DHAKA, Jan 3, 2026 (BSS) - The 30th edition of the Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) was inaugurated today at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Centre at Purbachal, Rupganj, Narayanganj.  Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin inaugurated the fair. Speaking on the occasion, he said the 30th edition of the DITF marks a milestone in the history of the country's trade and commerce, describing the fair as more than a mere product exhibition. "The trade fair is a platform showcasing Bangladesh's new initiatives, innovations and commercial development," he said.  The Commerce Adviser said Bangladesh has now become an important partner in global trade. He noted that the core objectives of organizing international trade fairs include export product development and diversification, entry into new international markets, market linkage, strengthening economic diplomacy, expanding international cooperation, improving the country's positive image abroad and attracting foreign investment to achieve sustainable economic growth. "The fair strengthens the country's brand image and helps create a positive perception of Bangladesh in the global arena," he added. Sk. Bashir Uddin said the Dhaka International Trade Fair has long been playing a vital role in connecting producers with consumers, entrepreneurs with investors and Bangladesh with global markets. He said the fair reflects the country's progress in trade, industry and economic development and demonstrates Bangladesh's capacity in product development and diversification-from traditional handicrafts to modern, technology-driven products. Referring to post-LDC graduation challenges, the adviser said that as part of appropriate strategies to sustain export growth, the first-ever international sourcing fair titled "Global Sourcing Expo 2025 Dhaka" was organized at the same venue from December 1 to 3 last year.  The event created ample opportunities to showcase Bangladesh's production and export capabilities to local and foreign visitors, buyers and importers. He added that similar events would be organized once or more every year. The Commerce Adviser emphasized the critical role of entrepreneurs in making the trade fair successful. Through showcasing product quality, innovation and competitiveness, entrepreneurs project the country's image, he said. He added that direct interaction with buyers; market analysis, negotiation and order placement at the fair enable entrepreneurs to reap tangible commercial benefits.  Participation in the fair would also help them gain insights into new markets, international standards and technologies, thereby contributing to export growth, he hoped. Highlighting various government initiatives to diversify export products, Sk. Bashir Uddin said various product sectors have been declared as "Highest Priority Sectors" and "Special Priority Sectors" based on their export contribution and potential.  As part of export promotion efforts, one product is declared as "Product of the Year" every year to encourage its production and marketing. "In this continuation, paper and packaging products have been declared as the 'Product of the Year 2026'," he announced.  Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) Vice Chairman Mohammad Hasan Arif delivered the welcome address at the function. Commerce Ministry Secretary Mahbubur Rahman and FBCCI Administrator Md Abdur Rahim Khan spoke as special guests. Earlier, the trade fair was scheduled to be inaugurated on January 1. However, the government declared three days of national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, prompting the rescheduling of the inauguration to January 3. Polyethylene bags and single-use plastics have been banned at this year's fair. Environment-friendly shopping bags will be supplied at reduced prices through the Ministry of Textiles and Jute as alternatives. According to the fair's layout plan, a total of 324 pavilions, stalls and restaurants have been allocated to local manufacturers, exporters, general business entities and foreign companies. The ticket prices at the fair have been fixed at Taka 50 for adults and Taka 25 for children. Freedom fighters, persons with disabilities and those injured in the July Uprising will be allowed free entry upon showing valid identification. The DITF has been organized regularly for the past 30 years since 1995 by the Ministry of Commerce and the Export Promotion Bureau, with the objective of promoting domestic products, boosting industrial production and generating employment.