Two-day trade exhibition begins in Lower Chitral

CHITRAL: A two-day trade exhibition was inaugurated in Lower Chitral with the aim of promoting local entrepreneurship and empowering women economically.

More than 70 stalls have been set up at the Chitral Expo, jointly organised by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and the Chitral Chamber of Commerce, showcasing a diverse range of locally made products including traditional handicrafts, gemstones, antiques, wooden items, dinner sets, Chitrali caps, and embroidered cloaks known as shuqa.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Prof Dr Sanaullah, deputy vice- chancellor of the University of Chitral, and Nauman Bashir, director general of TDAP, emphasised that the event would not only introduce Chitral’s unique products to national and international markets but also create new opportunities for networking, business development, and skills training.

They termed the initiative a step toward ensuring economic stability in Chitral by providing local businessmen and women with access to larger markets and platforms to promote their products.

The participants from across the country, including entrepreneurs and business professionals, are attending the event. The organizers said that the expo was aimed at promoting traditional handicrafts and facilitating market access for women artisans, many of whom have exceptional skills but limited commercial opportunities.

“Women in Chitral possess immense talent and creativity in handicrafts,” said the speakers, “but they often lack the means to reach wider markets. Through such events, we aim to ensure that these hardworking women can earn fair compensation for their efforts - right from their homes.”

The exhibition is also expected to have a positive impact on tourism in the region by attracting more visitors interested in Chitral’s culture and craftsmanship.

The expo will continue tomorrow, featuring more displays, networking sessions, and cultural activities celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of Chitral.