The OECS sub region is using the "Grand Pavois" boat show to showcase their potential as yachting destinations and to promote onshore activities, products and services.

The Grand Pavois boat show has been held annually for the past thirty years. It attracts about 600 international exhibitors and more than 100,000 visitors, many of them yachts people looking for new destinations.

The nine OECS countries are represented by a wide cross section of tourism operatives, including owners of marinas and yacht charter companies, agro processors, service providers, tourism ministry officials, crafts people and musicians. Their nine booths sit side by side in the main Guest of Honour pavillion under the theme "Many Islands, One Sea".

As part of the first order of business following the opening, OECS Director General Dr. Len Ishmael and representatives of several member states, on Wednesday addressed the La Rochelle Chamber of Commerce (Club of Exporters). The presentations described the aeas of economic development being pursued by the OECS sub region and the high level of cooperation among the islands. Participants were invited to explore the many and varied investment opportunities.

The Grand Pavois boat show runs from September 7th to 12th. The nine OECS Member Countries are Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, the British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.