The fifth Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) '99 begins today at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the city with entries from as many as 30 countries.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is expected to inaugurate the fair as the chief guest.

Bangladesh is hosting the exposition with a view to introducing foreign machinery and local exportable to prospective buyers.

Bangladesh is going to put its full range of exportable on display. Jute goods. Jute yarn and twine Jute carpets, apparels, textiles, towels and garment accessories, leather and leather goods including footwear and jackets will be displayed at the fair.

The fair will' help foreign buyers or their agents to make their choices and establish contact with the appropriate exporters.

Overseas participants are also expected to exhibit various kinds of consumer goods along with machinery.

A total of 30 countries including USA. UK. Germany. France. Denmark. Italy. Australia. E®pt. Hong Kong. Singapore. Taiwan. South Korea. India, Pakistan. Afghanistan. Turkey. Kenya. Malaysia. China, Oman, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Russia and host Bangladesh are to participate in the month long fair.

Digital Web Corporation, a private web designing company, has been assigned to send the image of the DITF on Internet in real time. Web explorers will be able to see instantly through a digital camera in the Internet what is happening at the DITF.

The company said it would promote the image and products of Bangladesh abroad. It has decided to run the web site for a year.

The fair will have 33 pavilions. 53 mini pavilions. 271 stalls and 10 restaurants.