31st Chattogram International Trade Fair kicks off
Guest of honor M A Latif MP praised Bangladesh's economic growth under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and stressed the significance of showcasing a diverse range of domestic export products at international trade fairs
The 31st Chittagong International Trade Fair 2024 (CITF) began at the Railway Pologround in the port city Friday (16 February) evening, through a grand opening ceremony hosted by the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI).
Education Minister Mohibul Hassan Chowdhoury delivered the keynote address as the chief guest remotely.
He emphasised the government's commitment to ensuring food security for all citizens and urged traders and consumers to exercise restraint during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan.
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State Minister of Commerce Ahasanul Islam Titu addressed the ceremony as special guest, while Chattogram-11 Constituency MP MA Latif was guest of honour.
The state minister highlighted the government's focus on promoting traditional handicrafts from every village and emphasised the importance of expanding export opportunities for these products globally.
MA Latif praised Bangladesh's economic growth under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and stressed the significance of showcasing a diverse range of domestic export products at international trade fairs.
Additionally, Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) President Mahbubul Alam and Indian Assistant High Commissioner in Chattogram Rajeev Ranjan were present as distinguished guests.
Mahbubul Alam advocated for the automation of regulatory bodies within the Ministry of Commerce to facilitate ease of doing business and urged the government to address essential utility crises in Chattogram's industrial areas.
Rajeev Ranjan commended the flourishing India-Bangladesh relations and highlighted the vast opportunities presented by trade fairs.
The opening ceremony also saw the participation of various prominent figures, including CITF-2024 Committee Chairman AKM Akter Hossain, co-chairmen, chamber directors, former directors, honorary consuls, senior government officials, trade body leaders, civil society representatives, and delegates from participating institutions.
CCCI President Omar Hajjaz reflected on the journey of the fair over the past three decades and called for the allocation of government land in Chattogram to establish a permanent exhibition and convention centre.
The fair features a dedicated Bangabandhu Pavilion, showcasing the life and legacy of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, along with exhibits commemorating the Liberation War.
With 16 premier pavilions, 56 premier stalls, 94 gold stalls, 48 mega stalls, and 11 food stalls spread across 4 lakh square feet, CITF promises a diverse array of products and services from entrepreneurs and businessmen hailing from India, Thailand, Iran, and domestic regions. The fair, operating from 10am to 10pm daily, aims to attract millions of visitors seeking to explore and procure their favourite products.
Since its inception in 1993, CITF has served as a cornerstone event organised by the CCCI to bolster the promotion of local products and foster economic growth. This year, small and medium entrepreneurs from across the country will showcase their offerings, further enriching the fair's appeal.
