From Bangladeshi Rajshahi Silk to Istanbul fancy decorative light wall hangers, every ornamental product is available at one stop here at the International Mega Trade Fair for the shopaholics. Participants from Turkey, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Thailand have brought their exotic collection ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 50,000.
The fair which kicked off on March 3, though witnessed positive response from the denizens of the State capital but the stall owners from across the globe who are here with their goods and special products seems to be unhappy with the response they are receiving from Ranchiites in terms of purchasing.
“We are participating in the international trade fair since past two years. Everytime our unique collections used to lure the visitors but things have changed now, we are witnessing downfall in sale. None of our items like home décor collections, Salwar Suits or fancy accessories are getting positive response from people in this city,” informed Mohammad Aamir of SK Collections who has come all the way from Karachi, Pakistan to exhibit his collections.
After giving heavy discounts on various products, customers are not turning to the international stalls irrespective of availability of various items of intercontinental standards present at one destination.
“Though heavy rush is seen in the evening but customers just inquire about the products and leave the place. We are selling products at factory outlet price but irrespective of our several attempts, customers are not giving positive response to us. Here the purchasing power is less among the people. We have paid Rs 1.5 lakhs for the stall and are unable to recover the money,” said, a businessman from Istanbul, Turkey, Hayrullah Karpuz, whose bright and colourful wall hanging hodgepodges have failed to create magic among the people.
However, small entrepreneurs from Thailand and Bangladesh who are busy selling knick knacks are gaining lukewarm response from the residents. “Maximum international stalls products are very expensive. Few sellers from Thailand have come up with decorative fancy accessories which are affordable and can be purchased,” said Neha Sharma, a local resident.
Here, Bangladeshi sellers too are doing brisk business at the international trade fair. “Sale of silk sarees is quite good here. People are inclined towards buying sarees and other silk dress materials. We have products from Rs 1000 to Rs 10,000 at our stall. We are giving discount on products too,” informed M Rehman, a seller from Dhaka, Bangladesh.