The South Asia Trade Fair 2025, a four-day event showcasing the best brands and products from SAARC nations, began on Thursday at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in Dhaka.

The fair brings together a wide range of products under one roof, including fashion and lifestyle items, electronics, cosmetics, jewelry, processed foods, technology, home appliances, and kitchenware.

Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman formally inaugurated the fair on Thursday morning. Organised by the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), the event is supported by the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), the Ministry of Commerce, and the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB).

In his opening speech, Secretary Rahman described the fair as an important platform for exchanging ideas, knowledge, technology, and experience among South Asian countries, businesses, and entrepreneurs.

He expressed hope that this gathering would further strengthen regional trade and economic cooperation.

Rahman added, “Other global economic blocs were formed by overcoming barriers and expanding trade among themselves. In South Asia, we have yet to practice this fully. It is time we work together to build a strong economic alliance.”

EPB Vice Chairman Hasan Arif suggested organising similar trade fairs not only bilaterally but also in major international hubs like Dubai.

He highlighted EPB’s plans to involve local entrepreneurs in branding their products and services globally.

SCCI President Md Jashim Uddin stressed the need for stronger organisational efforts, noting that global trade is changing rapidly and presenting new challenges.

He called for regional businesses to work collectively, pointing to South Asia’s diverse resources, raw materials, and workforce as key strengths.

Speaking at the event, Bhavesh R Trivedi, director of economy, trade and finance at the SAARC Secretariat, said South Asia makes a significant contribution to Asia’s economy.

He emphasised that stronger networking and connectivity within the region could unlock vast trade potential.

Meanwhile, FBCCI Secretary General Md Alamgir urged SAARC nations to reduce trade deficits among themselves, remove barriers, and build bridges to transform South Asia into a robust economic bloc.

The opening ceremony was attended by business leaders from various chambers and associations, diplomats, and representatives from SCCI and FBCCI, among others.