The five-day fair became successful in meeting the objectives of enhancing trade between the participating countries, providing a platform for Dashain shoppers and promoting products and services of participating countries, according to the organizers.[break]
International exhibitors said the fair provided them with a platform to promote and expand their businesses in Nepal. Some of the exhibitors found local partners to market their products in Nepal during the fair. Nepali firms representing different international brands also found local dealers and retailers to market their products.
Subodh Manandhar of China Executive Council (CEC) - the organizer of the event - said many big Chinese companies have shown interest to start their business in Nepal. “This year all the countries in the South Asia region did not participate in the fair. Next year, we will try to ensure participation of all the countries in the region. This will give visitors more opportunities to explore,” added Manandhar - the coordinator of the fair.
Participating traders say they put individual efforts to find appropriate partners in Nepal. “It would have been easier for us had the organizers suggested us potential partners,” said Rafiq Lakhan, proprietor of Lakhani Textiles at Karachi.
Nepali firms dealing with handicraft, metal crafts, carpets, agro products and commodities among others had participated in the fair.
Rajshahi silk saris, garments and kurtha salwars from Bangladesh; electronic items, kitchenware, mobile phones and tea from India, leather goods, jewelries, accessories, saris, sandals, kurthis, and leather wallets and jackets from Pakistan; play items, study and picnic tables, decorative materials from China; Feng Shui products from South East Asia were the major attractions in the fair.
Meanwhile, local companies that participated in the fair have decided to extend attractive discounts and offers till Tihar festival.
Around 90,000 persons visited the fair that had around 180 stalls from five countries.
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