DITF hit hard due to countrywide blockade this year

Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) 2015 witnessed low number of visitors putting the traders in dire straits. This year the inflow of visitors into the fair came down to over 70 percent due to the nationwide blockade coupled with strikes.

The participants said sales and orders had dropped by around 70 per cent this year comparing to that of last year for a low turnout of visitors.

Most of the participants expressed their utter frustration on Friday as their sales and orders from consumers fell short of expectations, resulting in huge losses every day.

Mohammad Alamin, area manager of Smartex, a local readymade garment brand said that every year they take part in the DITF. This year their sales of products have dropped by more than 75 percent comparing to previous years.

Due to a sharp fall in sales, they were offering discounts on their products, but they were not seeing customers as per their expectations.

Abdul Khaleque, a salesman of new brand, said Friday was weekly holiday, but there was a low turnout of visitors. Due to the blockade enforced by the BNP-led 20-party alliance since January 6, the people cannot visit the fair.

Some 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, China, Malaysia, Iran, Thailand, the USA, Turkey, Singapore, Australia, the UK, the UAE, South Korea and Germany are showcasing their products at the month long fair.

Local and international participants were displaying a wide range of products, including textiles and garments, leather & leather goods such as footwear, machinery equipment, pharmaceuticals, carpets, chemical & allied products, cosmetics & beauty aids, dairy products, electrical and electronic items, food stuff, gift & novelty items, handicrafts, household appliances, furniture, building materials, sports goods, sanitary ware, toys and stationery, watches and jewellery at the fair.