Conversations sparked during the Independence Business Expo have already begun translating into tangible opportunities for local businesses, according to Export Saint Lucia, which hosted the event as part of the island’s 47th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
The expo brought together nearly 100 Saint Lucian businesses and entrepreneurs from sectors including manufacturing, services, hospitality, and agro-processing, providing a platform to showcase their products while engaging directly with regional and international buyers.
Held under the theme “Douvan Ansanm,” the event connected overseas buyers from key markets with local manufacturers and producers seeking to expand their reach beyond the domestic market.
Among the international participants was Zaheer Mohammed, owner and distributor of KM Imports in Canada, who attended the expo to explore potential partnerships and sourcing opportunities for Saint Lucian products.
According to Chief Executive Officer of Export Saint Lucia, Sunita Daniel, the initiative was designed to create real market connections for local businesses. “This expo is about creating meaningful connections where results are not just spoken about but achieved. By bringing our businesses together with international buyers, we are opening new opportunities for Saint Lucian products to reach external markets.”
Participants presented a wide range of locally produced goods, including agro-processed items, specialty foods, manufactured products, and service offerings. Organizers say the presence of buyers representing international retail outlets and distributors created valuable opportunities for direct discussions about supply and export potential.
Daniel noted that the interest shown by overseas buyers highlighted the growing competitiveness of Saint Lucian products. “Buyers were impressed by the quality, innovation, and potential of what our local producers have to offer,” she said.
Export Saint Lucia says initiatives such as the Independence Business Expo form part of its broader strategy to strengthen export development and increase the international visibility of Saint Lucian goods.
As the organization reflected on the successful staging of the event, it also acknowledged the role played by exhibitors, partners, sponsors, and stakeholders whose participation contributed to its impact.
Daniel says the expo demonstrated how collaboration between businesses, institutions, and international partners can support the continued growth of Saint Lucia’s export sector.
