The Bank of the Cook Islands (BCI) Trade Days Expo is proving popular, this year a record number of 84 vendors have signed up to showcase locally made products and home-grown produce.

From this morning to Thursday, August 3, locals and visitors alike can enjoy a wide array of Cook Islands made arts and craft, clothing, handmade products and food stalls at the Punanga Nui Market from 9am.

The BCI Trade Days has been a long-standing tradition in the community which is hosted during Te Maeva Nui festival and the Constitution Celebration period with the purpose of encouraging trade for local farmers and crafters.

Visitors can expect to find a wide range of locally made crafts and products, including hand-made jewellery, clothing and textiles.

In addition to the crafts there will be plenty of delicious food on offer at the event.

Formalities will begin at 9am this morning followed by a speech from Cook Islands Investment Corporation Minister Albert Nicholas and BCI chief executive officer, Jennifer Henry.

These Trade Days also play an important role in supporting local businesses and promoting economic development in the community.

Following are the variety of crafts and food stalls who will be open at the BCI Trade Days Expo: Pati Mai - Paula Sherwin, Maruoi Natural Skincare & Cosmetics, Sumaringa (Matareka Tini), Mahine Magic (Helen Muir), Nakura (Nakura Maretu), Megan Troy (Collier), McLeod Pearls of Manihiki, Paul's Hot Sauce (Paul Lynch Napa), Kool Kebabs (Lorna Nicholas), Tumutoa Tours (Ngametua Mamanu), A & M Pearls (Mehau Piho), Fine Jewellery (Talia Lajpold), Ko'u Rarotonga, Moana-Liza Essentials, Manihiki Pearl Techs, M&M Ukalele (Reea William Adamu), Boba Inu (Mata Puia), Teumere's Craft, Aunty Poko’s Hut & Rugby League, Kora Pearls (Nancy Kora). Kai Mone (Nancy Kora), Julz Funky Art & Jewellery, KMD Ukuleles (Enua Totini), Moeau Made (Donna Smith), Te Rangi Pearls & Crafts Ltd, T.K. Islands (Takiriko Ioaba), Rola Prints (Luduina Williams), Natura Juice (David Akanoa), Are Mama (Christina MaClennan), Tarani Crafts, Island Grillz (Tarani), Sophie & Gus Meyer, Mata Browne, Akaeiei (Vaiana George), Mrs Q Arts/Crafts, Dora’s Handmade-Manea Soap, Mereani Hutchinson (Te Pua Neinei Gifts), Bernice Manarangi, E.A.T. BBQ (Shona Kirikava), Aeata's Craft, Tauromi William, Kangahua (Henry Ford), Pastor Clerk Turua.