MARAWI CITY—The month-long Bangsamoro Ramadhan Trade Fair 2023, led by the BARMM’s Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism (MTIT), has generated total sales of Php16.9 million.

The total revenue of this year’s fair exceeded the target sales pegged at Php12-million, which covers from March 21 up to April 20, 2023, held inside the Bangsamoro Government Center (BGC) in Cotabato City.

Accordingly, about 54 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and more than 20 ambulant vendors generated 200 jobs from exhibitors.

Snooky Gani, Chief of Enterprise and Trade Development Division, said through the Ramadhan Trade Fair, these MSMEs were provided with a venue to showcase, promote, and sell products made by our local entrepreneurs, which also helped increase the revenue.

“The trade is also a way to enable other people from outside the Bangsamoro region to better perceive and understand diverse cultures working together towards economic recovery and seeking cultural solidarity,” Gani said.

She further stated that the ministry is proud to facilitate such events towards boosting and enhancing the socio-economic situation of Bangsamoro people, saying: “It gives us a strong motivation to pursue efforts such as this to further support MSMEs in the region.”

The exhibitors featured local products such as native delicacies, processed foods, souvenirs, garments and fashion accessories, and other genuine local products.

Capping off the trade fair was an awarding ceremony which recognized the Most Promising MSME/Entrepreneur and the Best Dressed Booth.

Hassaraff Seafoods & Grill Restaurant, Realuxe Cafe and Al-Diwan Restaurant bagged the Most Promising MSME Award, while K3 Cellphone Accessories Store, Samra’s Maguindeli and Greatea Café won the Best Dressed Booth Award. (BIO/PIA Lanao del Sur)