Delhi's handicraft fair evokes mixed responses

The 43rd edition of the Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fair (IHGF) - Delhi Fair Spring 2017 evoked mixed response from exhibitors with some expressing disappointment over low sales while others termed it "a good show".

"There has been too much of political turmoil, international instability and changes in the west. This has certainly made an impact on our business. If compared to the previous editions, we have not made much of business yet," Rohit Suri of Hansa Agencies Private Limited from Moradabad told IANS.

Similar views were expressed by Hazaar, owner of Rak International from Moradabad at the five-day exposition which kicked off on February 16.

Hazaar said: "I have been coming here for last five years but this year the market has not been up to the mark. The purpose of the exhibition is for international market but there have been less international buyers than earlier seasons."

However, for Owais Rashid from Rashid Exports, the business so far has been good.

"We make our products as per buyer's preference as well as the designs are contemporary. We design our products according to latest trend and perhaps that is why international buyers have liked our items. We have also received many orders from international buyers," Rashid said.

Organised at the India Expo Centre and Mart at Greater Noida Expressway, the exhibition brings together a wide range of luxurious home decor -- from cushion covers to carpets, from brass-made candle stands to a wall clock under one roof.

With more than 3,000 stalls, the exhibition is not just a place for exports but also a platform for the exhibitors to interact with buyers.

"There are certainly many positive sides of the fair. Hardly people know us, it is our products which are sold in the market. Events like this give us a chance to introduce ourselves to the buyers. People get to know the faces involved behind the hardwork and creativity," Suri said.

The fair is also acting as a big platform giving identity to the small-town manufacturers.

"For small and medium scale manufacturers, the exhibition gives a chance to expand business, make contacts and even sale products on international level," Vivek Aggarwal of JMD International added.

"People, especially those from abroad, connect back even after the event is over. I have seen a rise in my sale of products after participating at this event," Debabrata Chatterjee of Zest Tex International from Hooghly in West Bengal told.

The fair includes 900 permanent marts from all over the country who will be showcasing products in 14 different categories. Over 6,500 foreign buyers from more than 80 countries, buying agents based in India and domestic retail volume buyers are expected to visit the mega fair to source their requirements.

--IANS

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