The Taiwan Trade Fair has returned to local shores, having last visited in 2009 – an event that has even more significance, as it is taking place under the 30th anniversary celebrations of the diplomatic link between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Taiwan.{{more}}

The trade fair launched on Monday, August 15, and ran until Wednesday, August 17.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves thanked the Taiwanese government for its valued input into the development of SVG over the decades, and shared his hope that trade between the two nations would increase over time.

“Trade is really the important creator of wealth,” said Gonsalves.

“You can produce, but somebody has to buy it!”

He acknowledged that the distance between Taiwan and SVG hinders trade somewhat, but that it is not an impossible hurdle to overcome.

Gonsalves also said that according to data received from the Ministry of Trade, from 2006 – 2010, local food imports from Taiwan totalled EC$533.6m, and that work needs to be done on lowering that figure through increased local production.

“We have a lot of enterprising business people,” he pointed out.

The prime minister further stated that his government is willing to assist Vincentians in their quest to become business owners/entrepreneurs.

Leader of the Opposition Arnhim Eustace also delivered brief remarks.

He expressed a desire to see an increase in the revenue generated from trade between the two nations, and commended the Taiwanese for their assistance to SVG – especially in encouraging agricultural diversification.

“I want to encourage the mission in their work with the farmers,” said Eustace.

He also urged farmers to be receptive of the training that the Taiwanese offer, so that it will increase their skills, and ultimately increase their earnings.

Dr Douglas Slater, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Consumer Affairs, also delivered brief remarks.

He expressed a desire to see the relationship between SVG and Taiwan go from strength to strength in the future; and wished the visiting Taiwanese delegation success at the trade fair.

Taiwanese Charge d’Affaires Michael Lin delivered opening remarks, and introduced members of the visiting delegation who represented the companies being exhibited at the trade fair.(JV)