BCI chief executive officer Jennifer Henry officially declared the three-day Trade Days open, reaffirming the bank’s long-standing partnership with the Business Trade and Investment Board (BTIB) in supporting Cook Islands businesses.

In his speech, caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Albert Nicholas highlighted the importance of supporting local enterprise, celebrating authenticity and creating opportunities for Cook Islands businesses through initiatives such as Uniquely Cook Islands.

“That vision reflects exactly why Trade Days continues to matter,” BCI’s Henry said.

She said Trade Days was established to provide entrepreneurs, artisans, growers, market vendors and innovators with a platform to showcase their products, connect with customers and grow their businesses.

“As the People’s Bank, our role is to ensure as many Cook Islanders as possible can participate in our economy and have access to opportunities to grow and succeed,” she said.

A highlight of the opening ceremony was the launch of two new BCI digital payment solutions designed specifically for the local market.

Henry said the bank had already introduced Taku Internet Banking and the Taku BCI mobile app and was now expanding its digital services with TakuEcom and TakuPOS.

TakuEcom is an e-commerce platform that uses payment links and QR codes, allowing businesses to receive online orders and payments whether or not they have their own website.

TakuPOS, due to launch in mid-August, will enable businesses to accept card payments directly on Android smartphones without the need for additional payment hardware.

“These are not simply digital products adapted for our market,” Henry said.

“They are solutions developed by the Bank of the Cook Islands, shaped by the needs of the Cook Islands, and designed with our market vendors, small businesses and communities in mind.”

She encouraged the public to support local businesses throughout the week.

“To all our vendors, thank you. You are the reason Trade Days exists. I encourage everyone to visit the stalls, support local businesses and celebrate the talent, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that makes our Cook Islands so special.”

Returning vendor Fiona Taripo, known for her floral decorations, garments and popular ei katu, said she chose a stall closer to the stage this year because of the lively atmosphere.

Taripo said her passion for arts and crafts was inspired by her mother, Tina Taripo, one of the original vendors at Punanga Nui Market.

“My mum has always been involved in arts and crafts. I’ve grown up helping her, from tying pāreu to making all sorts of crafts. Whatever helps us get by is what we try to sell.”

BTIB chief executive officer Repeta Puna said the opening day was an outstanding success.

“I was pleasantly surprised that most food vendors were sold out in the first few hours of the day, indicating that either people were hungry or the food was simply too good to ignore,” Puna said.

She also acknowledged Ridge Ponini for his opening performance.

“A special thanks to Ridge Ponini for entertaining us. Te Atua te aroa. It was a special and wonderful day, and we look forward to another successful day tomorrow.”

The Trade Days continue today and tomorrow from 8am to 2pm or until sold out.