Dhaka: The construction of stalls and pavilions for the Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) has gathered pace as the opening day of the next edition approaches fast.

Organisers and participants say they are optimistic that the installation work will be completed well before the fair begins on January 9 at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. The venue will permanently be shifted to Purbachal from 2021, reports the UNB.

Director General of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) Avijit Chowdhury told UNB that they have recently visited the fair ground and are happy with the way things are moving.

‘This year, local and foreign traders will showcase their products at more than 500 stalls and pavilions,’ he said.

Polls push back opening date

This time, the opening date has been pushed back by a week as Bangladesh’s next national election will be held on December 30.

Avijit explained that it was not possible to follow the normal schedule and organise the fair on January 1 like previous years.

‘Organising the fair a day after the national election will be impossible, since the law enforcement and government officials will remain busy,’ he told UNB. ‘The Prime Minister’s Office has permitted us to start the fair on January 9.’

Local brands getting ready for showoff

Several popular local brands, including Walton and Pran, have been showcasing their long lines of products featuring home accessories, electronics and food items every year.

‘Walton always tries to offer new things. We’ll launch special products this time, too,’ Group Executive Director (Public Relations, Media and Branding) Humayun Kabir told UNB.

Walton said it has been constructing its pavilion since last month and expects that the work to be completed within December. ‘We’re constructing a two-storey pavilion and a three-storey one boasting unique and modern architectural designs,’ Kabir said.

He hoped Walton will attract a large number of visitors like previous years.

PRAN-RFL Group is also getting ready. Its home accessories were among some of the popular items at the last trade fair.

KM Zeaul Haque, the Group’s assistant general manager (public relation department), said their pavilions will be completed soon and hinted at introducing new items.