Tamkeen, Bahrain’s labour fund, has supported nearly 50 Bahraini business entrepreneurs to participate in key international trade fairs and exhibitions held during the first quarter of 2012.

The events covered a wide range of sectors and industries including ICT, construction, technology, safety and health, beauty products and fashion.

The support is part of "Tarweej" scheme, under Tamkeen's Enterprise Development Support Programme.

Since its launch in November 2009, Tamkeen has contributed nearly BD1.5 million through this scheme which has enabled nearly 800 companies to showcase their products and services at leading local, regional and international trade fairs and exhibitions.

The exhibitions included the British and International Franchise Exhibition 2012, Dubai International Boat show 2012, Doha Trade Fair 2012, Bride Show Abu Dhabi, Buildex 2012 in Saudi Arabia, ChocoFlora in Riyadh and QITCOM Conference and Exhibition in Doha.

Tamkeen's private sector support senior manager Mohammed Bucheery said prominent events held abroad provide an ideal platform for Bahraini private enterprises to penetrate foreign markets and become more sustainable.

"We currently have a further 95 enterprises which have registered to take part in upcoming key expos and International trade fairs, reflecting a strong push by Bahrain-based businesses to enhance their international footprint," added Bucheery

Ahmed Khalfan, owner of Scubamaster Dive Shop, said the support has positively impacted his business through his participation in events such as the recently-held Dubai International Boat Show 2012 by opening up a new growth opportunity for him.

Huda Khalil, proprietor of Abayati, said her participation in the Bride Show 2012 in Abu Dhabi enabled her line of designer abayas to reach new clients, and she is intent on taking part in the upcoming "Heya" Expo 2011 in Doha after her successful participation last year.

Tamkeen's "Tarweej" is a co-financing scheme designed to support business enterprises achieve sustainability by expanding the outreach of their products and services through local and regional exhibitions.

Tamkeen subsidises 80 per cent of the total costs of Bahraini companies participating in flagship trade exhibitions up to a maximum of BD15,000 ($39,780) for small enterprises, and BD20,000 for medium and large enterprises

For international events, the support also covers travel, accommodation, and shipping costs.

Business owners in Bahrain wishing to benefit from Tamkeen's "Tarweej" scheme in international events must apply at least one month prior to the event, while local events only require 10 days. – TradeArabia News Service