The 12- week festival will begin on January 12, 2005 in United Arab Emirate's financial hub Dubai.

Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) yesterday held a preparatory meeting to discuss on how to derive maximum benefits from the event.

Presiding over the meeting at the chamber's auditorium yesterday, CCCI President Amir Humyun Mahmud Chowdhury said the Dubai fair may open a scope to create consumers faith on Bangladeshi products in Middle East market.

"Bangladesh can take advantage from the fair to introduce its products to the consumers and traders, as Dubai is the gateway and commercial hub of the entire Gulf region," he said.

During the festival period, the Bangladeshi participants will get ample opportunity to survey market for their products without additional cost. Bangladesh has been participating in the Dubai Shopping Festival since 2001.

The Inscope, Middle East, would organise the Bangladesh Pavilion at the global village of next DSF with the permission of the government

Monowara Hakim Ali, president of Chittagong Women Entrepreneurs, said that at least 10 members of association are ready to take part in the festival with an aim to promote their home made products including handicrafts and small and cottage products.