The Dhaka International Trade Fair is set to begin on January 1, 2025, in the eastern part of the capital.
This year’s fair will have fewer pavilions and stalls to ensure a more open layout, and a rest area for the elderly will be introduced.
Entrance tickets will be available through a dedicated app, which will also allow users to browse and purchase products from the stalls.
A special focus will be placed on commemorating the "anti-discrimination student movement" with a dedicated "Mugdha" corner at the fair.
This area will include a photo exhibition and seminars throughout the month-long event to honor the sacrifices of students.
The Export Development Bureau (EPB), which organizes the fair, is considering consulting movement coordinators to gather ideas for additional tributes.
The 28th edition of the fair, which moved to the Bangabandhu Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center (BBCFEC) in Purbachal in 2022, is expected to feature several new elements.
EPB Vice Chairman Anwar Hossain said that the fair will prioritise inclusivity with special digital platforms for children and teenagers and promote small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with dedicated spaces.
Regarding the layout, Anwar mentioned that discussions are ongoing, but the open-plan design will result in fewer stalls than in previous years.
Four seminars will be held over four weeks, focusing on promising products and sectors.
Asked about the inauguration, Anwar said that, typically, the head of government opens the fair, although final confirmation is pending.