TRADE shows represent a pivotal opportunity for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to amplify their presence, forge meaningful connections and propel growth. These platforms serve as dynamic arenas where SMEs can exhibit their offerings, connect with industry peers and broaden their customer base. Beyond mere exposure, trade shows facilitate direct interaction with target audiences, enabling SMEs to glean real-time feedback, discern market trends and refine their strategies accordingly. Moreover, participation in these events empowers SMEs to benchmark against competitors, glean insights from industry leaders and stay abreast of sectoral advancements. By capitalizing on the manifold benefits offered by trade shows, SMEs can fortify their brand equity, cultivate strategic alliances and chart a course towards sustainable success.
A striking testament to the transformative potential of trade shows emerges from the inaugural food and agriculture expo in Pakistan, where 14 SMEs supported by the Growth for Rural Advancement and Sustainable Progress (GRASP) project secured orders exceeding $3.5 million. Presenting an array of agricultural ventures spanning diverse value chains—from dates to banana fibre and beyond—these SMEs illuminated the burgeoning export potential inherent in Pakistan’s agricultural landscape. Against the backdrop of over 600 exporters at the expo, this showcase underscored the vast vistas awaiting exploration in Pakistan’s export arena.
However, despite the undeniable benefits, rural companies may eschew participation in trade shows due to resource constraints, logistical hurdles and limited awareness. Operating within smaller scopes and with constrained resources, many rural businesses find it challenging to divert funds and manpower towards trade show endeavours. Moreover, geographical remoteness from urban trade hubs further compounds these challenges, impeding accessibility and amplifying logistical complexities. Yet, concerted efforts to bolster awareness and accessibility could bridge this gap, unlocking a wealth of growth opportunities and fostering collaboration within the rural business ecosystem.
Evidencing the transformative impact of strategic participation, the 4th Pakistan-Africa Trade Development Conference (PATDC) & Pakistan Single Country Exhibition (PSCE) in Cairo served as a beacon of economic diplomacy, catalyzing trade ties across the Middle East and North African (MENA) region. Facilitated by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and bolstered by support from the International Trade Centre’s (ITC) Global Alliances for Resilient and Sustainable Supply Chains (GRASP) program, this landmark event bore witness to the remarkable success of seven dynamic SMEs from Sindh and Balochistan.
Notable successes included Perfect Food Industries securing orders worth $1.56 million and Karachi Tea Company clinching orders valued at $240,000. Beyond immediate gains, the economic ripple effects were palpable, with estimated future commitments between ITC-supported exhibitors and buyers reaching a staggering $2.0 million. As these enterprises prepare to seize future global opportunities, their experiences in Cairo serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit and ingenuity of Pakistani SMEs on the international stage, poised to make waves with their resilience and innovation.
—The writer is contributing columnist.
