Dhaka, 27 January 2024(TDI): In a notable diplomatic and business engagement, Pakistan’s High Commissioner, Syed Ahmed Maroof, actively participated in discussions at the 16th International Plastics, Packaging, and Printing Industrial Fair (IPF-2024) held in Dhaka.
During his visit, High Commissioner Maroof engaged in meaningful conversations with key industry figures, including President Samim Ahmed of the Bangladesh Plastic Goods Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BPGMEA), alongside other influential business leaders.
The event, taking place at the International Convention City Bashundhara from January 24 to 27, serves as a pivotal platform for fostering international partnerships and exploring advancements in the plastics industry.
IPF-2024 unveils Cutting-Edge Innovations in Plastics and Printing
However, IPF-2024, organized jointly by BPGMEA and Yorkers Trade and Marketing Service Co Ltd, is set to host 761 companies from 21 countries, exhibiting their products across 961 stalls.
The fair, running until January 27, features 800 foreign and 161 domestic companies, spanning 15 categories, including plastic household items, packaging materials, toys, pharmaceuticals, and more.
Furthermore, cutting-edge machinery, such as plastic injection molding, PP woven bag, flexographic printing, PET blow, and plastic bag making machines, will be showcased by exhibitors from various countries.
Bangladesh’s thriving Plastic Industry
Meanwhile, ranked 12th in plastic product exports globally, Bangladesh positions itself as a key player in the market.
BPGMEA President Samim Ahmed highlighted that the country’s total plastic exports in the 2022-2023 fiscal year reached $209.86 million, contributing significantly to employment with approximately 12 lakh people engaged in the sector.
In his welcome speech, BPGMEA President Shamim Ahmed emphasized the pivotal role of the plastic industry as a crucial linkage for various sectors, including garments, food, and pharmaceuticals.
The industry serves as an essential component for packaging across diverse export-oriented industries.
Additionally, government officials, including the Industry Minister and State Minister for Commerce, highlighted the substantial contributions of the plastic industry.
Acknowledging the vast potential in the global plastics sector, they discussed ongoing initiatives, such as the construction of a plastic industrial city in Bangladesh.
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Moreover, the fair, hosting representatives from over 20 countries, provides a unique platform for international collaboration. Participating countries include China, Taiwan, India, Belgium, Vietnam, Indonesia, South Korea, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
15th IPF-2023
Similarly, in the previous 15th International Plastics, Packaging, and Printing Industrial Fair (IPF-2023) held from February 22 showcased the latest innovations, hosting nearly 300 companies from 21 countries.
BPGMEA President Samim Ahmed highlighted local entrepreneurs’ access to cutting-edge technology, contributing to Bangladesh’s $1.2 billion annual plastic product exports.
Meanwhile, employment in the sector reached 12 lakh, with a 44.21% YoY increase in exports, yet occupying only 0.1% of the $570 billion global market.
The success of the 15th fair laid a strong foundation for the ongoing collaboration and growth in the plastic industry, setting the stage for the continued success of IPF-2024.
The four-day IPF-2024 will conclude on January 27, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the latest trends and innovations in the plastics industry.