Prince Edward Island will be promoted to potential visitors this weekend in Halifax at one of the biggest annual trade shows in the region, says Minister of Tourism and Culture Robert Henderson.

“The Saltscapes Expo is an excellent opportunity for the province and Island businesses to promote the sights, sounds and tastes of Prince Edward Island to thousands of potential visitors,” said Minister Henderson. “Trade shows like Saltscapes are an important part of the province’s marketing effort that go largely unnoticed by Islanders, but are a great way to reach potential visitors directly and in person.”

The department will bring three Island chefs to the expo. They will provide food and beverage samples from Prince Edward Island. A local artist will be on hand creating sandcastles. There will also be prize packages and discounted rates offered to potential visitors.

Dozens of Island businesses and organizations are joining the province at the Saltscapes Expo this year. Many businesses have a direct relationship to tourism like the Confederation Centre of the Arts, while others, like Island Abbey Foods, are showcasing products produced on the Island to potential buyers.

“I’m very pleased to see that so many Island businesses and organizations are joining the province at the Expo this year,” said Minister Henderson. “By exposing potential visitors to a broad range of products and services, we increase the chance they’ll choose Prince Edward Island as a vacation destination, or a place to do business.”

The Department of Tourism and Culture is committed to supporting the tourism industry and strategic partnerships that accelerate the growth of tourism visitation, spending and employment. Tourism is a vital industry in Prince Edward Island that employs over 7,000 Islanders. It accounts for approximately $380 million in economic activity each year and seven percent of GDP, the highest of any Canadian province.

To learn more about the Saltscapes Expo, visit www.saltscapes.com/expo.