Trade show to India has hit the road

We know that. Was a feasibility study done? We do not know that. That is for big business to know, which may be why the business community is well represented at this show. I did not say “pappyshow” at least, not me.

It boggles the mind to contemplate the teeming millions of India waiting excitedly for the representatives of one and a bit million souls to see how we can be of mutual advantage to each others economies.

At this point in time, we have only been able to invite a few intrepid salesmen to bring their goods for barter at prices the local trades people do not like. Not everyone rolls over with delight when they spread their tents. Apart from the lucrative agreement to provide CDAP drugs, what else can they sell, that we may get at a bargain price? Only technological expertise for which other countries can give them better deals, maybe a few extra cheap lap top computers for the school children.

As a tourism destination it’s only the extremely wealthy who will veer off their chosen routes to take a peep at TT. They are accoustomed to Dubai, Monte Carlo, the Seychelles, the Maldives, Singapore and Sydney. We don’t have the tourism infrastructure that would appeal to the very sophisticated tastes of the Indian multi-billionaire.

The man in the street in India may be interested in re-locating in order to better an arduous life. We are reportedly under siege from Nigeria, Guyana, and other islands of Caricom who see us as the Promised Land and are swelling the coffers of the private security firms, even as we speak.

We also have some free loaders, who for years have been occupying state lands, are now asking for retention walls, pipe borne water and electricity to their homes. Some deserve the help but there are many who have placed themselves where everybody will pass in the rush and “get something.” They have an endless supply of old tyres to burn to emphasise the poverty of their condition in a land flowing with milk and honey. But I am digressing. The trade show has hit the road and we must support the Prime Minister. This is what is expected of all loyal Trinbagonians regardless of party in power.

And remember, just because the PNM is still waiting for significant benefits from their own dramatic conferences, we have to bear in mind that “Seepaul luck is not Gopaul luck.”

Lynette Joseph

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