Int'l Construction Fair kicks off in Cuba amid pandemic

The 13th edition of the International Fair of Construction "FECONS 2022" opened here Tuesday for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread in the Caribbean nation in March 2020.

The fair, taking place at Havana's PABEXPO exhibition center, comes at a time when the Caribbean nation is promoting housing and hotel construction as part of the national development plan for 2030.

"High-quality construction works in keeping with the principles of sustainable development are fundamental for our country," said Cuba's Deputy Construction Minister Angel Vilaragut, adding the event will help the nation boost economic activity and exports.

With delegates from 15 countries, including China, and running through Friday, the fair features presentations, lectures and a business forum.

Iraya Rodriguez, an employee from China's Beijing North Star Company, said the fair is a great opportunity to extend the scope of their business model.

"This is a good chance for us since we are committed to supporting the building sector in Cuba with our products," she said. "This event will be beneficial for the island's economic recovery."

"I want to explore business opportunities with state enterprises and foreign companies," said Rolando Amador, a Cuban entrepreneur who runs a medium-sized enterprise on the outskirts of Havana. "I had been longing for this unique moment."