How to Attend or Exhibit at Caribbean Trade Shows
Trade shows are where Caribbean businesses meet regional and international buyers face to face. This guide covers how to pick the right event, prepare, and turn conversations into customers. For this year's events, see the Caribbean trade shows 2026 calendar.
1. Choose the right event
- Multi-sector B2B: TIC (Trade & Investment Convention), hosted by the Trinidad & Tobago Manufacturers' Association.
- Tourism and hospitality: Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CHTA) and Caribbean Tourism Organization events.
- Creative industries: CARIFESTA, organised through CARICOM.
- Agriculture and food: national and CARICOM agri expos and investment forums.
Dates and venues change. Always confirm on the organiser's official website before booking travel.
2. Attending as a buyer
- Register early and request pre-arranged B2B meetings where offered.
- Shortlist suppliers in advance — browse the verified business directory.
- Bring clear specs: quantities, delivery country and timelines.
- Read our buyer attendance guide for TIC.
3. Exhibiting as a business
- Book booth space early; check exhibitor packages and deadlines with the organiser.
- Prepare samples, price sheets and export capacity details.
- Make sure buyers can find you online before and after the show with a complete business profile.
- See how to exhibit at TIC.
4. Follow up after the show
Follow up within a week, send what you promised, and keep the conversation going. Buyers can post sourcing needs on B2B requests, and businesses can list for free to stay discoverable between shows.
Frequently asked questions
Which Caribbean trade show should I attend?
Match the event to your sector. TIC in Trinidad and Tobago is multi-sector B2B, Caribbean Travel Marketplace serves the travel trade, and CARIFESTA focuses on creative industries. Always confirm dates on the organiser's official site.
Do I need to register in advance?
Yes. Most regional B2B events require advance registration for buyers and exhibitors, and pre-scheduled meetings fill early.
How do I follow up after the show?
Contact leads within a week, reference what you discussed, and keep your business profile up to date so buyers can find you year-round.