Published: 11:53 PM, 21 July 2026
Bangladesh to participate in 50 int'l trade fairs: Commerce Minister
Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has announced that Bangladesh will participate in 50 international trade fairs as part of a government initiative to strengthen the country's export base, attract new investment, and foster a more business-friendly environment.
The minister made the announcement on Tuesday while chairing the 149th meeting of the Board of Directors of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) at the bureau's conference room in the capital.
He said the government is undertaking comprehensive reforms to simplify the process of starting and operating businesses, making it faster and more efficient. These measures, he noted, will enhance Bangladesh's attractiveness as a destination for both domestic and foreign investors.
Highlighting the country's export potential, Abdul Muktadir identified the leather, agro-processing, and light engineering industries as key sectors capable of achieving double-digit export growth in the coming years. He stressed the importance of creating greater opportunities for young entrepreneurs and startups to access international markets. According to the minister, they should receive the necessary support to connect with global buyers, participate in overseas trade events, and expand their export capacity. "Many aspiring entrepreneurs launch businesses but lack the resources to travel abroad, explore new markets, or establish connections with international buyers," he said. "This is where institutional support becomes crucial." The commerce minister said the EPB will play a pivotal role in helping emerging entrepreneurs overcome these barriers and integrate into global value chains. The meeting also approved the formation of the steering committee for the 31st Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) 2027. Among those present at the meeting were Commerce Secretary Md. Ataur Rahman Khan, EPB Vice Chairman Mohammad Hasan Arif, Additional Secretary Ayesha Akhter and other senior officials.
