BISHKEK (TCA) — On October 10, the US Embassy in Kyrgyzstan, in partnership with Business Association JIA and with funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and local business partners, will organize the first ever International Franchise and Trade Expo (IFTE) at Ethno-Cultural Complex Dasmia in Bishkek.
Dozens of international companies, including those from the United States, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Italy, Czech Republic, and South Korea, will exhibit their products and services in the IFTE exhibition hall as part of the U.S. Embassy’s broader mission to increase commercial activity in the Kyrgyz Republic and, more broadly, in Central Asia. Industries prominently represented include franchises, food and beverage, information technology, business development, agrotechnology, logistics, and construction. Over 1000 Kyrgyz and Central Asian entrepreneurs are expected to attend the event. The Expo will also feature industry panel discussions featuring local and international entrepreneurs, as well as seminars by U.S. Export Bank (EXIM) and USAID representatives on financing solutions and other business development opportunities.
The IFTE will be the culmination of the U.S. Embassy’s year-long strategy to improve the investment climate and business environment, with the goal of attracting foreign investors and business partners to explore distribution, sales, franchising, and local partnership opportunities in the Kyrgyz and Central Asian markets.
On October 11, in the same venue, Business Association JIA will host the third biannual Bishkek Investment Forum (BIF) to showcase pioneering business projects and connect leading businesses with potential investors.
