Gambia Trade Fair Attracts New International Exhibitors
The 13th International Trade Fair underway at the Independence Stadium in Bakau has so far attracted new international participants who are exhibiting their goods and services at the annual even.
Among them is ASCOF-SUD, an association of women entrepreneur in Senegal’s southern region of Casamance. It’s Secretary General, Alimatou Cheikh Diya Dieme told The Chronicle that the idea of participating in the trade fair for the first time was build partnership with Gambian businesses and exchange ideas with them.
ASCOF-SUD took part in last year’s Dakar International Trade Fair in the Senegalese capital.
“Coming to the Gambia for the first time as an association is to explore the market,” Ms. Dieme said. “It is a great opportunity for US to build partnership with other businesses in the Gambia, especially those with associations who may see our products and want to partner with us.”
She however complained about the ‘high cost’ of stalls and called on the organizers to make the cost reasonable for international players in order to attract them to come back.
Another new comer is Wael Torkey, an Egyptian businessman who has been exhibiting products such Egyptian scarves, sitting room products, perfumes and jewelries. In the 13th trade fair, he is hoping for a new market for his products.
Mr. Torkey attended the recent Egyptian Trade Fair held at the Westfield Youth Monument. His curiosity about the Gambia as a potential market started from there. He described Gambian people as kind and accommodating. “We expect to build strong network with businesses and also make customers appreciate Egyptian products.”
Fatima Zie Dankha, a businesswoman from Burkina Faso has also brought international dimension to the trade fair. She’s the head of the Association of Business Women of Burkina Faso (AFAB). She’s showcasing Burkina Faso’s traditional clothes and other products.
She’s using the trade fair to also showcase Burkina Faso’s rich culture, and she’s already sure that she’ll attend next year’s trade fair.
