Organizers of the Trade and Investment Convention 2009 report record registration of international buyers for this year’s event, even in the face of economic hard times. The convention will be held at the Centre of Excellence in Trinidad from June 24-27, 2009. In light of the surprise registrations, organizers conducted a poll of buyers and discovered that international buyers are seeking out new suppliers because of the economic recession. They are actively looking for new competitive sources of raw materials, products and services to help get through the recession as well as position themselves for the future.

Last year’s event drew buyers from 30 countries while this year has 39 registered buyers so far. These are prequalified businesses that are actively seeking new products and suppliers. Most countries of the Caribbean will be attending and several new countries will be coming from Africa including South Africa and Niger. Asia is sending contingents from China, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. In addition, participants from the U.S., UK, France, and Canada will attend. Central and Latin America will be represented by Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Panama, and Uruguay. Trinidad and Tobago are in an ideal location as a North-South business hub for the Western hemisphere.

The Trade and Investment Convention requires participants to be registered to carry on business at their event. They offer matchmaking and networking services to help connect exhibitors with international buyers. Buyers include corporate and industrial purchasers, agents, distributors, importers, wholesalers and retailers from both the private and public sectors.

This year will be the 10^th anniversary of the Trade and Investment Convention. It is sponsored by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, TSTT and First Citizens.