A record number of 64 vendors will feature in the popular three-day BCI (Bank of the Cook Islands) Trade Days event which starts this morning from 9am to 2pm at the Punanga Nui market.

The vendors include 60 per cent with arts and craft stalls and the remaining 40 per cent selling food.

Skilled craftswoman Mii Upu, pictured wearing one of her locally made pearl shell necklaces, will be selling the item alongside other creations at the BCI Trade Days Expo this week.

Upu worked until late yesterday evening weaving and sewing pearl and shell beaded necklaces, bracelets and earrings to complement her stall which also features locally made coconut oil, everlasting ei katu, tivaivai, pareu and a range of strings of pearls.

The BCI Trade Days are organised by the Business Trade Investment Board (BTIB).

BTIB’s chief executive officer Repeta Puna is pleased with the record number of small local businesses participating in the trade days and encourages everyone to visit the stalls and show their support.

BTIB Minister Patrick Arioka will officially open the Trade Days followed by an address by the sponsor BCI’s managing director Vaine Nooana-Arioka.

There will be live entertainment, food, plant and art vendors, spot prizes and giveaways at the Punanga Nui Market throughout the three days.