In 1996, members of the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry approached the secretariat with a proposal to develop a consumer trade show, since the Festival Grand Market, the country’s largest consumer show up to that point had run its course.

The very first EXPO was held in 1996 and was started with one row of booths situated immediately outside the St. John’s College Gymnasium. The Chamber’s employees recall that one year, incessant rains and fierce winds blew down tents, created mud pits and a myriad of difficulties for those working to bring the show to life that year; but the show did go on! Needless to say the show was such a success that it eventually moved inside the Gymnasium and consumed the entire area around the SJC Gymnasium! The “Expo” has over the years evolved into Expo Belize Marketplace, the largest consumer tradeshow in the country and a welcome addition to the September celebrations calendar.

Always looking for ways to improve its flagship event, the 2010 trade show promises to be bigger and better than ever. This year, we’ve moved to the new ITVET facility on Freetown Road, the former Technical College and venue for the old “Festival Grand Market”. In addition we’ve added new features and events to ensure both participants and consumers get the most of this year’s EXPO!

We’re grateful to our sponsors, participants, visitors and friends who have supported us over the fourteen years we’ve been at the helm of Expo Belize. We look forward to their continued support as we do all again in 2010!