The financial slowdown seems to have cast its shadow over the 28th India International Trade Fair (IITF). The second day of the fair turned out to be a bit of a dampener for many visitors.

Several visitors were seen ambling along from one pavilion to another, or lounging in the multiple food courts and gardens at Pragati Maidan, soaking in the ambience on a warm winter afternoon, having been disappointed by the prices on the offer this time.

While over 70,000 tickets were sold for the day from outlets at Pragati Maidan, many visitors seem to have fit more easily into the role of onlookers rather than shoppers.

According to the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), the average number of visitors on the weekends last year was over one lakh. “A lot of the crowd seems to have come for a good time and a look at the goods that are on display, instead of actually making purchases,” said Renu Jain. While she, along with her friends, has been coming to the trade fair for several years, the offers this time left them asking for more. “The slowdown in the economy seems to have had its effect on the trade fair too. My friends and I have limited our purchases this year, since we have not found any attractive discounts or sales till now,” she said.

Other visitors shared her opinion. “The prices are the same as market rates. You’ll definitely find a lot less people with shopping bags this year,” said Anita Suresh, a regular visitor to the IITF. She said she had to be content with a few clothes and knick-knacks this year. “If we can get more of the same products in the market, why should we buy them here?” Roopali, another visitor, asked.

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