The 9th TPO Network World Conference and Awards jointly organised by MATRADE and International Trade Centre (ITC), Geneva was officially opened by YB Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamed, Minister of International Trade and Industry in a simple yet memorable ceremony at MATRADE Exhibition and Convention Centre (MECC). The conference, a biennial event first launched in 1996. The 9th conference brought together more than 200 delegates from 65 countries to address the theme “Transforming TPOs Business through Innovation”.

The highlight for the conference was the TPO Network Awards Night which was graced by Datuk Rebecca Sta Maria, Secretary General of MITI, Dr. Wong Lai Sum, CEO of MATRADE and Ms Patricia Francis, Executive Director of ITC. The list of winners at this year’s award were rounded by Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) [Small Island Developing State], Uganda Export Promotion Board [Least Developed Country], ProMexico Trade and Investment (ProMexico) [Developing Country], Advantage Austria [Developed Country] and Special Mention Award to Swiss Trade and Invest (OSEC) Switzerland for its Pool of Experts initiative.

During the closing ceremony, ITC Executive Director in her remarks praised MATRADE for its professionalism in organising the 9th TPO Network World Conference and Awards, being the first time it was held in South East Asia.