Gopee-Scoon: Govt to pursue Cuban market

“The Cuban market is of particular interest. Many of you will join me as we participate in the 2016 Havana International Fair (FIHAV) which takes place next month. We are actively seeking to ensure the establishment of a line of credit to support our country’s exports to Cuba.” Gopee-Scoon was speaking at the launch of the Trade and Investment Convention (TIC) 2017 yesterday (Wednesday) at the House of Angostura, Eastern Main Road, Laventille.

Referring to Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley’s address to the nation last Sunday (September 11), in which he said “it is about seizing opportunities and creating a more acceptable and sustained standard of living for all’, Gopee-Scoon declared that TIC 2017 “presents a perfect platform” to do so.

TIC 2017 will be held from July 6 to 9, 2017 at the Centre Of Excellence, Macoya. Registration information can be found at http:// ttma.com/tic/ “These types of conventions are very relevant in today’s economic climate and particularly for our country, as we seek to increase revenues from the non-energy sector...

I wish to reaffirm the (Government’s) commitment...to assisting manufacturers to penetrate new markets; beyond CARICOM, via implementation of a national export strategy, trade facilitation, negotiation of market access, trade diplomacy and Government to Government arrangements.” The Trade Minister argued that while external factors are largely outside of our control, a lot can be done to strengthen TT’s capabilities.

“TT must become known for its world class products. We must focus on standards and the production of zero-defect products.

We must work together to make the ‘Trinidad and Tobago’ brand synonymous with quality and reliability,” she said.

The TIC is a production of the TT Manufacturers Association (TTMA), whose President, Dr Rolph Balgobin, said the theme of the upcoming 18th edition of TIC is “From TT to the World” and the experience that is TIC epitomises this philosophy.

“TIC is not just about finding customers, but also about finding investors and helping to match capital with opportunities...

TIC2016 attracted over 300 international buyers and with over 10,000 business attendees over the four-day period. In the past 17 years the TIC has facilitated over $600 million in trade and fostered lucrative business connections,” Balgobin stated.