The 17th annual Saint Lucia-Taiwan Partnership Trade Show concluded on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024, after three days of showcasing a variety of goods and services. Saint Lucian and Taiwanese businesses engaged in networking, highlighting the potential for economic growth and collaboration.
Wide Range of Products and Businesses
This year’s trade show featured 65 Saint Lucian businesses and 14 Taiwanese companies. The event offered a diverse selection of products, including water purification systems, multi-purpose cleaners, machine learning technologies, fashion items, soaps, handbags, pepper sauces, wines, rums, and furniture.
Three Taiwanese companies—Hydrosep, Sparkamplify, and St. Pioneer—participated in person, presenting products like liquid filtration systems, AI tools, and water filters.
Official Opening Ceremony
The trade show opened at The Pavilion on the Ramp in Rodney Bay on Oct. 31, 2024. Taiwan’s Ambassador to Saint Lucia, Peter Chia-Yen Chen, explained that the Ministry of Commerce and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) carefully selected participants to present high-quality offerings to potential buyers.
Ambassador Chen noted that the event has evolved, becoming more competitive with over 100 companies applying this year. He credited the growth to the ambition of Saint Lucia’s small and medium-sized enterprises.
Strengthening Economic Ties
Ambassador Chen thanked Commerce Minister Hon. Emma Hippolyte and her team for their support. He expressed optimism about the future of economic relations between Saint Lucia and Taiwan.
“With the support of Hon. Philip J. Pierre, Minister Hippolyte, and all the Cabinet Ministers present today, I believe the 17th Saint Lucia-Taiwan Partnership Trade Show will serve as a catalyst for stronger economic ties, deeper friendship, and continued progress between our two countries,” Chen said.
Embracing Innovation and Business Growth
The trade show, themed “Innovate, Integrate, Inspire — Shaping the Future of Business,” coincided with the start of Business Month. Minister Hippolyte emphasized the importance of the partnership between Saint Lucia and Taiwan in boosting Saint Lucia’s competitiveness in trade.
“This year’s trade show celebrates an enduring collaboration between our two great nations,” Hippolyte said. She highlighted Taiwan’s support for government programs like the Youth Economy Agency and the MSME Loan-Grant Facility, which have fostered new entrepreneurs.
Focus on Global Competitiveness
Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre, a featured speaker at the opening, encouraged entrepreneurs to adopt a global perspective. He stressed the need to produce world-class goods and services, noting the talent and commitment of Saint Lucians.
“We have to think of producing the best products that can compete with products anywhere in the world,” Pierre said. He advised business owners to familiarize themselves with key legislation, such as the Credit Reporting Act and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Act, which can guide their business strategies.
Government Commitment to Youth and Innovation
Pierre announced increased investment in the Youth Economy and small businesses, citing the innovative ideas of young entrepreneurs as a driving force for economic growth.
“I am excited by the young people…and the business ideas they have,” he stated. “Government will invest more heavily in the Youth Economy and small and medium-sized enterprises.”
Cultural Highlights and Engaging Events
The opening ceremony featured musical performances by the Royal Saint Lucia Police Band, students from Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, and the Sparkle Legends Dance Group. Sly, the 2024 Groovy Soca Monarch, closed the event with his hit “Damn Proud Lucian.” A tour of the booths followed, allowing attendees to interact with exhibitors.
Dignitaries present included Hon. Alva Baptiste, Minister for External Affairs; Hon. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, Minister for Public Service; Attorney General Leslie Mondesir; and various international representatives.
Showcasing Culinary Arts and Technology
The trade show featured several key events. Renowned Chef Orlando conducted a culinary demonstration using ingredients from the Taiwan Technical Mission’s farm. An AI forum titled “From Personalization to Productivity — Harness AI Potential for Global Success” took place at Bay Gardens Beach Resorts. The event also included a karaoke session and a fashion show, adding to the entertainment lineup.
Promoting Bilateral Trade
The Taiwan Image Area attracted significant interest with its innovative products and technologies. According to Taiwan’s customs data, trade with Saint Lucia reached $1.273 million in 2023. Organizers hope this trend will continue, promoting bilateral trade and mutual development.
The 17th Saint Lucia-Taiwan Partnership Trade Show highlighted the strength of the economic and cultural ties between the two nations, showcasing opportunities for future growth and collaboration.
Source/Photo: Government of Saint Lucia (via govt.lc)
