Online plastics fair from July 5

The 15th Bangladesh International Plastics, Printing and Packaging Industry Fair (IPF) will begin on July 5.

The announcement came at a press conference at InterContinental Dhaka yesterday when Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi was present as chief guest.

The four-day fair, to be held virtually due to the coronavirus situation, will be jointly organised by the Bangladesh Plastic Goods Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BPGMEA) and Yorkers Trade and Marketing Service Company.

"The plastic industry is already recognised as a thrust sector and we are hoping that it may take the lead when it comes to export earnings and become the prime exporter in the future," Munshi said.

The government formulated the country's export policy with plastics, leather, and agriculture being the priority sectors.

The fair, which will feature a variety of top quality plastic, printing, and packaging products, will widen the scope to develop the local plastic industry.

The sector has huge potential and is capable of making a significant contribution to expedite economic growth and product diversification, he added.

The fair's main goal is to provide a captivating platform for companies, both large and small, to showcase products and build their brand image as well as form partnerships.

Exhibitors will be able to effectively showcase their products by using the virtual booths with texts, photos and videos. Visitors will be able to easily find their ideal products with an interest recommendation function and interact with potential suppliers directly via live chat and video call.

At the same time, there will be a series of online keynote speeches and seminars for sharing industry insights and up-to-date technology with attendees.

More than 483 companies from 19 countries and regions around the world will participate in the virtual fair to help their business expand in Bangladesh's market.

Suppliers from all over the world will interact with local customers and develop new cooperation opportunities.

The government is emphasising on export diversification with the plastic sector being considered as a potential sector for export development. So, it has been given the highest priority in the export policy, Munshi said.

Jashim Uddin, president of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), said the IPF online expo will be an ideal platform for exhibitors to increase their experience in the international market and reach a large number of potential customers.

Judy Wang, president of the Yorkers Trade and Marketing Service,  and Shamim Ahmed, president of the Bangladesh Plastic Goods Manufacturers and Exporters Association, ‍also spoke.