DHAKA: Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus has advocated for the organization of trade fairs at district and upazila levels to foster entrepreneurship among the youth. Speaking at the inauguration of the Dhaka International Trade Fair 2025 in Purbachal, he emphasized the government's role in facilitating these events.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Yunus highlighted the importance of leveraging the potential of Bangladesh's youthful population, which comprises a significant portion of the country's 17 crore citizens. He proposed a framework where local trade fairs would serve as a preliminary stage, culminating in a central fair in Dhaka. This, he suggested, would provide opportunities for young entrepreneurs to learn, share knowledge, and gain recognition.
Dr. Yunus underscored the necessity of designating specific spaces for individuals under 25 at these fairs, acknowledging their contributions to various sectors such as agriculture, handicrafts, cottage industries, and ICT. He noted the global reach of young entrepreneurs who are creating and exporting software from home. By organizing competitions at the upazila level, promising participants could be identified and invited to the central fair.
He further asserted that financial constraints should not deter aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the role of innovation and intelligence in achieving success. Dr. Yunus highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit of young women who manage successful businesses from home, such as selling saris and providing home-cooked meals. He called for these efforts to be showcased to inspire others.
The chief adviser also stressed the importance of innovation and the expansion of export baskets. He noted that the government is committed to enhancing the capabilities of service-providing organizations to improve export quality and efficiency. During the event, Dr. Yunus declared furniture as the product of the year and urged the announcement of an entrepreneur of the year.
Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin, Commerce Secretary Abdur Rahim Khan, and Vice-Chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau Md Anwar Hossain were among the speakers at the ceremony. The Ministry of Commerce and the Export Promotion Bureau are jointly organizing the month-long trade fair, which will feature special areas honoring historical student movements and will remain open daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, with extended hours on weekends.