The 60th edition of the International Agricultural Show opened its doors on Saturday, February 24th in Paris. Until March 3, 2024, more than 600,000 visitors are expected to attend. The Reunion Village is a popular attraction, featuring 37 local producers and artisans.
Emmanuel Macron, President of the Republic, inaugurated the sixtieth edition of the International Agricultural Show (SIA) on Saturday. 37 exhibitors from Reunion gathered at the Reunion Village of the Departmental Council. In total, seven areas are spread over 800 square meters on the second floor of Hall 5.2.
“Everything was ready to welcome the visitors, who are always numerous for this essential event,” the Department said in a statement released on Saturday. Serge Hoareau, Vice President of the Departmental Council responsible for Agricultural Affairs, Mayor of Petite-Île, and President of the Association of Mayors of Reunion (AMDR) was present for the occasion.
“For the past five years, we have made an effort to offer exhibitors a quality space to work well and welcome visitors,” says Serge Hoareau. “This space is the central point of the Overseas Pavilion, and it always impresses our colleagues from other territories.”
Serge Hoareau hoped that the Reunion exhibitors would have the same success as last year during the opening on Saturday and until March 3.
“The Mainlanders come looking for escape, and we are here to provide it to them,” said Serge Hoareau. “I have no doubt about the quality of the products presented. I wish all our exhibitors an excellent 60th International Agricultural Show!”
Reunion exhibitors were eagerly awaiting visitors to test the reception of their products.
Florence, a fifty-year-old Parisian, took advantage of being an exhibitor in another pavilion to visit the “Reunion Village” before the crowds arrived. She headed straight to the stand of Arifel to buy passion fruits, before visiting the stand of Bananeraie de Bourbon by Kati Payet. “I bought two pots of green mango and ginger last year and dreamed about them all year. I even searched online to make sure they were coming back this year,” she said, stocking up for 2024.
“It’s nice to hear that,” commented Kati Payet. “That’s why we come. And since we almost didn’t make it this year, I’m very happy.” As she embarks on her sixth participation, the producer also reassured her loyal customers from mainland France. The pots of “Piment Mafana” are still available.
Some visitors were in a rush to reach the Reunion stands to find the lychee honey. Visitors have until March 3 to discover the specialties of Reunion.
