The 29th Annual US Trade Show, jointly organized by the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) and the United States Embassy, Dhaka, is set to take place over three days at the InterContinental Hotel, Dhaka, from May 9 to May 11, 2024.

During a press conference held at the InterContinental Hotel, Dhaka, today, AmCham President Syed Ershad Ahmed and US Embassy Commercial Counselor John Fay provided insights into the upcoming trade show.

This year's Trade Show coincides with World Trade Month (May), a significant event recognized in the US since 1938, emphasizing the importance of international trade to the US economy. Since its inception in 1992, this three-day exhibition has become Bangladesh's premier annual business event, attracting thousands of visitors each time. The inauguration ceremony will be graced by Salman Fazlur Rahman, Private Industry and Investment Adviser to the Prime Minister, as the chief guest, with Zunaid Ahmed Palak, State Minister of the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, attending as a special guest on May 9 at 10:30 a.m. at the venue.

AmCham President Syed Ershad Ahmed and US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter D. Haas will also be present at the inaugural function.

Executive Director of AmCham Md Shahadat Hossen disclosed that this year's Trade Show will feature hundreds of US products represented by 44 exhibitors from home and abroad, occupying 79 booths.

Responding to queries, US Embassy Commercial Counselor John Fay emphasized the US's status as the largest investor in Bangladesh, with investments exceeding $4 billion and continuing to grow. He expressed optimism about the potential for increased US investments in Bangladesh, emphasizing the need for conducive economic policies and reforms.

Fay highlighted the importance of a free flow of capital for US companies to bring in more investments to Bangladesh and take out profits as needed. He stressed the necessity for greater flexibility to attract more inward foreign direct investment (FDI) from US companies.

Echoing these sentiments, AmCham President Syed Ershad Ahmed acknowledged the challenges faced by US companies in repatriating profits and expressed hope for improved conditions in the future.

Regarding the newly launched Logistics Policy, Ahmed underscored the collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector, emphasizing its potential to positively impact the country's business landscape.

Rubaba Dowla, Country Managing Director of Oracle, highlighted the significant growth potential of the IT sector in Bangladesh, with current exports worth $1 billion and forecasts projecting a rise to $5 billion.

In addition to showcasing American products and services, the Trade Show will feature five seminars covering various trade-related topics. The event will be open to visitors from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on all three days (May 9, 10, & 11), with an entry fee of Taka 30 per person. Students in uniform or with identity cards will enjoy free entry, with attractive prizes available through a raffle drawing of entry ticket coupons after the Trade Show.