Local manufacturers will not be compromised.
That assurance was given earlier today by Chief Executive Officer of the Barbados Agricultural Society James Paul as he announced that manufacturers from Trinidad, Guyana, Tobago and Jamaica are interested in participating in Agrofest 2015.
Speaking at the official launch of the event at the Divi Southwinds Resort, Paul said: “At Agrofest we promote local products first. Agrofest is becoming so popular that overseas manufacturers are expressing an interest in attending it to showcase their products.”
Ephna Hinkson of Pinnacle Feeds Ltd, (third left), hands over a sponsorship cheque to Agrofest 2015 Co-ordinator, Theodora Fraser (right), while President of the BAS, Carlyle Brathwaite (left), Christopher Brathwaite of Pinnacle Feeds Ltd, (second left) and CEO of the BAS, James Paul look on.
He said the event is second only to Crop Over on the island’s calendar of events, attracting as many as 60,000 patrons.
The CEO pointed out that Agrofest, which will be held in Queen’s Park, The City, aims to tighten the collaboration between leading farmers and schools.
“A farmer who lives in St Philip and is a known winner at Agrofest will be expected to help assist schools that are located in close proximity to the farm,” Paul said.
The BAS chief told his audience, which included director of Rural Development Randolph Outram and several members of the farming community, that the event will be held under the theme Inclusive Agriculture, Strengthening Linkages, Creating Synergies.
It is scheduled for February 27 to March 1, and has attracted some 300 exhibitors, so far.