Ahead of the upcoming Eid ul-Fitr, business is booming at the Gaushia Wholesale Cloth Market in Bhulta, Rupganj, Narayanganj. Shopkeepers are showcasing their products, and many are offering various deals to attract buyers. While foot traffic at ready-made garment stores is comparatively low, shops selling Jakat lungis and saree fabrics are seeing huge crowds. Last Ramadan, the market’s sales reached around 500 crore BDT, and traders are hopeful that sales this year could rise to 550 crore BDT, though some express concerns over rising fabric prices and the ongoing economic downturn.

The Gaushia Market, established in 1979 over 24 acres of land, now hosts 5,472 shops, a number expected to rise to 14,000 once construction is completed. Business is brisk throughout the week, except for Saturdays, with the market staying open on Saturdays in the lead-up to Eid. Wholesale transactions for ready-made garments primarily occur on Mondays and Tuesdays, with daily sales between 50 and 70 crore BDT. During Eid, sales volumes increase significantly, while other days focus on retail transactions.

Traders from across the country, including from Rajshahi, Sirajganj, Sylhet, Gazipur, Mymensingh, and Barishal, come to purchase wholesale fabrics. Despite slightly higher prices this year, sales are steady. Jasim Uddin, the owner of Asiya Fashion in Rajshahi, shared that he sources fabrics from this market due to its affordability and quality, although many traders are now reluctant to offer goods on credit.

Raisul Islam, the owner of Alif Bostro Bitan in Gaushia, emphasized their goal of providing the best quality fabric at minimal profit, which has earned them the trust of buyers from all over the country. Fabrics available range from boutique three-piece sets priced between 300 and 1,200 BDT to silk sarees costing between 1,500 and 4,000 BDT. Additionally, various types of cloth, including cotton, Jamdani sarees, and lungis, are available at competitive prices.

However, retail sales for ready-made garments are slightly lower this year. Imran Hossain, the owner of Sajib Fashion, noted that sales have decreased compared to last year, with daily sales averaging 1.5 to 2 lakh BDT last year, but expectant growth in the coming days.

Even the footpath vendors outside the Gaushia market have set up vibrant stalls with a variety of colorful clothes. Around 500 shops have sprung up on the sidewalks, and traders mention that there are no longer fees for operating businesses on the footpath since the change in government.

According to Mostafizur Rahman Dipu, the owner of Gaushia Corporation, the market is now the largest wholesale cloth market in the country, and their aim is to provide the highest security, modern fire defense systems, and top-notch services for both buyers and sellers.