The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) in partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN) is leading 40 exhibitors to the Gambia International Trade Fair in Turntable Brusubi, Banjul.
The Executive Director of NEPC, Dr. Ezra Yakusak who disclosed this, said Nigeria’s participation at the Fair was sequel to NEPC and SMEDAN’s collaborative effort that led to organising the first Nigeria – Gambia Trade Exhibition in Banjul in October 2022.
Dr. Yakusak pointed out that the Fair which is scheduled for 18th February – 19th March 2023 is expected to attract exhibitors from different product categories such as cosmetics, agriculture, semi-processed, textiles and garments, leather and leather accessories, arts and crafts among other sectors.
He said, “I am optimistic that Nigeria’s participation at the 16th Edition of the Fair will create markets for Made-in-Nigeria products in the international market, enhance foreign exchange inflow into the Nigerian economy and further strengthen the economic ties between both countries.”
Dr. Yakusak explained that the resolve of both agencies of government was to provide Nigeria’s Micro, Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (MSMEs) the opportunity to participate at various international trade fairs and exhibitions to enable them to showcase their products and compete favourably in the international market.
The economy of the Gambia is heavily reliant on agriculture but has no significant mineral or other natural resources. About 75% of the population depends on crops and livestock for its livelihood. Small-scale manufacturing activity features the processing of peanuts, fish, and animal hides.
Since its establishment 47 years ago, the Council has promoted Made-in-Nigeria products ranging from manufactured, semi-processed agricultural and solid minerals in all the continents of the world.
