DHAKA, April 12, 2026 (BSS) - Industries and Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir today said that the SME and MSME sectors are the lifeline of the country’s economy, highlighting their vital contribution, particularly within the large informal segment. The Industries Minister made the remarks as the chief guest while inaugurating the seven-day-long “SME Boishakhi Fair 1433” on the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center premises in the capital this afternoon. The minister noted that a significant portion of Bangladesh’s economy operates in the informal sector, where SMEs play a crucial role in sustaining economic activities, generating employments, and promoting inclusive growth, said a press release. Referring to government initiatives, he said a Taka 300 crore credit wholesaling programme has recently been launched to support SME development while the fund is being channeled to entrepreneurs through around 15 banks and four financial institutions. He expressed hope that the allocation would be increased to Tk 2,000 crore in the future. Muktadir also emphasized that expanding the SME sector would help create jobs, diversify production, and engage more people in productive economic activities. He assured that the government would continue to play a supportive role and stand beside the entrepreneurs. He thanked the SME Foundation and all concerned for organizing the fair and extended greetings to the people on the eve of the Bangla New Year ‘Pohela Boishak’. The fair, being organized by the SME Foundation, is being held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center in the capital and will continue until April 18. It remains open to visitors from morning till night. Chaired by SME Foundation Chairperson and Industries Secretary Md. Obaidur Rahman, the special guest at the inaugural function was Board Member of the Foundation Shamim Ahmed. Managing Director Anwar Hossain Chowdhury delivered the welcome address. Speakers at the event said the fair has been arranged to celebrate the spirit of Bangla heritage, culture, and festivities, providing a joyful and safe environment for families and visitors to celebrate the New Year. More than 150 stalls have been set up at the fair, showcasing and selling a wide range of products including handicrafts, jute goods, ready-made garments and fashion items, agro-processed products, traditional heritage items, homemade food and street food, artificial jewellery, leather goods, perfumes, and lifestyle products.