Industry expects good number of foreign buyers at IHGF

Aamir H Kaki

The exporters and SMEs showcasing their handicrafts at the Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fair (IHGF) Delhi Fair Spring 2017, are hoping for a good number of buyers from international as well as domestic markets.

While speaking to The Dollar Business, A.S. Rehil, Chief Operating Officer, Masomex, said, “It is too early to say anything about the buyers as today is the first day of the Fair. I can see a lot of buyers and footfalls in the exhibition. But it depends how it is going to result at the end of the day. We are expecting a sizeable number coming to the fair in the coming days.”

Citing the reason for low turnout, he said, “The recently held Frankfurt show might be the reason for the impact. The buyers are tired. May be they will be coming in tomorrow or the day after.”

On the question of which country buyers they are targeting, Rehil said, “We have been exhibiting here since 2012. Our products are commonly used ones such as stationery, storage trunks, decorative, wall art, etc. that are exported to the UK and the US markets. These can be bought by any country.”

Shakeel Ahmad, Partner, Ahmad Exports, said, “This is the first day of the Fair therefore the footfall is low. But we are hoping that in the coming days we will see a good turnout of international buyers for our products. Handicraft products are always in demand among foreign buyers. We are hoping for good business this year.”

On the other hand, there were some who were sceptical about the buyer turnout due to a sluggish global market. Tough competition due to an increase in the number of product exhibitors could also slow down sales for individual sellers.

Surjeet Singh, owner of Leela Exports, said, “The flow of buyers is not as much as what was expected. Compared to the number of exhibitors, the footfalls and chances of getting buyers is low.”

He expressed satisfaction at the overall arrangements by the fair organisers. "Though there are a wide variety of products on display, the business will depend on the quality and uniqueness of the product. We have done what was in our capacity but you will know how good you are only when you enter the competition. The EPCH has done a commendable job by bringing record number of exhibitors under one roof. But the main concern is if buyers do not turn up then what is the use of such large number of exhibitors?"

The 43rd edition of IHGF Delhi Fair Spring 2017, organised by EPCH (Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts), is being held from February 16-20 at Expo Mart, Greater Noida. The Fair was inaugurated by Rashmi Verma, Secretary - Textiles, Ministry of Textiles on February 16.