Hibiscus Collections is one of 31 booths that will be showcased over the two days. Photo: VINO

From left to right - Linnet Baa, a booth owner; Premier O'Neal, Dr. Harrigan and Grant moments after the Trade Expo was declared opened.

The trade show wraps up on Saturday, October 29, 2011.

The booth, which exhibits a wide range of Maybelline cosmetics, is one of 31 local booths that is opened for business.

Rhea Kelly told Virgin Islands News Online that customers would have free makeovers and giveaways when they make a purchase.

“Persons are under the impression that Maybelline is expensive but when they visit us they will see how inexpensive it is,” she said.

Head under the theme “Go Local”, the trade show is organised by the BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA).

Premier Ralph T O’Neal officially declared the trade show open, but not before offering his apologies for the slow pace in which trade licenses are given out. He admitted everywhere he goes he hears complaints from residents, who have expressed their dissatisfaction.

“I know that the Trade Department has come under fire...We are trying to ensure that these things are dealt with promptly and in future you will not have to wait so long to get a trade license because in some instances, you cannot start your business unless you have your trade license. So the delay in one thing can cause difficulty in the other. So I hope you will forgive us and that things will be better,” he told booth owners, who responded with an applause.

He also pledged that Government would continue to work with the farmers so that more local produce could be grown in the Virgin Islands.

Meanwhile, Chairman of BVICCHA Dr. Bernie Harrigan implored the Premier to look into the cost of freight, customs duty and insurance because the cost of doing business in the VI is "tough". She also called for a stronger partnership between the public and private sector, and commended the businesses who are participating because “this translates to more customers.”

Also giving brief remarks was Trefor Grant, Chairman of the Trade Expo, who expressed his gratitude to the Premier for making the trade show a reality this year. “Without the Premier’s Office the trade show would not have been possible,” he disclosed.

The businesses taking part in this year’s Expo include Al’s Marine Ltd.; Peter Island Resort & Spa; H. Lavity Stoutt Community College; Burkes Garage Ltd.; Bella Blooms; BVICCHA; Green VI; Unique Surfaces Ltd.; Wellness Centre; Digicel; Myetts; Tortola General Services; LIME; National Parks Trust; Tropical Shipping; 1First Bank; Tortola Toastmasters Club; Parts and Power; Gift World/Virgin Voices; Caribbean Cellars; Carib Supply (Tortola) Limited; Lazarus Services Ltd.; ABC Plumbing Supplies & Services; Nail Bay Resort; Tortola Expres; Scrub Island Resort & Spa and Road Town Wholesale Trading Ltd.

The Expo wraps up at 8pm this evening. As for tomorrow Saturday October 29, 2011 it will open from 10 am until 7 pm.

Additionally, there will be entertainment provided by Luther B, Sista Joyce, Quida among others.