The South Asia Trade Fair 2025 was jointly organized by SCCI and FBCCI in Dhaka, Bangladesh with the objective of promoting intra-regional trade and economic integration among SAARC member states. The fair provided a high-impact platform for showcasing South Asia’s diverse industrial and export potential, with a particular focus on the empowerment of women entrepreneurs and the promotion of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as key drivers of inclusive and sustainable economic growth in the region.

The event was held at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in collaboration with the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), with the support of the Ministry of Commerce, Government of Bangladesh.

Mr. Mahbubur Rahman, Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Bangladesh officially inaugurated the trade fair. Mr. Md. Jashim Uddin, President, SCCI, Mr. Md. Alamgir, Secretary General, FBCCI, and Mr. Bhavesh R. Trivedi, Director (Economy, Trade and Finance), SAARC Secretariat addressing the occasion highlighted the necessity of regional economic integration and the importance of such platforms in promoting intra-regional trade.

Mr. Md. Jashim Uddin, President, SCCI emphasized the importance of enhanced institutional collaboration among SAARC member states in view of the evolving global trade landscape. “SCCI’s will remain committed to fostering a more integrated regional economy through collective efforts and sustained engagement” he reaffirmed.

Mr. Hasan Arif, Vice Chairman, EPB commended the initiative and encouraged to organize similar exhibitions not only at the bilateral level but also in major international trade hubs such as Dubai to enhance the visibility of South Asian products globally.

Mr. Bhavesh R. Trivedi, Director (Economy, Trade & Finance), SAARC Secretariat, said that South Asia has been contributing in Asia’s economy, meaningfully.“SAARC is committed to promote foreign and direct investment for more prosperous South Asia. Our collective capacity cannot be underestimated, and through dialogue, we can unlock the region’s full potential,” he added.

The trade fair featured noteworthy participation from SAARC member countries, showcasing diverse industrial capabilities. The Pakistan Pavilion highlighted a strong competitive edge in textiles and apparel, gems and jewelry, and electronics. Exhibitors from Afghanistan displayed a wide variety of dry fruits, tea, and agro-based products, while Sri Lanka focused on tea, spices and gems.

The fair attracted an average of 10,000 visitor’s daily, including government dignitaries, business leaders, diplomats, and local buyers and served as a dynamic platform for strengthening regional trade linkages and exploring new business opportunities across South Asia.Beyond enhanced engagement among SAARC member states, the event delivered tangible outcomes, most notably a positive trade breakthrough between Bangladesh and Pakistan, marked by renewed business-to-business interactions, strengthened institutional dialogue, and improved market connectivity.

Overall, the South Asia Trade Fair 2025 successfully showcased the region’s economic potential and reaffirmed the collective commitment of SAARC nations to deeper economic integration and sustainable, inclusive growth.