The month-long 30th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) 2026 opened today at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Centre in Purbachal, positioning itself as a more technology-driven, export-oriented, and environmentally responsible platform than in previous years.

Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin is scheduled to inaugurate the trade fair at 10:00 am.

The event was originally slated to begin on January 1, but it was rescheduled to Saturday following the death of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.

In a message issued on Wednesday, December 31, the Chief Adviser said that the interim government remains firmly committed to safeguarding economic stability and achieving the desired growth.

Professor Yunus described the fair as “a unique initiative that will showcase Bangladesh’s immense potential on the global stage.”

Extending his warm greetings and congratulations, he said, “On the occasion of the 30th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) 2026, I convey my sincere felicitations to all local and foreign industrial entrepreneurs, investors, businesspeople, and visitors participating in the fair. This fair is a unique initiative that will showcase Bangladesh’s immense potential on the global stage,” he said, adding that he expects the event to play a vital role in expanding production, creating jobs, and strengthening Bangladesh’s presence in international markets.

Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman announced that the use of single-use plastic and polythene bags has been completely banned at this year’s fair. Stalls found violating the rule will be disqualified from awards, while affordable jute bags are being supplied through a joint initiative of the Jute Diversification Promotion Center and the Ministry of Textiles and Jute.

For the first time, the fair has introduced an e-ticketing system, enabling visitors to purchase tickets online and enter through QR-code scanning, alongside conventional on-site ticketing. Stall and pavilion allocation was also completed digitally, reflecting the organisers’ push towards automation and transparency.

This year’s DITF features 324 stalls and pavilions, including 11 foreign stalls and pavilions, allowing the event to be formally recognised as an international trade fair.

A new highlight is the “Export Enclave – Best of Bangladesh”, showcasing top products from seven export-oriented sectors, such as leather and footwear, and light engineering, designed to strengthen engagement with foreign buyers.

Organisers have introduced a dedicated “Bangladesh Square”, featuring photo exhibitions on the 1952 Language Movement, the 1971 Liberation War, and the martyrs and injured of the July 2024 movement, underscoring the fair’s role as a platform for national identity alongside commerce.

Sector-based seminars and workshops will run throughout the month to highlight product quality and international compliance standards. Special zones for electronics and furniture, seating corners for senior citizens, two children’s parks, and an open cultural centre have also been added.

First launched in 1995 under the joint initiative of the Ministry of Commerce and the Export Promotion Bureau, the Dhaka International Trade Fair has grown into one of Bangladesh’s most enduring annual economic events. It is designed to promote domestic products, support production, create employment, and expand export marketing.

With its renewed emphasis on export promotion, sustainability, digitalisation, and visitor experience, DITF 2026 is being positioned not just as a seasonal attraction but as a strategic instrument in Bangladesh’s drive to deepen global trade linkages and project its manufacturing and innovation capabilities to the world.