The Governor of the Erongo Region says trade fairs are important for businesses to share ideas, while promoting and marketing their products and services. Cleophas Mutjavikua was responding to the Swakopmund branch of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (NCCI) effort to raise money for an international event. A gala dinner, organised by the NCCI Branch, raised 500 000 dollars to host the Swakopmund International Trade Expo next month. The Governor said there was a need for the business community in Namibia to support trade fairs. Mutjavikua singled out Small and Medium Enterprises, which he said played a crucial role in the economy of every country. He called on corporate companies to support SMEs, while encouraging all Namibians, including the youth, to become active role players in local economic development. The governor said expos strengthened existing ties between the Government and the private sector, through open dialogue and efforts to support national development strategies.