The New Year in Bangladesh will begin with one of the country’s most anticipated commercial and cultural showcases, as the 30th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) 2026 opens on 1 January at the Bangabandhu Bangladesh–China Friendship Exhibition Centre in Purbachal. The month-long fair will be formally inaugurated at 10:00 am by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, marking a milestone edition of an event that has become synonymous with trade, innovation and public celebration.
At a press conference held at the fairground on Monday (29 December), Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman outlined the overall preparations and key attractions of this year’s fair. Senior officials present included Hasan Arif, Vice-Chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), Abdur Rahim Khan, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, and Baby Rani Karmakar, Director General of the EPB.
A Celebration of History, Trade and Progress
One of the standout features of this year’s fair is the specially designed “Bangladesh Square”, which blends commerce with national heritage. Visitors will be able to view photographic exhibitions commemorating the Language Movement of 1952, the Liberation War of 1971, and the martyrs and injured of the July 2024 mass uprising. The initiative aims to connect younger generations with pivotal moments in the nation’s history while attending a modern trade exhibition.
In addition, a dedicated “Export Enclave” has been created to showcase Bangladesh’s growing export capacity, highlighting sectors such as ready-made garments, jute products, leather goods and emerging industrial innovations.
Transport, Tickets and Visiting Hours
To ensure smooth access for visitors, more than 200 shuttle buses operated by BRTC will run daily between key locations and the fairground from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm. Affordable fares have been fixed for routes from Kuril, Farmgate, Narayanganj, Narsingdi and other major points. Ride-sharing platform Pathao will also provide discounted travel options.
Entry tickets have been priced at BDT 50 for adults and BDT 25 for children under 12. Freedom fighters, persons with disabilities and those injured in the July movement will be granted free entry upon presentation of valid identification. To reduce queues, an e-ticketing system will once again be available.
The fair will remain open daily from 10:00 am to 9:50 pm, extending to 10:00 pm on weekends.
Products, Sustainability and Safety
Visitors can expect a vast range of products, including textiles, machinery, electronics, furniture, cosmetics, handicrafts, processed foods, home décor and much more. Notably, the fair has been declared completely polythene- and single-use plastic-free. Environment-friendly shopping bags supplied through the Ministry of Jute and Textiles will be used instead.
To protect consumers, mobile courts will operate daily to monitor food quality and prevent adulteration.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 30th Dhaka International Trade Fair |
| Venue | Bangabandhu Bangladesh–China Friendship Exhibition Centre, Purbachal |
| Opening Date | 1 January 2026 |
| Duration | One month |
| Inaugurated by | Professor Muhammad Yunus |
| Ticket Price | BDT 50 (adults), BDT 25 (children) |
| Special Features | Bangladesh Square, Export Enclave |
| Environmental Policy | Plastic-free fair |
| Foreign Participants | 11 companies from 6 countries |
First launched in 1995 by the Ministry of Commerce and the Export Promotion Bureau, the Dhaka International Trade Fair has grown into a flagship national event. This year’s participation by 11 foreign companies from six countries, including India, Turkey and Singapore, underscores its increasing international relevance. As ever, the fair promises a vibrant blend of business, culture and entertainment for visitors of all ages.