EPB vice chairman calls for export diversification, professionalism at global trade fairs

Hasan Arif, vice chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau, today (10 May) stressed the need to diversify Bangladesh's export basket and adopt a more professional approach to participating in international trade fairs to remain competitive in the global market.

Speaking at a seminar titled "Effective Participation in International Trade Fair" at Hotel Agrabad in Chattogram, he warned that Bangladesh's heavy dependence on the readymade garment sector leaves the economy vulnerable to external shocks.

The seminar was jointly organised by the EPB and the Chattogram Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Chaired by CWCCI President Abida Mostafa, the event was also addressed by former Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association vice presidents SM Abu Tayyab and Nasir Uddin Chowdhury, Sayed Tanvir, managing director of Pacific Jeans, EPB Director General Baby Rani Karmakar, CWCCI Senior Vice President Luthmela Farid and former CWCCI president Monwara Hakim Ali.

Hasan Arif said the readymade garment industry currently accounts for around 81.5% of Bangladesh's nearly $48 billion annual export earnings, creating what he described as a "contracted export basket."

He also expressed concern over market concentration, noting that nearly 44% of Bangladesh's exports are destined for the European Union at a time when competing countries are securing more favourable free trade agreements.

"If global supply chains are disrupted or tariff structures change, Bangladesh faces significant risks because of its dependence on a limited number of products and markets," he said.

Highlighting opportunities in non-traditional sectors, Arif said agro-products, particularly fruits, are showing strong export potential. According to him, fruit exports reached around $100 million during the first 10 months of the current fiscal year through April.

He said products such as custard apple, cashew nuts and coffee offer higher local value addition compared to industries that rely heavily on imported raw materials.

The EPB vice chairman also announced enhanced support for women entrepreneurs, saying the bureau can provide up to a 60% concession for female participants at international trade fairs.

Expressing disappointment over the relatively low participation of Chattogram-based businesses at recent global exhibitions, he urged the CWCCI to play a stronger leadership role in promoting exporters from the region.

A major focus of his speech was the need for preparation and professionalism before attending international fairs.

"International trade fairs are not sightseeing events," he said, adding that exporters should spend at least two to four months researching market demand, consumer preferences and cultural practices before joining exhibitions abroad.

Citing examples, he said products designed for the Japanese market should favour lighter and minimalist colour schemes rather than the bright, colourful designs commonly preferred in Bangladesh.

He also highlighted the importance of business etiquette in international markets, particularly in Japan, where improper handling of business cards can negatively affect professional relationships.

To improve Bangladesh's performance at global exhibitions, the EPB is considering expanding its annual trade fair calendar from the current 46 events to more than 50 fairs selected from around 200 international options.

Arif also announced that the EPB is preparing a standard operating procedure (SOP) for participation in international fairs. The proposed guideline will define the responsibilities of exporters, EPB officials and commercial counsellors at Bangladeshi missions abroad to ensure better coordination before, during and after trade events.