This is Cuba's main commercial event of the year, where representatives from foreign companies gather in the hopes of impressing the island's dictator with their products.
The main news from this year's fair has been the dramatic drop in purchasing power by the Castro regime -- only $150 million, which is $200 million less than last year.
Yet, despite this, representatives from over 51 countries are participating.
So let's put this into perspective.
In Cuba, only the Castro regime is allowed to engage in commercial activities. The Cuban people are strictly prohibited from engaging in private enterprise.
As such, the fair is only open to "business people" and by invitation.
Therefore, it essentially consists of Castro regime officials -- mostly military personnel, since Raul Castro has accelerated military control of Cuba's economy -- roaming the halls of the convention site, while foreign commercial representatives jump over each other, do tricks and grovel for their business.
The regime officials then choose their favorites.
All subject to the Emperor's final thumbs up or down.
