Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF), the country’s flagship trade event, concluded on Saturday after a month-long run, generating nearly Tk400 crore in sales and highlighting steady domestic demand despite inflationary pressures and a slowing economy, according to Export Promotion Bureau (EPB).
At the closing ceremony held at Bangladesh–China Friendship Exhibition Centre in Purbachal, Narayanganj, the EPB reported domestic transactions of Tk393 crore; up 3.42% compared to last year. Participating local and foreign companies also secured potential export orders worth $17.98 million (around Tk224.26 crore).
Products attracting export interest included jute and diversified jute items, electrical and electronics goods, home appliances, cosmetics, processed foods, handloom products, nakshi kantha, home textiles and household items.
Export orders came from Afghanistan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Malaysia and Turkey.
A total of 329 enterprises participated in the fair, including 11 companies from six countries; India, Turkey, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Malaysia, alongside local businesses.
Exhibits covered a wide range of industries, from garments, leather, jute and agro-processed goods to furniture, electronics, handicrafts, cosmetics, toys, real estate services and fast food.
During the closing ceremony, awards were presented to 40 institutions for excellence in pavilion design, product display, customer service, cleanliness, digital presence and innovation.
As part of the fair, the EPB organised eight seminars on export diversification and capacity building, in collaboration with Ministry of Commerce, trade promotion bodies (BSCIC, SME Foundation, JDPC), industry associations (BPGMEA, BGAPMEA, BFPIA, BanglaCraft) and development partners including World Bank, GIZ, FCDO and BSI.
An Export Enclave showcased seven leading export sectors for local and foreign buyers. Visitor-friendly facilities such as a Senior Citizen Corner, mother and child care centre and a children’s park were provided, alongside health awareness campaigns by voluntary organisations. Security measures included CCTV surveillance, law enforcement presence and fire safety units.
The Directorate of National Consumers’ Rights Protection monitored food quality and consumer protection throughout the month.
Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin officially closed the fair, with Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman presiding over the ceremony.
PT/ra
