Malawi chamber of commerce, Smea positive about May 22 trade fair

Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI) says it is optimistic that this year’s international trade fair will meet its objective and have a good patronage.

Speaking in an interview ahead of the impending international trade fair scheduled to take place from May 22 to 31 at the Chichiri Trade Fair Grounds, MCCCI head of membership service and communication Enid Mauluka said the chamber is expecting a sizeable turnout of participants this year.

“Last year’s turnout was not impressive, probably because of the May elections, but this year, we are expecting a better and bigger turnout. So far, over 60 pavilions have been taken and we are receiving inquires every day, an indication that people are geared for the event,” she said.

She said the chamber plans to host a dinner during the event, where it plans to invite the Kenyan ambassador as the guest speaker.

“We have themed the event Intergration Night, in line with the theme of this years’ fair,” Mauluka said.

She further said the chamber has also partnered mobile service provider, TNM, in organising a cocktail that will take place at the fair venue to create a platform for networking among participants.

According to Mauluka, the fair this year will have a children’s corner, a playground designed to host children while their parents and guardians are shopping.

Two countries, Kenya and India, have since confirmed their participation while three others, Mozambique, Tanzania and Zimbabwe, have made inquiries and are expected to confirm soon.

Small and Medium Enterprises Association (Smea) president James Chiutsi says the association hopes to network and click deals with both local and international participants.