Fisheries and Livestock Minister Abdullah Al Noman inaugurated the show at BCS Computer City at IDB Bhaban in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.

Matiur Rahman, editor of the daily Prothom Alo, and Aftabul Islam, former president of the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham), among others, were present at the inauguration.

A total of 175 companies, from home and abroad, are showcasing their newest computer software and hardware at 160 stalls in the fifth version of the show, which will remain open from 10:00am to 8:00pm with a Tk 10 entry ticket. School students and physically challenged people will get free access.

In his speech Noman said the task of connecting Bangladesh with the information super highway is almost completed and a cyber law has also been drafted, which is awaiting cabinet nod for final go-ahead.

He hoped the country can explore the potential in IT sector if the stakeholders work jointly.

Matiur Rahman, expressing his interest to work with the IT people in developing the sector in Bangladesh, urged them to provide after-sales services to ensure sustainable business.

BCS Computer City, the largest ICT marketplace in the country, is the organiser of the annual event titled 'CityIT-2005'. Gigabyte, Intel, Lexmark and Philips are the sponsors of the fair.