GRi Business 26-02-99

Accra (Greater Accra), 26 Feb.

The second ECOWAS Trade Fair opened in Accra on Friday with signals that the regional grouping which, hitherto, has been bogged down by political issues, is now poised for trade and commerce.

The fair, opened by Togolese Premier, Mr Kwassi Klutse, is to give real meaning to the economic objectives of the group with emphasis on economic development through trade among its 16 nations.

Premier Klutse stood in for Togolese President Gnassingbe Eyadema, Chairman of the regional grouping.

The 10-day fair is on the theme: "Economic Integration through Trade." Records have indicated a low volume of trade among ECOWAS states, about 10 per cent, of the trade with Europe. It, therefore, became necessary to sensitise member countries to boost trade with each other and thus contribute to the development of the people in the sub-region, says ECOWAS secretary-general, Lansana Kouyate in his address at the opening.

The ceremony, which was marked with colour, attracted dignitaries like Vice-President John Evans Atta Mills, trade ministers as well as senior government officials from Ghana and other member countries.

Premier Klutse, Vice-President Mills and secretary-general Kouyate jointly hoisted the fair flag and cut the tape to officially launch it.

Participating are some 615 companies from the sub-region and a host of others from the international community. Items on display include machinery, agricultural products and tools, food and beverages, cosmetics, textiles and clothing. Also on the stands are leather products, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, iron and steel products, as well as services. While some exhibitors' stands were ready with wares displayed on them for the opening ceremony, others were busily putting finishing touches to their structures.

Some manufacturers and exhibitors blamed the delay on clearance at the entry points. They however, expressed optimism that the fair would be a great success.