Bringing prosperity back: Swat prepares for trade exhibition

The three-day symposium aims to restore normalcy through trade.

MINGORA: Vegetables and fruits, woodwork, handloom fabric, gemstones, and kaolin or China clay, are income-generating commodities in Swat Valley but several of these industries saw major setbacks after militancy escalated in the area.

The Swat Trade Exhibition which will start on Monday in Mingora aims to bring business and promote these small industries by providing a platform for traders. Stalls of various products have been set up at Grassy Ground. The exhibition, organised by Pakistan Army in collaboration with the Atlas Honda, will continue for three days.

Merchants and industrialists appreciated the step. They said the expo will help promote local crafts and revive trade earlier affected by militancy.

“The exhibition will no doubt provide national-level exposure,” said Fazal Rahman, as he set up his stall. Rahman added the move will also nurture peace.

“This is really an international-grade exhibition in which traders and visitors from every part of the country will see local products,” said Iftikhar Khan, a trader from the hand-loom industry of Islampur.

Mohammad Faisal Ijaz, assistant manager sales and marketing division Atlas Honda, told The Express Tribune the fair will not only promote business activity but also foster normalcy in the valley.

Products of the local industry which do not reach other parts of Pakistan will be on display, said Major Moazzam Ali, who is looking after the arrangements of the exhibition.

“People from across the country will come and have seen the high-quality products manufactured locally, hence opening new trade opportunities,” he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 8^th, 2014.