DHAKA: Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed on Wednesday underscored the need for increasing the volume of exports to the countries including Thailand in a bid to accelerate the country’s economy.

“We import products worth of 60 billion USD from Thailand in a year, but export volume is very poor. However, we are taking steps to increase the amount of export, not import,” the minister said as chief guest in his speech at a four-day "Thailand Week 2015” trade fair at the capital’s Bashundhara International Convention City.

The exposition, jointly organized by Thai Embassy in Dhaka, Department of International Trade Promotion and Thai Ministry of Commerce, aims to accelerate the economic relations between the business communities of both countries.

The minister said, “Bangladesh is no longer a disaster-prone country. It is now a potential nation along with a brighter future. Bangladesh is moving forward in all social and economic aspects.”

With an urge to boost trade in Asian countries, Tofail said, “Bangladesh has been maintaining contacts with different countries, including Myanmar and Thailand. It is now moving forward with a specific target.

According to ‘Thailand Week’ organizers, the visitors will get opportunity to buy or to be introduced with various kinds of Thai products.

It will also provide an instant opportunity for the businesspeople to have one on one meeting with Thai exporters on the event premises.

At the fair, 50 stalls have been set to showcase seven categories of Thai products such as auto parts and accessories; construction metal and machinery equipment; food and beverage; garments, textile, knitwear and fashion accessories and health, beauty, household and stationery products.

The exhibition, which also featuring Thai cultural show along with demonstration of Thai and other cuisines, will remain open from 10:00am to 8:00pm till March 28.

Thai ambassador in Dhaka Madurapochna Ittarong and councilor of Thailand commerce ministry Wachara Chamnanwong, among others, were present at the inaugural ceremony.

BDST: 1644 HRS, MAR 25, 2015