The trade fair sees the presence of about 4,000 business representatives from more than 60 countries and territories, with over 40 countries sending their business association or trade promotion delegations.
The open ceremony was attended by Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez and other senior Cuban officials.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Cuban Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment Rodrigo Malmierca emphasised the large number of businesses attending the fair despite the complex international situation as evidence of international businesses’ interest in doing business in Cuba.
He also welcomed the presence of US enterprises, considering it as a memorable mark amid the US administration’s strict sanctions against Cuba.
The Cuban minister affirmed that Cuba will always respect and fulfil all of its international financial obligations.
FIHAV was first organised in 1982 and is the most important trade fair in Cuba and one of the largest in Latin America. The 2019 edition will last until November 8.
