11 Bangladeshi apparel firms join Saudi Arabia fashion and textiles expo

11 Bangladeshi apparel companies are showcasing their products at the Saudi Arabia International Fashion and Textiles Exhibition in Jeddah, seeking to expand their presence in the Saudi and wider Middle Eastern markets.

A Bangladesh pavilion has been set up at the Jeddah International Exhibition and Convention Centre with financial support from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) and assistance from the Ministry of Commerce and the Bangladesh Consulate General in Jeddah.

Jeddah Chamber of Commerce Vice Chairman Imad Mohammad Al Aboud inaugurated the four-day exhibition yesterday (24 September).

Later, Bangladesh Consul General Shakhawat Hossain and Osama Kouakandi, a member of the Saudi Federation of Chambers and executive board member of the Saudi Regional Business Council for South East Asia, jointly inaugurated the Bangladesh pavilion.

Commercial Counsellor Syeda Nahida Habiba, consulate officials, Saudi businessmen, importers, expatriate businesspeople and investors were also present.

The participating Bangladeshi companies are Zakaria Knitwear Ltd, Aleya Apparels Ltd, MSAH-Q Apparels, Modest Attire by Jahan, Eton Fashions Ltd, Swapnil House, Bonum Garments Ltd, Bell Bottom Ltd, Marker, Saoda Fashion and Al Noor Garments Ltd.

The EPB is also operating a separate booth featuring documentaries and information on Bangladesh's heritage, production capacity and exportable products.

According to organiser Pyramids Group, the exhibition features more than 550 booths, with around 10,000 trade visitors and buyers from more than 25 countries expected to attend.

Bangladeshi industry stakeholders hope the exhibition will help local apparel and textile companies connect with new buyers in Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern markets.

The exhibition will continue until 27 September.