The 31st Consumer Fair and Trade Expo (CFTE31) kicked off with an official opening ceremony that highlighted its pivotal role in promoting regional economic collaboration and empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Officiating the launch was Yang Mulia Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, symbolising the enduring support for enterprise development, regional trade, and inclusive progress.
The ceremony also marked the opening of the 2nd Consumer Fair Conference (CONFAC), held at the International Convention Centre’s Concourse area. Organised alongside Brunei’s largest and longest-running trade exhibition, CONFAC aims to spark high-level dialogue around investment, innovation, and growth within the BIMP-EAGA region.
The event began with welcoming remarks from Ms. Chuisan Ting, Head of Corporate Communication at D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd, followed by an address by Yang Mulia Haji Abdul Saman bin Haji Ahmad, President of the National Chamber of Commerce & Industry Brunei Darussalam (NCCIBD).
Both speakers highlighted the continued relevance of CFTE as a catalyst for regional engagement and enterprise development.
This year’s conference opened with keynote presentations by Dr. Diana Cheong, Executive Director and Chief Researcher at the Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies (CSPS), and Khairy Jamaluddin, former Minister of Health of Malaysia.
Both speakers shared valuable insights on economic resilience, leadership, and transformational growth in the region.
CFTE31 brings together a diverse mix of MSMEs, policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to explore new trade avenues, infrastructure partnerships, and entrepreneurship development.
A highlight within the conference is The Ascend Conference, featuring keynote addresses, regional panel discussions, and dedicated segments on youth entrepreneurship and smart cities designed to encourage knowledge exchange and strategic networking.
The event also strengthens its support for local startups and innovation. In partnership with the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), CFTE31 provides a dedicated showcase for homegrown enterprises in the Orange Zone, Delima Hall and the International Zone.
In addition to the expo’s international flavour is the official launch of the Thai Grand Fair, a vibrant display of Thailand’s best in food, crafts, beauty, and lifestyle products. The showcase not only enriches the cultural experience but also strengthens commercial ties between Brunei and Thailand.
Another key highlight of the CFTE31 is the Grand Lucky Draw, where visitors can win daily prizes including the grand prize: a brand-new Toyota Rush, sponsored by NBT (Brunei).
With its wide-reaching agenda and dynamic marketplace, CFTE31 continues to serve as a vital platform for cross-border business collaboration, economic inclusion, and innovation-driven growth in the region.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
