AP will utilize trade fairs, expos to boost economy: Naidu

Hyderabad, Aug 30 (INN): Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu delivered the key note address at the Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA) at HITEX Convention Centre on Saturday.

Speaking at the seminar, the Chief Minister said Andhra Pradesh will have trade fairs that will provide a platform to entrepreneurs who can showcase their goods and services as well as interact with stakeholders from different sectors of the economy. Stating an example, he said trade fairs and exhibitions are perfect opportunities for cities, states and countries to boost their economies. Even a small state like Niger (in Africa) has managed to grow its economy by organizing Trade Fairs. Every year trade fairs boost German economic output by 23.5 billion Euros. They also ensure that 226,000 people have full-time jobs.

It is our belief that with a more cohesive integration and interaction between all sectors of AP’s economy, we will be able to fast-track our state’s quest for sustainable economic development, he said, adding, this will affirm the recognition of AP as a fast growing economy (within India) with various investment potentials and opportunities. Our trade fairs, the Chief Minister said, will focus on the promotion and development of indigenous and international trade to increase the volume of trade and boost activities of industrialization, which we believe, is critical to achieving a sustainable economic transformation.

“In our aim to make AP a skill and knowledge hub, we wish to hold trade fairs which will contribute significantly in catapulting state’s economy. This plan includes establishing several world-class convention centres which would address the needs of all stakeholders for next 20 years,” he added

Recalling his efforts in building ‘Brand Hyderabad’ under his administration between 1995 and 2004, the Chief Minister said that he has successfully created many architectural trademarks in this vibrant city. One such wonders is the Hitex Convention Centre (HICC) and also the Cyber Towers, which is synonymous with brand “Cyberabad”.

He revealed how he had, as the Chief Minister of united AP, scrupulously replicated the best development models from various countries in Hyderabad, keeping the demographics in mind.

The Chief Minister said that trade fairs, exhibitions and cultural events will be utilized as channels through which benefits of growth can be transmitted to improve the well-being of the citizens.