Vanuabalavu Expo to Boost Local Economy, Foster Trade

The islands of Vanuabalavu and nearby communities are set with activities from July 9 to 11, as the Vanuabalavu Expo unfolds.

This event, a continuation of the Vanuabalavu Day Festival’s efforts, aims to connect the private and public sectors with islanders, providing a marketplace for goods and services that are otherwise challenging to access in these remote areas.

Organising committee member Tomi Finau says the objective of the expo is to bridge the gap between island producers and potential buyers.

“Islanders, who often struggle to market their produce, such as handicrafts, agricultural products, livestock, and produce from the sea, will now have a platform to showcase their products. This initiative not only fosters trade but also supports women in business, encourages youth entrepreneurship, and hosts a careers fair for high school students.”

The idea for the expo, he said, originated from a group of Lauans in Suva who recognised the lack of goods and services in the maritime islands.

“The first Lau Island Tradeshow in 2005 was a significant success, but rising costs eventually reduced it financially unsustainable.”

Participants

Mr Finau says the expo will feature participants from the private and public sectors.

“Merchant Finance is among the confirmed exhibitors, bringing financial products directly to the islanders. Other businesses and Government departments, such as Births, Deaths and Marriages, FRCS (TIN), and Voter Card services, are expected to join, providing essential services that islanders usually need to travel to Suva to access.”

He said the expo promised a diverse array of exhibitors, adding the participation of these organisations not only highlighted the economic potential of the islands but also addresses the essential needs of the communities.

Activities

A highlight of the event is the Vanuabalavu Women’s Expo, running alongside the main expo.

This platform he said encouraged and supports women in business, offering them a space to showcase their handicrafts and other goods.

“It represents a unique opportunity to support and celebrate the contributions of women to their families and communities.”

The careers fair would provide Year 12 and 13 students from Adi Maopa Secondary School with information about employment opportunities in various sectors.

Organisers have planned and made arrangements for accommodation and meals available for registered participants.

Mr Finau said the expo aimed to build a robust economy on the island, promoting sustainable development and improving the quality of life for its residents.

Sponsorship

According to Mr Finau, the expo is supported by Vanuabalavu Vision Ltd, and Interlink Shipping, which operates a monthly government franchise trip to Northern Lau.

Organisers for the Vanuabalavu Expo are calling for more buyers of agro-produce to participate, ensuring that the economic benefits of the expo are maximized.

Interested suppliers and participants can contact Tomi Finau at; Tomi.Finau@vanuabalavuvision.com.fj or via mobile at 7778945 and 9767588.

The three day expo will take place in Lomolomo.

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