By Chester Robards Senior Business Reporter
Copyright thenassauguardian
The recently held Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) in Algiers, Algeria, has convinced Dr. Charlene Reid, who went as a representative of the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation (BCCEC) delegation, that The Bahamas can benefit directly from trade with Africa, she said in a statement.
She has announced plans to spearhead a supplier road show in Freeport, Grand Bahama to create linkages between the continent and this country.
IATF, which is hosted by the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank) in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the AfCFTA Secretariat, brought together over 1,600 exhibitors, 40,000 delegates, and generated a record US$48.2 billion in trade and investment commitments from September 4–10.
“Dr. Reid’s participation was part of a national effort to build trade, investment, and diaspora linkages between The Bahamas and Africa, with a focus on diversifying the Bahamian economy beyond tourism and financial services,” the statement said.
Reid added: “This was not just about attending a conference, it was about opening new doors for Bahamian businesses.
“Africa represents a market of 1.4 billion people. By connecting our entrepreneurs to African suppliers and investors, we can create new jobs, reduce costs, and spark innovation right here at home.”
Reid said in the statement that positioning Freeport as a Caribbean hub for Africa–Americas trade could spark new opportunities for Bahamians in logistics, manufacturing, and services, as well as creating jobs.
She added that partnering with proven African suppliers could also help to bring down the cost of building materials and consumer goods in The Bahamas.
“IATF also showcases health, hospitality, financial, and creative industries—areas where Bahamians excel,” the statement said.
She added: “Grand Bahama has the infrastructure and strategic location to be a gateway between Africa and the Americas.”
“My goal is to transform these global relationships into local opportunities, so families in Grand Bahama can benefit from steady jobs, stronger small businesses, and a brighter future.”
Reid also insisted that a Grand Bahama business pipeline with Africa could also give local entrepreneurs access to training, financing, and new sourcing options.
She also proposed a Diaspora Trade Week designed to convert IATF connections into real deals, shipments, and partnerships.
