High transport fares hampering attendance at Enugu trade fair

Concerns have emerged over the potential impact of rising transportation costs and inadequate infrastructure on attendance at the 37th Enugu International Trade Fair, which commenced on Saturday.

The trade fair, organised, by the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA), opened with low-key activities, as many exhibitors were still in the process of setting up their stands.

Observations at the fairground show that several participants are yet to occupy exhibition spaces, including the newly inaugurated 3,000-square-metre tent designated to host exhibitors.

Early arrivals were largely seen constructing and arranging their stands, a situation some attributed to logistical challenges.

Speaking with reporters, some exhibitors expressed concern over the high cost of transporting goods to the venue from different parts of the country.

They called on the Federal Government to urgently address the rising cost of transportation, which they linked to high cost of petrol amid the global energy crisis.

Despite the slow start, Uche Chukwu Mbah, Director-General of ECCIMA, reassured stakeholders that the situation is typical of the fair’s opening day.

“Over the years, the first day often appears quiet, but activities usually pick up in the following days,” he said. “Most exhibitors are still setting up and will be ready for full business.”

The 10-day trade fair, which started on Saturday, March 21, 2016, will end on Monday, March 30, 2026.