VOINews, Aceh: The Aceh Provincial Government, through the Department of Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises (Diskop UKM), is hosting the East Coast UMKM Expo as a strategic effort to expand market access for local entrepreneurs. The event, held in Aceh Tamiang, serves as a crucial platform for small and medium enterprises (UMKM) from the eastern region of Aceh to showcase their products and reach a wider audience.
Acting Head of Diskop UKM Aceh, Saiful Bahri, expressed the government's appreciation for all parties who supported the organization of the 2024 East Coast UMKM Expo. "This expo is a significant moment for UMKM in the East Coast region to promote their local products, expand their marketing networks, and enhance the competitiveness of Acehnese products at both national and international levels," Saiful stated in Banda Aceh on Saturday.
The expo, which takes place at the Aceh Tamiang Sports Hall from August 23 to 25, 2024, was officially opened by Saiful Bahri on behalf of Aceh's Acting Governor, Safrizal. The event features participation from dozens of UMKM, providing a valuable opportunity for local entrepreneurs to engage with potential buyers and collaborators.
This event is part of a broader series of activities to commemorate National UMKM Day 2024, the 79th Anniversary of Indonesia's Independence, and to celebrate the upcoming 2024 PON XXI Aceh-Sumut games. The East Coast UMKM Expo showcases around 36 booths or stalls, featuring a wide array of products across various sectors, including culinary delights, handicrafts, fashion, and herbal products.
In addition to the product exhibitions, the expo is enlivened with various activities such as talk shows and creativity competitions. These events not only attract visitors but also provide a platform for UMKM to strengthen their presence in an increasingly competitive market.
"This event is a vital platform for UMKM to reinforce their market presence and compete effectively in a more competitive environment," Saiful added. His remarks underscored the expo's role in helping local businesses navigate the challenges of modern markets and adapt to changing consumer demands.
Saiful also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government, entrepreneurs, and the community in supporting the growth of UMKM, which he described as one of the key pillars of Aceh's economy. He highlighted the need for ongoing support and partnerships to ensure the sustainability and success of these small and medium enterprises.
The 2024 East Coast UMKM Expo is open to the public and is expected to attract thousands of visitors from various regions across Aceh. This influx of visitors provides a significant opportunity for local businesses to gain exposure and build relationships with new customers and partners.
"We hope this event will also inspire entrepreneurial spirit among the public, especially the younger generation," Saiful said, reflecting on the broader impact of the expo. His comments highlight the potential of the expo not only as a commercial platform but also as a source of inspiration for future entrepreneurs in Aceh.
The East Coast UMKM Expo 2024 stands as a testament to the Aceh Provincial Government's commitment to fostering economic growth and empowering local businesses. Through such initiatives, Aceh continues to strengthen its economy by supporting the development and success of its UMKM sector, ensuring that these enterprises play a central role in the province's economic future./ANTARA/VOI
