If you're buying products in Belize, there's a one in three chance it says made in the USA or is imported from the USA. That's because according to the most recent figures available, AT September of 2009, the US accounted FOR 35% OF ALL Belizean imports and 31.9% of all exports.
And today that largesse was on display at the Made In The USA exhibit. The invitation to free and fair trade was underscored in opening remarks by the United States Ambassador to Belize, His Excellency, Vinai Thummalapally.
H.E. Vinai Thummalapally, United States Ambassador to Belize
"At the fifth summit of the Americas, President Obama stated: there are no Senior or Junior partners in the Americas, We are simply partners."
Says the working business relationship between Belize and the USA, can help drive economic expansion in the wider region.
The made in the USA exhibit is designed to promote private companies, private enterprise and commercial exchange between the two countries.
H.E. Vinai Thummalapally, United States Ambassador to Belize
"Here in this hall is where Belizean and American entrepreneurs and consumers can make contacts and solidify business relationships, best of all attendees can get samples of products made in the USA."
Thumalapally says a thriving international commerce translates into prosperity for both countries, by improving the chances of job prospects, more choices for the Belizean consumer, and increased contacts with larger markets.
H.E. Vinai Thummalapally, United States Ambassador to Belize
"This exhibit gives…Belizean entrepreneurs a chance to make personal connections with minimal travel and expense. We hope that these connections will promote our economic partnership with Belize."
President of Belize's largest private sector organization, the Belize Chamber of Commerce says a large segment of its membership enjoys robust commercial trade with the U.S.
Kay Menzies, President, BCCI
"A major part of the chamber's focus is of course trade and we continue to view the United States as a key partner in Belize's efforts to develop beyond trade and goods and services however, Belize like any other country must rely on foreign direct investment in order to grow its economy. As things get tighter within our economy FDI becomes increasingly necessary for recovery. Knowing this that other countries are competing with us it is imperative that we make ourselves the most attractive candidate in the region for such investment."
John Burks, President, American Chamber of Commerce Belize
"An environment which fosters foreign confidence and investment is beneficial to all."
There are more than a dozen exhibits on display on the 5th floor of the Radisson Villa Wing, and the two day exhibit ends tomorrow.
