|
| |
Contact:
Julita Peter
Monday October 20, 2008 – A trade exhibition which was held earlier in
October, is expected to serve as a catalyst to galvanize local entrepreneurs
into the new paradigm of development and competition. The exhibition was
organized jointly by the Taiwan Embassy and the Ministry of Trade in Saint
Lucia.
Approximately twenty Taiwanese business representatives teamed up with local
businesses, at the Gaiety on Rodney Bay. The exhibition was designed primarily
to generate commercial activity between the Republic of China on Taiwan and
Saint Lucia, by showcasing the varied products and services of the two
countries. Among the exhibits were electronics, liquor, food processing
equipment, condiments, clothing and carpentry.
Noting his ministry's commitment to providing further assistance to the local
business sector, Trade Minister Honourable Rufus Bousquet said the exhibition
signalled a major shift in the relationship between Saint Lucia and Taiwan.
He added that while the island was receiving lots of assistance from the
Republic of China on Taiwan in the areas of agriculture, aquaculture,
scholarships and computer donations, the time had come for the business sector
to delve into unexplored areas.
“The projections for growth for the global economy are not favourable, and this
is what compels our government to find new ways in bringing greater impetus into
the private sector. This trade exhibition is one of such activity,” Mr. Bousquet
said.
Export continues to be main driving force behind Taiwan's economy, with the
country realizing over four hundred billion United States dollars in foreign
trade in 2007, making it the 16th largest trading nation globally.
Taiwanese Ambassador to Saint Lucia, His Excellency Tom Chou said joint business
efforts will benefit the economy of Saint Lucia, Taiwan and the Caribbean as a
whole.
“We know that Saint Lucia has a lot of talented businessmen, and if you give
them a chance they will prosper very quickly. This is why we organized the first
Taiwan-Saint Lucia trade exhibition,” he added.
Ambassador Chou noted that his country's successful international trade is
hinged on good quality, good strategy and good entrepreneurial spirit.
|
