Himalayan News Service

Kathmandu, April 12:

Preparations for forthcoming China Trade Fair (CTF)-2005 are underway at the Birendra International Convention Centre. Organised by the embassy of the People’s Republic of China and Nepal-China Executive Council (NCEC), the four-day event is first of its kind trade fair of Chinese products in Nepal. The fair will open on April 15 and will last till April 18. The event is being organised to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China. “The fair aims to showcase high-quality Chinese products to Nepali and other South Asian businessmen who visit the fair,” said Anoop Ranjan Bhattarai,

president of NCEC, at an exhibitor briefing programme, today.

The fair will display Chinese products which are in good demand in Nepal. Raw material and standard machinery for pharmaceutical industry, hospital equipment and other medicines and health products, computers and peripherals, office equipment, mobile phones, automobiles, raw material like silk and pashmina for textile industry and readymade garments, home appliances and agricultural products would be some of the major attractions at the fair. Likewise, construction companies, travel and tour agents are also taking part in the event.

Already more than 65companies have already booked the stalls, according to C N Upadhaya, the event coordinator. He also said that organisers have insured all products and goods to be showcased during the event with Nepal Insurance Company Ltd.

Besides companies from the mainland China and Tibet, Nepali participants like National Trading Ltd will market Chinese products and Sajha Yatayat will promote its forthcoming operation between Kathmandu-Lhasa direct bus services. Dance, fashion show and musical concerts will be the added attractions. A wide array of personalities from business communities including executive management, technical professional, businessmen and students are expected to visit the four-day long event. Supported by Trade Promotion Centre (TPC), Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) and Nepal Trans Himalayan Trade Association, CTF-2005 will have more than 70 exhibitors and 80 stalls. The organisers expect over 100,000 visitors during the fair. The Himalayan Times and Annapurna Post are the official print media of the event.