Dhaka Int'l Trade Fair becomes weekend getaway for families

The Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) 2025 has become a vibrant weekend attraction for families, drawing large crowds to the Bangabandhu Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center (BCFEC) in Purbachal despite its distance from central Dhaka.

Eighteen days into the month-long event, the fair became a bustling hub on Friday and Saturday, with visitors eager to shop, explore, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Sarah, a resident of Shyamoli, said, "I came with my husband and children, and it's been a great experience. Although the venue is far, the well-maintained roads made our journey smooth."

Moinul Hasan from Goran, visiting for the first time since the venue moved to Purbachal, said, "It's not as convenient for Dhaka residents as the Agargaon location was. I used to visit frequently before, but now it's harder to attend."

Najat and Nihan, enjoying the outing with their parents, said, "We're having so much fun! We had ice cream, and we're buying toys. We want to come again."

As the day progresses, crowds continue to grow, especially around toy shops, food stalls, and grocery outlets.

However, some sellers expressed concern about sales performance.

They said many visitors were there to look around rather than shop.

The distance might be a factor for fewer purchases compared to previous years, they said.

The month-long exhibition will conclude on 31 January.

A total of 327 stalls and pavilions have been allocated for this year's event, featuring exhibitors from Bangladesh and seven other countries. Eleven foreign companies are set to showcase their products and services, adding an international flavour to the fair, according to the officials.

The pavilion and stall allocation process, along with ticketing, has been fully digitised for the first time. This online approach is expected to streamline the experience for both exhibitors and visitors.

This year, the trade fair includes several new features commemorating the martyrs of the July-August uprising, officials said.

They said two special corners, named after Shaheed Abu Sayeed and Shaheed Mir Mughad, are being established to honour their sacrifices.

A Youth Pavilion has also been introduced, designed to inspire and engage attendees.