A commended initiative by entrepreneurs

February marked the first-ever BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Expo and International Trade and Tourism Conference in the North West Province since amalgamation of South Africa to this federation in 2010. The North West Province through the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) saw an opportunity and a need to present the provinces’ economic profile to the BRIC countries by hosting the expo, seeking to attract business and investments that will contribute significantly to the economy of the province.
Enterprises across the province, from Africa and some of the BRIC countries such as Slate Classics, J & KD Catering and Services cc, Nare Travel and Tours: North West Province, Zimbabwean Tourism Sector, Incredible India and Zhongren Industrial Co.ltd: China came to establish business relationships, exhibit their products, services and discover how they can expand their market. Amongst others were local municipalities, various departments and agencies in the province.
A marquee tent erected for exhibitions was full and beautified by various exhibited products. Simple, short and random interviews were done to hear from the exhibitors about their views of the expo. The BRICS Expo as commended by entrepreneurs themselves is really a great initiative for unlocking business opportunities and investment for them and the province.
In responding to the question posed to them about their views on the Expo, the interviewed entrepreneurs shared the same sentiment of gratitude to the Department for hosting such a prestigious event. When being asked about people’s responses towards their products, without hesitation they were elated by the response and interaction they had with people who visited their stalls. Enterprises exhibiting such as clothing of various kinds, style and material, various artworks, including wine manufactures even managed to sell some of their products they were showcasing during exhibitions. These enterprises have a hope that this initiative will bear fruitful results for themselves and the economy of the province. They also wish it would be hosted in the North West Province, in future.