There was a time when the International Malta Trade Fair hosted stands from several countries offering new and colourful products. Since moving from Naxxar to Ta’ Qali it has gotten worse year by year, until someone had the brainwave of encouraging a few somewhat tricky traders from neighbouring Sicily to set up stall.

The person responsible for exposing the Maltese public to being exploited by these so-called traders must either be simple or otherwise was in cahoots.

To be fair, there were a few regular exhibitors who hailed from our neighbouring island.

If the organisers need proof of how unpopular the fair has become they only need to look at the many exhibitors who used to take part and who now just advertise Trade Fair prices from their very own establishment without the hassle of having to pay extortionate fees to pitch at the Malta Fairs and Convention Centre.

I am not against having a trade fair but those responsible for coordinating next year’s effort need to think very hard about how they can make it viable for both traders and the public, otherwise just don’t bother!