The government declared paper and packaging products on Saturday as the Product of the Year 2026 at the inauguration of the 30th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF), describing the event as a milestone in Bangladesh’s business and trade history.
Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin made the announcement while inaugurating the fair at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Centre in Purbachal’s Rupganj area of Narayanganj. Presiding over the opening ceremony, he said the DITF is not merely a product showcase but a platform that reflects Bangladesh’s entrepreneurship, innovation and commercial progress.
“Bangladesh is now an important partner in global trade,” the adviser said, adding that the fair aims to promote export development and diversification, expand access to new international markets, strengthen economic diplomacy, enhance global cooperation and attract foreign investment to achieve sustainable economic growth.
He noted that hosting such fairs helps strengthen the country’s brand image and fosters a positive perception of Bangladesh abroad.
Sheikh Bashir Uddin said the DITF has long served as a bridge connecting producers with consumers, entrepreneurs with investors, and Bangladesh with global markets. The fair, he added, highlights the country’s progress in trade and industry—ranging from traditional handicrafts to modern, technology-driven products—and showcases Bangladesh’s growing capacity for diversified production.
Referring to preparations for the post-LDC graduation phase, the commerce adviser said product development, diversification and exploration of new markets are crucial to sustaining export growth.
In this context, he cited the successful hosting of the “Global Sourcing Expo 2025 Dhaka” at the same venue from December 1 to 3 last year, which introduced international buyers and visitors to Bangladesh’s manufacturing and export potential. Similar sourcing events will continue once or more each year, he added.
Emphasising the role of entrepreneurs, Sheikh Bashir Uddin said exhibitors play a vital part in projecting the country’s image by demonstrating quality, innovation and competitiveness.
Through direct engagement with buyers, market analysis, negotiation and order placement, entrepreneurs can reap tangible commercial benefits, he said, expressing hope that active participation will contribute significantly to export growth.
As part of export diversification efforts, the government annually designates a Product of the Year to encourage production and marketing of high-potential sectors, alongside identifying “highest priority” and “special priority” export sectors.
“Considering contribution and future potential, paper and packaging products have been declared the Product of the Year for 2026,” the adviser announced.
Export Promotion Bureau Vice-Chairman Mohammad Hasan Arif delivered the welcome address, while Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman and FBCCI Administrator Md Abdur Rahim Khan spoke as special guests.
The fair’s opening was postponed from January 1 to January 3 following the government’s declaration of three days of national mourning after the death of former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
This year’s DITF has banned polythene bags and single-use plastics. Environment-friendly shopping bags will be supplied at subsidised prices through the Ministry of Textiles and Jute.
According to the layout plan, 324 pavilions, stalls and restaurants have been allocated to local manufacturers and exporters, general business entities, and foreign companies.