CHITRAL: The two-day ‘Chitral Expo 2026’commenced here on Saturday to strengthen regional economy and promote tourism in the district.
Organised by Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) in collaboration with Chitral Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), the mega event aims to showcase the untapped economic potential, rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit of the Hindu Kush region.
The opening ceremony attracted a diverse gathering of government officials, business leaders, local artisans and civil society members.
Chitral Scouts commandant Col Arsalan Abdul Majeed was the chief guest, who inaugurated the exhibition.
Event also showcases rich cultural heritage of the region
The proceedings began with a welcoming address by TDAP Director General for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Nauman Bashir, who highlighted the core objectives of the expo and emphasised that the initiative was designed to act as a bridge connecting Chitral’s remote yet resource-rich market with national and international supply chains.
He reiterated TDAP’s commitment to empowering local communities by providing them with a platform to market their goods.
Addressing the gathering, the Chitral Scouts commandant highlighted the region’s vast potential for promoting commerce and industry and fostering sustainable economic growth.
He added that sustainable economic development and peace in the border regions were deeply interconnected and it was precisely through persistent efforts like this expo that long-term prosperity could be achieved.
Speaking at the event, Chitral Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Engineer Fahad shed light on the region’s mineral wealth, gemstones, agricultural products and handicraft.
“By effectively harnessing our indigenous resources and unlocking the immense potential of our youth, Chitral can achieve a profound economic transformation,” he said.
He emphasised that the ultimate goal is to transform young people from jobseekers into job creators who can generate employment opportunities for others and contribute to local economic growth.
The exhibition floor came alive with a myriad of stalls displaying the very best of what Chitral has to offer.
Local entrepreneurs, women-led businesses and young innovators set up pavilions, showcasing organic honey, dry fruits, traditional woollen apparels, precious gemstones and unique minerals.
A major highlight of the expo was the dedicated section for local youth, who put their immense creativity and exquisite artistic masterpieces on display, earning widespread acclaim from visitors.
The globally renowned and colourful Kalash culture was given centre-stage at the event. Traditional Kalash dancers, artisans and cultural ambassadors showcased their unique heritage through live displays and intricate handicraft.
Zahid Mahmood of TDAP and prominent local social figure Inayatullah Aseer also spoke on the opening day.
They advocated the continuity of such socio-economic interventions and urged investors from across Pakistan to look towards Chitral as the next big frontier for ecotourism and sustainable hospitality.
Published in Dawn, October 11th, 2026
