US Trade Show begins

The ninth US Trade Show 2000 began in the city yesterday with the aim to gain greater market access for US products in Bangladesh.

A total of 64 exhibitors are participating the three-day gala event jointly organised by the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) and the US Embassy in Dhaka.

The show at the Dhaka Sheraton Hotel was inaugurated by Industries Minister Tofail Ahmed. US Ambassador John C Holzman and AmCham President Forrest E Cookson were also present.

A wide range of US-made products and services have been put on display in the show which also aims at narrowing down the trade gap that exists between the two countries in favour of Bangladesh.

The trade imbalance between the two countries amounted to US$1.5 billion in 1999. Bangladesh's exports to the US market stand at around $1.8 billion while the size of its imports from the same market is around $300 million.

Speaking on the occasion, Industries Minister Tofail Ahmed sought easy visa and work facilities for Bangladeshis in the United States.

"Since we provide easy visa access and work permit for the US citizens, we expect the same treatment from the United States," Tofail said.

US Ambassador John C Holzman said that a number of important issues will be discussed when US President Bill Clinton visits Bangladesh in March.

Terming the US-Bangladesh relationship as 'very cordial and friendly', the US envoy said that Clinton's visit would further strengthen the existing ties.

Praising the Bangladesh policy to encourage foreign investment, Holzman hoped that more US entrepreneurs would come in a bigger way here.

Explaining the objectives of the trade show, AmCham President Forrest E Cookson said that it is an opportunity for the Bangladeshi consumers and businessmen to know about the US products which are readily available.

Cookson also emphasised that Bangladesh should encourage import of more US products. "As we import more and more from Bangladesh, we would also like to see a greater market for US products here."