More than 100 businesses are using the 20th Annual Agro and Trade Fair in Essequibo to showcase their products, connect with customers and pursue new markets.
Hosted by the Essequibo Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the Anna Regina Secondary School ground, the expo has brought together small entrepreneurs, established companies, consumers and potential investors.
Approximately 20,000 patrons are expected to attend, offering exhibitors valuable exposure that many small businesses may struggle to generate independently.
The products and services on display span agro-processing, manufacturing, construction, technology and craft, reflecting the growing diversity of Region Two’s business sector.
Among the exhibitors is Ganesh Jaigobon of G&P Products, whose booth uses giveaways and interactive activities to introduce patrons to the company’s products.
Georgetown-based El-Faatyma Unique Creations is also using the event to reach new customers with its everlasting bouquets and woven craft pieces.
Meanwhile, Pauline Mentis of Pauline Dried Thyme received sponsorship from the Small Business Bureau to display her products and interact directly with potential customers.
For these entrepreneurs, the expo is more than a place to sell. It provides an opportunity to receive customer feedback, strengthen brand recognition and establish connections that could lead to future contracts and partnerships.
The Guyana Office for Investment is also sponsoring five small businesses to participate, helping emerging entrepreneurs promote their products in a competitive marketplace.
ECCI Coordinator Teakaram Singh said the Chamber is pleased with the response to the anniversary event, which has attracted businesses from Region Two and other parts of Guyana.
He explained that the organisation’s work extends beyond the annual expo, with a focus on networking, strengthening business capacity and creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Revenue generated through ECCI activities, Singh said, will be reinvested in initiatives benefiting the region’s business community.
The Chamber is also pursuing plans for a permanent office that would serve as a central point for businesses and improve the support it provides throughout the year.
Regional Chairman Devin Mohan said the expo’s continued growth reflects Region Two’s expanding commercial potential.
He identified agriculture, construction, manufacturing, commerce and emerging green industries as areas generating new economic opportunities. Mohan also pointed to projects such as the Lima Regional Development, a major solar farm and the Anna Regina National Stadium.
“Development is no longer a promise; it is happening,” he said.
Delivering the feature address at Friday’s opening, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, said the expo’s growth mirrors the wider economic changes taking place across Region Two.
He highlighted investments in infrastructure and transportation, including improvements to ferry services across the Essequibo River, which he said are critical to moving people, goods and services and helping businesses reach larger markets.
Dr Singh also praised the Chamber for sustaining the event over two decades and bringing together more than 100 exhibitors.
He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to investing in Region Two and creating the conditions for businesses and entrepreneurs to grow.
