17/12/2020 - Port of Spain:
The Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce has launched its “Nearby Stores” App which provides a platform for entrepreneurs and businesses in the Borough of Chaguanas and the wider business community an opportunity to promote their products and services through geo-targeting of customers, in-app messaging and business directions via Google maps. Speaking at the virtual launch of the “Nearby Stores” App on Thursday 17 December, 2020, Trade and Industry Minister, Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon commended the Chamber for what she described as an “
innovative and timely initiative”.
Minister Gopee-Scoon said “
Prior to COVID-19, e-commerce was often seen as an unnecessary expense to many businesses, especially micro and small enterprises; but now, it is an invaluable investment. Firms—both small and large—are expected to have an online presence to remain competitive, relevant and to better serve the needs and wants of consumers”. She noted that the Government of Trinidad and Tobago (GOTT), even before the pandemic, recognized that easy internet access, fast connectivity, an enabling digital environment, and optimal data storage are the foundation for the digital transformation of the country. To this end, she said, the Ministry of Trade and Industry for the past 3 years has been implementing the National E-commerce Strategy with the main goal of promoting e-commerce for local businesses to serve domestic and international consumer markets.