By The Caribbean Camera Inc. on September 22, 2024
The Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA) is preparing for a significant trade mission to Canada from September 24th to 27th, 2024. This event aims to connect leading companies from Trinidad and Tobago with Canadian businesses, fostering new partnerships, exploring business opportunities, and expanding international trade.
Ish Ali, Trade Officer and Trade Mission Coordinator for TTMA, emphasized the mission’s significance, stating, “This is the first time we’re organizing something of this scale in Canada. We’ve noticed increased trade movement within our diaspora, and we believe that medium and small companies can find their own niche markets here.” Ali explained that through consultants and the council office, they have reached out to businesses in Canada to assist in matchmaking, aiming to facilitate successful partnerships.
The mission will be led by Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Ms. Paula Gopee-Scoon, demonstrating strong government backing for this initiative. A delegation of 22 companies will be participating under the CTM umbrella, representing a diverse range of sectors, including chemicals, logistics, packaging, and cosmetics. Notable participants include Angostura, Sacha Cosmetics, and Kairi Chocolate.
One of the mission’s primary objectives is to facilitate business-to-business (B2B) meetings between Trinidadian companies and potential buyers and distributors in Canada. TTMA has enlisted the help of consultants, such as Mr. Ryan Elcock, to organize these critical interactions. The event will take place at the Holiday Inn Mississauga Toronto West, where companies will engage in B2B meetings tailored to their business interests.
In addition to the B2B meetings, a highlight of the mission is a cocktail networking event on September 25th at the Consular Office of Trinidad and Tobago in Toronto. This gathering aims to provide a relaxed setting for building relationships and exploring collaborative ventures, with hopes of establishing this mission as a yearly initiative in North America.
TTMA’s focus on diversifying trade and finding niche markets for Trinidadian companies in Canada aligns with their broader strategy of expanding international trade. With plans for future annual events, including a mission to New York next year, this initiative represents a significant opportunity for businesses from both countries to engage, learn, and grow.
The TTMA Trade Mission to Canada is set to open doors for new trade relationships and economic growth, with its mix of participating sectors from logistics to cosmetics. Interested parties can contact the TTMA representatives or the Trinidad and Tobago Consulate General for more information or to register for the event.
Source: The Caribbean Camera