SIAM hosts second Indo-Bangla auto show in Dhaka

The second edition of the Indo-Bangla Automotive Show organised by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) in collaboration with the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) was inaugurated today in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

The event is supported by the Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises, government of India; High Commission of India in Dhaka; Bangladesh Automobile Assemblers & Manufacturers Association (BAAMA); Bangladesh Motorcycle Assemblers & Manufacturers Association (BMAMA) and the India-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IBCCI).

Held from February 28 to March 4 at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB), the show aims to expand the reach of Indian automotive companies in Bangladesh. Leading Indian OEMs including Ashok Leyland, Bajaj Auto, Eicher Motors, Force Motors, Hero MotoCorp, Mahindra & Mahindra, Maruti-Suzuki, SML Isuzu, Tata Motors, TVS Motor Co, and their Bangladeshi partners like Aftab Autos, Ifad Autos, Karnaphuli, Niloy Motors, Nitol Motors, Rancon Auto, Rangs Motors, Runner Motors, TVS Auto Bangladesh, Uttara Motors among others, are participating in the event.

In addition, more than 35 Indian component manufacturers, tyre manufacturers, oil and lube companies and organisations like International Centre for Automotive Technology (iCAT) are also participating.

In his welcome address,  Sushant Naik, vice-president, Tata Motors and co-chairman, SIAM Electric Mobility Group and CSR & Community, hailed the economic and cultural ties between India and Bangladesh and hoped that the two countries will continue this legacy in the automotive sector as well. “The theme of this year's auto show is 'Pragati-r pathe ek-shaathe', as we aim to move together on the road to progress. We have tried to address the expectations of all categories of customers, across the spectrum from buses, trucks, passenger cars, two-wheelers and three-wheelers. We have even displayed tractors. New technologies and interfaces are being created in all corners of the world by technology companies in partnership with automakers,” he said.

Dr Adarsh Swaika, acting high commissioner of India in Bangladesh, pointed out that Indian products are accepted in global markets, especially in the developing countries. “Small cars from India will resolve traffic issues in Bangladesh."

Kazi M Aminul Islam, executive chairman, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), addressed the media and dignitaries and said the Bangladesh automotive industry is being supported by the Indian automobile industry for its growth and development. The Bangladesh government is also encouraging private sector to step forward and invest in the country.

Chief guest Tipu Munshi, minister of Commerce, government of Bangladesh, said Bangladesh encourages Indian manufacturers to come and make vehicles, tyres and components here. “In next 4-6 months we will have a clear policy. India is a long-time trusted friend. Our government is very business-friendly and we look forward to creating opportunities for employment and exports. SIAM can suggest us on how to move ahead on this.” 

Thanking the dignitaries present, Sugato Sen, deputy director general, SIAM said: “The automobile industry has always been at the forefront of partnership and progress across the world, between countries, communities and cultures. This show, now in its second year, has the same purpose and mission.”