With a burst of enthusiasm and high expectations, the 28th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF)-2024 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at the Bangabandhu Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center in Purbachal New Town. This month-long event, organized collaboratively by the Ministry of Commerce and the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), promises an extensive showcase of diverse local and international products. The standout feature of this year’s fair is Prime Minister Hasina’s declaration of handicrafts as the product of the year 2024, underscoring its potential to contribute significantly to women empowerment, employment, and self-reliance.
In her opening address, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina emphasized the pivotal role of handicrafts in promoting women’s empowerment. The decision to designate handicrafts as the product of the year reflects the government’s commitment to encouraging the production and sale of traditional crafts, particularly those crafted by skilled women artisans. With deep ties to cultural heritage, handicraft promotion not only preserves traditional skills but also serves as a catalyst for economic growth. The government’s investment in this sector seeks to economically empower women, providing them with opportunities for income generation and fostering self-reliance.
The inauguration ceremony saw the participation of key figures, including State Minister for Commerce Ahsanul Islam, Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce Tapan Kanti Ghosh, and Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) President Mahbubul Alam. Their speeches underscored the trade fair’s significance in fostering economic development, promoting international collaboration, and showcasing Bangladesh’s advancements in trade and commerce.
The DITF-2024 boasts participation from various countries, including Turkey, India, Pakistan, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Iran. This international presence not only enriches the diversity of products on display but also facilitates cross-cultural exchange and trade collaboration. Foreign companies have been allocated 351 stalls, including 16-18 pavilions, showcasing a broad spectrum of products spanning textiles, machineries, carpets, cosmetics, electrical and electronics, and more.
A noteworthy feature of the event was the screening of a video documentary showcasing the government’s measures taken over the past 15 years to develop and expand trade and business. The documentary aimed to highlight the progress made in attracting local and foreign investments, emphasizing the country’s commitment to creating a conducive business environment.
The fair promises a comprehensive display of products, encompassing local textiles, machineries, carpets, cosmetics, electrical and electronics, jute and jute products, household goods, leather goods, sports equipment, sanitary ware, toys, stationery, crockery, plastic, melamine polymer, herbal and toiletries, imitation jewellery, processed food, fast food, handicrafts, home decor, furniture, and more. This diverse range caters to the varied tastes and preferences of both local and international visitors.
To enhance the visitor experience, the fair has set a reasonable entry fee of Tk 50 for general visitors and Tk 25 for children below 12 years. Operating hours are from 10 am to 9 pm on weekdays, with extended hours until 10 pm on weekends. Special transportation arrangements, including buses from Farmgate to connect with Metrorail and Elevate Expressway, have been made to facilitate easy travel to the fair.
The 28th Dhaka International Trade Fair of 2024 emerges not just as a platform for showcasing products and fostering trade but also as a catalyst for promoting women’s empowerment, employment, and self-reliance through the spotlight on handicrafts. The government’s dedication to economic development and international collaboration is evident in the diverse range of products and the participation of companies from various countries. As visitors explore the stalls and pavilions, the fair becomes a microcosm of Bangladesh’s economic growth and cultural richness. This month-long event holds the promise of strengthening local industries, creating business opportunities, and leaving a lasting impact on both national and international fronts.
Just wanted to express my sincere appreciation for the captivating read. This article on Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was truly enjoyable and educative in every aspect! Thank you for generously sharing your valuable insights.