Ambassador William Carlos visits FACIM

In September Ambassador William Carlos visited FACIM, Mozambique’s main international trade fair, which this year attracted over 3000 exhibitors from Mozambique and over 30 countries, as well as from all provinces of Mozambique. FACIM is a general trade fair, a meeting point for producers, salespersons, investors, importers, exporters, buyers and government departments.

The main objective of FACIM is the promotion of trade between Mozambique and the rest of the world and to encourage Mozambique’s integration in world markets. This year marks the 51st FACIM. It regularly receives over 80,000 visitors, and this year was oversubscribed, with some exhibitors turned down for lack of space.

The ambassador was particularly satisfied to see the participation of Ireland’s two focus provinces, Inhambane and Niassa. Inhambane showcased investment opportunities in various fields including the province’s stunning beaches and tourism opportunities, along with helpful information on investing in the province, and had nearly 40 individual companies represented. Niassa displayed a range of locally grown agricultural produce including cereals, vegetables and fruits, some beautiful custom-made furniture, and information about mining in the province.

Also with a stand were two of Ireland’s partners, the Helen Keller Institute and Mozambique's Technical Secretariat for Food Security and Nutrition (SETSAN), which focus on mass fortification of vegetable oil and wheat flour with key vitamins and minerals. The Embassy’s roll-ups featured in the stand, as recognition of our support.

Government departments also had stands, and some services were available to individuals and businesses, including advice on setting up and formalizing small businesses and real time attribution of tax numbers. A number of European countries had stands, often with the presence of national companies looking to gain a foothold in the dynamic Mozambican market.

Alongside the traditional stands in a number of pavilions, including one dedicated fully to tourism, and another focussed on agriculture, a series of debates and lectures took places on issues of relevance for international companies looking to do business in Mozambique.

Ireland plans to have a presence at FACIM next year. If any Irish companies would be interested in exhibiting their products and services, the embassy can provide information and support. For more information, please Contact Us.