Micro and small entrepreneurs, who produce traditional attire and handicraft, are still far away from recovery following a drastic fall in business during the pandemic, speakers said on Tuesday.
Protecting those entrepreneurs is essential for the economic recovery and safeguarding the country's cultural heritage, they told a programme.
The observations were made during a press conference organised by SME Foundation (SMEF) at its headquarters in the capital's Panthapath area to announce a month-long 'Heritage Handloom Festival 2020'.
The SMEF and the Association of Fashion Designers Bangladesh (AFDB) are co-hosting the trade show on a digital platform in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
SMEF managing director Md Safiqul Islam, AFDB president Mantasha Ahmed and SMEF deputy managing director SM Shaheen Anwar, among others, joined the briefing.
Addressing the programme, Mr Islam said the handloom festival is going to take place virtually this year in view of the pandemic situation.
It is needed to safeguard the local heritage amid the widespread use of foreign products, he added.
"I hope the festival will create a matchmaking platform to help manufacturers reach a wide range of consumers through the digital platform," Mr Islam cited.
In reply to a query, Ms Mantasha said micro entrepreneurs like weavers and handicraft manufacturers have been hardest hit due to the pandemic.
"Unlike the usual fashion houses, they couldn't use digital platforms to continue their business in an adverse situation," she told the FE.
She said many are struggling with their inventories.
The association is extending its support to the entrepreneurs through an online platform called 'deshi valobashi', added Ms Mantasha who joined virtually.
Artisans have missed peak seasons like Bangla New Year and Eid this year due to the spread of COVID-19, the AFDB chief observed.
According to organisers, exhibitors will show their products from 60 virtual stalls to be made available during an inaugural ceremony today (Wednesday).
The participants will show attire like sari, lungi, banarasi, handicraft, jute goods, cane items and accessories manufactured by aboriginals.
With the slogan 'our product our country, digital Bangladesh', the festival is aimed at promoting the weaving sector through employment generation and creating a greater matchmaking platform.
Information about the event is also available on a Facebook page.
Education minister Dr Dipu Moni is scheduled to inaugurate the fair through a virtual ceremony.
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