The Tribune

More than 300 international delegates attended the first-ever Bahamas International Investment and Business Forum, participating in two days of intensive discussions on potential investment opportunities in the Bahamas - particularly Grand Bahama.

Ssponsored jointly by the Government, Commonwealth Business Council and the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA), the forum attracted attendees from more than 27 countries.

Ian Fair, the GBPA’s chairman, said that during international travels it was not unusual to encounter persons who were unaware of the many advantages and concessions Grand Bahama offers to potential investors.

“We are very happy to partner in presenting a conference of this magnitude because it is important to get the word out regarding all that Grand Bahama has to offer,” he said.

Speaking specifically to the diversity of those in attendance, Mr Fair added: “Tthe level of support we’ve received from attendees has been phenomenal.

“Government ministers from neighbouring Caribbean countries like the Dominican Republic have outlined key areas of interest between our two nations. Additionally, several banking institutions and capital providers were on hand, seeking active investments to support.”

Responding to a call issued by the Prime Minister during Wednesday’s keynote address, the GBPA is aiming to lend its support to making the business and investment forum an annual fixture on the island’s calendar.

“Obviously, there is keen interest on an international level regarding Grand Bahama’s potential,” Mr Fair said.

“Interested investors see opportunities that exist due to the island’s strategic location and modern infrastructure, and are eager to pursue opportunities within trade and investment, financial services, maritime, niche tourism, IT and other markets.”

Cnference delegates were also able to engage in informal networking discussions during several GBPA-sponsored social events at the Grand Lucayan Resort.

The recent visit of more than 1,000 communications industry workers from Italy, followed by this week’s international business forum, have provided much-needed business for hoteliers and service providers on Grand Bahama.

“Our commitment to offering support to the government and private sector agencies has never been stronger,” Mr Fair said.

“We’ve already begun a renewed marketing effort of Grand Bahama in tandem with the Government, as evidenced by recent trade missions to the Lodging Summit in Los Angeles and, most recently, Panama.

“We now look forward to even more collaborative efforts as we journey to Brazil at the end of March, and are finaliding plans for the upcoming Design Caribbean Trade Show to be held here in Freeport this June.”