The 30th Dhaka International Trade Fair, organized by the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) and the Ministry of Commerce, has largely turned into an entertainment venue rather than achieving its founding goal of promoting Bangladeshi products in global markets. Despite being labeled an international event, the fair now focuses more on local sales and leisure activities, with visitors describing it as resembling a street market. The fair, which began in 1995 to connect local entrepreneurs with foreign buyers, currently hosts 324 stalls but only 11 foreign pavilions, and the presence of international buyers is minimal.

Export-related stakeholders say the fair has failed to generate meaningful export orders, as most stalls sell locally produced or rejected goods instead of export-quality products. Business leaders and associations, including BGMEA and EAB, argue that specialized expos such as the Global Sourcing Expo are more effective for export promotion. EPB officials acknowledge challenges in attracting foreign participants due to visa, customs, and accommodation issues but maintain that the fair still serves as a branding and networking platform.

Experts suggest shortening the fair’s duration and introducing sector-based pavilions and business-to-business zones to restore its international relevance.