11TH European Development Fund Implementation Report 2017- 2023

vi) Export Promotion The 11th EDF programme has played a pivotal role in facilitating CARIFORUM companies' participation in 19 diverse regional and international trade shows. As a result of this concerted effort, a significant 55% of surveyed participants successfully converted leads generated from tradeshow engagement into tangible sales or partnerships. Moreover, an impressive 72% reported their ability to either venture into new markets or expand their footprint in existing export markets. Integral to effective export promotion is the amplification of brand awareness. Following their participation at these tradeshows, a noteworthy 66% of respondents acknowledged a marked increase in their brand visibility. This uptick underscores the tangible impact of programme initiatives in elevating the recognition and reputation of Brand Caribbean on the global stage. These outcomes not only validate the efficacy of participation in trade exhibitions but also underscore the critical role of strategic support in fostering market expansion and brand recognition. These collaborative efforts empower CARIFORUM companies to seize new opportunities, forge fruitful partnerships, and amplify their presence in key export markets, thereby driving sustained growth and competitiveness across the region.

Table 3: Regional and International Tradeshows Attend by CARIFORUM Firms Funded Under the 11th EDF RPSDP

Name of event

Sectors of focus

Date

Location # of CARIFORUM companies participating

CARIFESTA XIII

Fashion, Spa Wellness

August 2017

Barbados

10

ANUGA

Food and Beverage

October 2017

Germany

7

Agroalimentaria

Food and Beverage

May 2017

Dominican Republic

8

International Fair of Havana (FIHAV)

Light manufacturing

October 30 –

Cuba

12

November 3, 2017

Trade and Investment Convention (TIC)

Light manufacturing

July 2018

Trinidad and

10

Tobago

SIAL Paris

Food and Beverage

October 2018

France

11

Agroalimentaria

Food and Beverage

May 2019

Dominican Republic

4

Jamaica International Expo

Food and Beverage

May 30, June 1, 2019

4

BMEX

Fashion

June, 2019

Barbados

17

CARIFESTA XIV

Fashion

August, 2019

Trinidad and

7 businesses represented by 1 participant

Tobago

4th CARIFORUM EU Business Forum

Agro-processing, Creative Industries, Investment Promotion

September, 2019

Germany

93 Businesses

(30 BSOs)

Moda Market

Fashion

October 2019

Jamaica

9

Food Matters Live (Virtual)

Food and beverage

October 2020

UK

422

Food Matters Live (Virtual)

Food and Beverage

June 2021

UK

7

Annecy Film Festival

Animation

June 2022

France

10

Trade and Investment Convention (TIC)

Light manufacturing

July 2022

Trinidad and

5

Tobago

SIAL Paris

Food and Beverage

October 2022

France

14

Speciality and Fine Food Fair

Food and Beverage

September 2022

UK

10

Autumn Fair Moda

Fashion

September 2022

9

Implementation of the 11th European Development Fund (EDF) Regional Private Sector Development Programme (RPSDP)

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