30th Dhaka International Trade Fair kicks off

The curtain rose on the 30th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) today (3 January) as Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin formally inaugurated the month-long event at the China-Bangladesh Friendship Exhibition Center (CBFEC) in Purbachal, Rupganj.

Describing the fair as a landmark in the country's commercial journey, the commerce adviser said the Dhaka International Trade Fair is not merely a product exhibition but a comprehensive showcase of Bangladesh's entrepreneurship, innovation, and overall trade development.

"The 30th edition of the Dhaka International Trade Fair is a milestone in the history of Bangladesh's trade and commerce. It reflects our progress in business, industry, and economic development, while highlighting our capacity to diversify production—from traditional handicrafts to modern, technology-driven products," he said while addressing the opening ceremony in the morning.

Bashir Uddin noted that Bangladesh has emerged as an important partner in global trade. 

He said the core objectives of organising the international trade fair include export product development and diversification, access to new global markets, strengthening market connectivity, enhancing economic diplomacy, expanding international cooperation, improving the country's global image, and attracting foreign investment to achieve sustainable economic growth.

He said the fair plays a vital role in strengthening Bangladesh's brand image and creating a positive perception of the country in the global arena.

Highlighting the long-standing role of the fair, the commerce adviser said DITF has consistently served as a platform connecting producers with consumers, entrepreneurs with investors, and Bangladesh with the global marketplace.

Referring to post-LDC graduation challenges, the adviser said that to sustain export growth, product development, diversification, and exploration of new markets are crucial strategies.

In this context, he mentioned that the first-ever "Global Sourcing Expo 2025 Dhaka" was organised at the same venue from December 1 to 3 last year, which helped introduce Bangladesh's production and export capabilities to local and international buyers, visitors, and importers. 

Similar initiatives will continue once or multiple times a year, he added.

The commerce adviser underscored the pivotal role of entrepreneurs in making the trade fair successful. 

Through showcasing the quality, innovation, and competitive strength of their products and services, entrepreneurs help project a positive image of the country, he said, adding that direct interaction with buyers, market analysis, negotiations, and order placements enable them to gain tangible commercial benefits.

He expressed optimism that participation in the fair would allow entrepreneurs to explore new markets, become familiar with international standards and technologies, and find opportunities for product development—thereby contributing significantly to export growth.

Bashir Uddin also said the government is implementing multifaceted programmes to diversify export products. Based on export contribution and potential, various sectors have been declared as 'Highest Priority Sectors' and 'Special Priority Sectors.'

To further boost export promotion and incentives, one product is declared annually as the 'Product of the Year' to encourage its production and marketing. 

"For 2026, 'Paper and Packaging Products' has been declared as the Product of the Year," he announced.

Originally scheduled to open on January 1, the inauguration of the trade fair was deferred to January 3 following the government's declaration of three days of national mourning over the death of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.

This year's fair has banned the use of polythene bags and single-use plastics. As an eco-friendly alternative, shopping bags will be supplied at subsidised rates through the Ministry of Jute and Textiles.

According to the layout plan, a total of 324 pavilions, stalls, and restaurants have been allocated to local manufacturers, exporters, general business entities, and foreign companies participating in the fair.