Africa-Press – Mauritius. The Ministry of Industrial Development, SMEs and Cooperatives organised a Regional Cooperative Market Fair, on Friday 01 December 2023 at the Farmers Service Centre in Goodlands, with the objective to promote the local craft.
The fair showcased a diverse array of products for sale, including crafts, agro-food products, textiles, plants, flowers, and jewellery, amongst others. The Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS), Mr Soobersingh Dhunoo, and other personalities were present at the opening ceremony.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Industrial Development, SMEs and Cooperatives, Mr Soomilduth Bholah, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Chandanee Jhowry, recalled that this market fair would be serving as a platform for some 75 local exhibitors to promote and sell their products.
She indicated that this initiative aims to foster the trade relations with existing clients as well as to solicit and attract new clients. Mrs Jhowry stressed the need to highlight Mauritian handmade products and expand the visibility of Mauritian cooperatives and entrepreneurs.
Additionally, she pointed out the importance of utilising the market fair to encourage the youth and women to broaden their creativity and shape their passion into their occupation.
In order to ensure this, the Ministry is organising regular cooperative fairs, she added. Furthermore, Mrs Jhowry appealed for the participation of the citizens as a sign of support to the local entrepreneurs.
She spoke of the direct contribution made to the country’s economy when purchasing a local product and how reliance on imports from foreign countries will decrease if local production is prioritised.
For his part, PPS Dhunoo stated that cooperatives are the best tool for building a better future and ensuring sustainable development for the population. Moreover, he spoke about the growing number of programmes designed to ease access to new technologies, finances, and markets.
According to the PPS, cooperatives have experienced a remarkable resurgence thanks to Government support and various initiatives undertaken since December 2014.
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