The 28th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) is set to begin tomorrow at the month-long event's permanent venue in Purbachal.

The inaugural ceremony of the fair will take place at 10:30 am at the Bangabandhu Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Centre.
 
DITF is co-organised by the Ministry of Commerce and the Export Promotion Bureau.

Photo: Md Asaduz Zaman

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the fair as the chief guest, with State Minister for Commerce Ahsanul Islam presiding over the ceremony. 

The showcase normally begins on the first day of January, but this year it was delayed because of the January 7 election.

Speaking at the press conference, State Minister for Commerce Ahsanul Islam said the goal of the fair is to increase exports by showcasing local products.  

"We will focus more on tannery and jute products as part of diversification."

He also informed of a transport facility from Farmgate to Purbachal through the elevated expressway so that people from the capital can visit the fair easily. 

Islam also vowed to ensure fair prices at the exposition. 

Six countries -- Turkey, India, Pakistan, Singapore, Hong Kong and Iran -- alongside local companies are taking part in the fair where exhibitors will showcase products in 351 stalls, pavilions, and mini-pavilions.

There will also be a food court which can accommodate up to 500 people. There are also a prayer room, children's playground, media corner, office rooms, medical rooms, guestrooms for officials, and stores.

The parking area can provide facilities for 500 vehicles.

The fair will open at 10am and close at 9pm on weekdays. On weekends, the visitors can stay until 10pm.

The entry fee for adults has been fixed at Tk 50 while that for minors at Tk 25. Freedom fighters and the physically challenged can enter the venue without any fee. 

The Dhaka International Trade Fair was first held in 1995.