New York International Trade Fair: Global Prospects for Bangladeshi Business

Special Correspondent: Times Square is often referred to as the heart of New York City. At its very center—the Marriott Marquis Hotel—the 4th New York International Trade Fair and Chamber Expo 2025 is set to begin on Friday, September 26. But beyond the glitter of the name lies a deeper promise—this event could be a stepping stone for Bangladesh’s journey into the global market.
Organized jointly by the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and the Bangladesh-USA Chamber of Commerce and Industries, this annual event has been held since 2022. The theme this year—Creating Economic Opportunities, Shaping a Better Future Together—reflects a progressive business mindset geared toward the next generation.

As in previous years, Bangladesh will be prominently featured. The spotlight will shine on three sectors: readymade garments (RMG), information technology, and jute. These sectors represent the evolving image of Bangladesh’s export potential. Once known solely for its garments industry, the country is now surprising the world with its jute products and aiming to enter new markets through innovation in IT.
The inauguration ceremony will be graced by notable figures including SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler, and Deputy Secretary of Commerce Paul DeBar. The presence of these mainstream leaders indicates that this event goes far beyond the South Asian diaspora—it has caught the attention of America’s broader economic community.
For the first time, a ten-member delegation from the European Union will attend, including business leaders and policymakers from Italy, the United Kingdom, Scotland, and Poland. Notable figures include: Mohammad Irad Ali, President of the Italy-Bangladesh Chamber and head of Agrabad Group, CIP Emdadur Rahman Chowdhury, owner of Tatka Company, Sirajul Islam, Executive Director of CK Food Ltd., M.M. Rahman and Maksuda Begum from Venice Glass & Fashion Ltd, Faisal Alam, Executive Director of Macmart Group Ltd among others.
From the UK, participants include Sabrina Hussain, Executive Director of NTV Europe, and Oli Khan MBE FRSA, President of the UK-Bangladesh Caterers Association. From Scotland, MP Faisal Chowdhury MBE MSP will attend. Mansur Mahbub, a business advisor, will represent Poland. The delegation will be led by Faisal Alam, who serves as the European Coordinator for the event.
This type of expo is not just a display for expatriate Bangladeshis. It serves as a strategic platform for young entrepreneurs, offering them the chance to understand global market trends, build networks with international investors, and reintroduce Bangladesh’s promising industries in a fresh light. In addition to over 200 U.S.-based stalls, two Bangladeshi garment companies will be showcasing their products.
Following the implementation of new U.S. tariff policies under President Donald Trump, global trade dynamics have shifted. In this changed context, the New York International Trade Fair and Chamber Expo is being seen as an opportunity to expand Bangladesh’s trade relations with the U.S.
Bangladesh’s garment industry has already earned global confidence. Beyond that, the country is exploring new frontiers in jute, leather, IT, and agro-based products. This trade fair could serve as a bridge on that journey.
Bangladeshi expatriates are no longer limited to cultural or social spheres—they are forging a new identity in global commerce. This expo is a matter of pride, showcasing that Bangladeshis are now not just laborers abroad, but also creative leaders in business and trade. Once, expatriates represented Bangladesh through songs, poetry, and cultural events. Today, they’re presenting the country on the global economic stage.
Therefore, the New York International Trade Fair is not just a business exhibition—it’s a symbol of Bangladeshi dreams, hard work, and confidence.
Dr. Ziauddin Ahmed, Convener of the New York International Trade Fair and Chamber Expo 2025, has called upon Bangladeshi businesspeople and young entrepreneurs to participate in the event and represent the growing strength of Bangladesh in global trade.