National Furniture Fair begins in Dhaka

The five-day 20th National Furniture Fair 2025 begins at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in Dhaka today.

A total of 48 leading furniture companies and brands, including Akhtar, Hatil, Brothers, Nadia, Ayoto, Omega, JMG, Navana, Athena's, Partex, Regal, and Legacy, are participating in this year's fair.

Exhibitors are showcasing their latest designs and innovative products across 278 stalls.

Sheikh Bashir Uddin, adviser to the Ministry of Commerce, inaugurated the fair as chief guest, according to a press release.

In his speech, the commerce adviser said Bangladesh could secure a stronger position in the global furniture market by capitalising on its local opportunities and resources.

He expressed optimism about the sector's growth potential and urged entrepreneurs to increase their investments. He also highlighted plans to use such fairs as platforms to expand export markets and promote more trade exhibitions in the future.

Organised by Bangladesh Furniture Industries Owners Association (BFIOA), the inaugural ceremony was presided over by Selim H Rahman, chairman of the BFIOA.

Mohammad Hasan Arif, vice-chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau, said export diversification is essential to boosting national income. He added that the furniture industry is a promising sector that can achieve international standards by harnessing local raw materials, modern technology, and skilled labour.

KM Akhtaruzzaman, president of the Bangladesh Furniture Exporters Association; Sheikh Abdul Awal, vice-chairman and convener of the fair committee; Mohammad Maksudur Rahman, organisational secretary of BFIOA; A Karim Mojumdar, general secretary; and Md Elias Sarkar, senior vice-chairman of the association, along with other industry leaders, were also present.