The Delhi Fair with its 2596 exhibitors witnessed regional displays and a host of supporting events.
Approximately 4856 buyers and buying representatives from 92 countries visited the fair that resulted in business enquiries worth Rs. 3650 cr.
Buyers visited from USA, UK, UAE, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Greece, Italy, Sweden, Spain, Russia, Japan, Australia, China, Singapore, South Africa, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Canada, Brazil, and many more.
Sustainability was the highlight of the fair as many buyers sought eco-friendly and compliant ranges in home and lifestyle products.
Visitors loved the ‘raw’ and ‘natural’ look and their suppliers at the fair this time, offered more options in repurposed cast-off materials and derivatives drawn from nature.
In his wishes for a successful fair, the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi said, “Our handicrafts sector reflects the unity in diversity, richness and vibrancy of our society and culture. The emphasis is on providing wider market opportunities for our hardworking craftsmen,” and added, “Our Govt. firmly believes that technology upgradation holds the key to its expansion. We have taken decisive measures to further research and innovation in the sector and help manufacturers produce even more user-friendly and durable products.”
R K Malhotra, Chairman, EPCH, said, “Our buyers have been happy to see that we share the global concern towards saving the environment. They have liked contemporary and stylish cane & bamboo crafts, home decoratives, furniture & furnishings, artisanal textiles, dry flowers & potpourri, natural fiber products, handcrafted fashion jewellery & accessories, etc., on display by our exhibitors and all confirming to prevalent and upcoming trends in international markets because of which they are in high demand. “
Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Director General, EPCH & Chairman, IEML, said, “Today, while many established players (manufacturers/exporters) in India have taken decisive steps to be socially as well as environmentally responsible and compliant, and are certified, there are many artisans and manufacturers at the grassroots level whose business model is essentially centered on sustainability. We have brought them to the forefront through this fair.”
