The Central Regional Minister, Hon. Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, has urged stakeholders to make exhibitors’ business growth a top priority in the region, stressing that trade fairs must deliver lasting economic impact beyond the event.

He made the call during the official launch of the 2026 Central Regional investment, trade and tourism fair dubbed, "Celebrating 5 Years of Advancing Trade, Promoting Tourism and Unlocking Opportunities" at the Central Regional Coordinating Council in Cape Coast, which brought together government officials, business leaders, and entrepreneurs from across the region.

“Let’s prioritize exhibitors’ business growth, the Expo should not end with product displays. We must ensure that every business that mounts a stand here leaves with market links, access to finance, and practical support to expand.” he emphasized.

Hon. Eduamoah tasked organizers, trade agencies, and financial institutions to develop structured follow-up systems for exhibitors which includes, development training, buyer-seller meetings, and tailored credit facilities to help SMEs scale-up after the Expo.

Hon. Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah noted that the Central Region has strong potential in agro-processing, tourism, textiles, and crafts which needs practical exposure to thrive in the ecosystem of the country.

At the program was the Omanhene of the Oguaa Traditional Council, Osabarima Dr. Kwesi Atta II, who charged that five years is enough to show the world what the region produces and its pedestal. 

He remarked that the exhibitors must embrace digital form of communication to transact their businesses so to boost the quest for their target in the open market.

Consultant for the Expo, Mr. Kofi Yankah, touched on the challenges in the last four exhibitions organized, as the exhibitors bemoaned on low publicity and patronage in their businesses.

He assured that this year's event promises to feature activities such as entertainment shows, eating competition, awards scheme, blood donation, health walk, reduced or free rental space for consistent exhibitors in the past years and others, so as to create awareness and increase participation in the trade fair.

Sompaonline.com//Eric Annan