The exhibition titled 'Bangla Optica-2005', the 7th version of the show, was organised by Bangladesh Optical Industries and Traders Association (Boita). The fair is showcasing a variety of optical products of 28 local companies including three foreign companies in 30 stalls.

Commerce Minister Altaf Hossain Choudhury inaugurated the fair at Hotel Razmoni Ishakha, while Commerce Ministry Advisor Barkat Ullah Bulu was present as special guest.

The organisers, at the inaugural function, urged the government to reduce import duty from 15 percent to 7.5 percent on raw materials of plastic lense. They also asked the government to increase export cash incentive from the existing 10 percent to 20 percent.

President of Boita Manjurul Hoque Sikder said Bangladeshi companies produce high quality lens and frames. Local manufacturers last year exported spectacles' frames worth $1 lakh to South Korea, Nepal, India and Saudi Arabia.

Addressing the function, the commerce minister assured the manufacturers of all possible facilities to promote the industry. He advised them to place their demands to commerce ministry through Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI).

The exposition will remain open to businesspersons from 10:00am to 8:00pm everyday.