Kolkata: CM Mamata Banerjee will address over 12,000 traders and MSMEs at the Byabasayi Sammelan 2025 to be held at Netaji Indoor Stadium on Dec 17, a day ahead of the Bengal Business Conclave. The Sammelan is being organised by Confederation of West Bengal Trade Association (CWBTA). Spokespersons of the organization said they believe this will be the biggest gathering of traders in decades. CWBTA president Sushil Poddar said traders will come from every district of Bengal.
"Traders play an indispensable role in Bengal's economy, with an estimated 60-65 lakh traders operating across the state and creating livelihood opportunities for more than one crore people, including those in the unorganized sector. They form the backbone of Bengal's supply chain, ensuring the smooth movement of goods, supporting MSMEs and small enterprises, generating substantial revenue and enabling economic linkage with neighbouring states," he added.
He pointed out that Bengal's trading network also contributes to cross-border commerce with Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan, reinforcing the state's position as a key commercial gateway of eastern India.
"The Byabasayi Sammelan aims to promote a prosperous, progressive and forward-looking business future for Bengal. The event will focus on enhancing ease of doing business, modernizing trade infrastructure, addressing practical challenges faced by traders and strengthening cooperation between the govt and the trading community," he added.
The CWBTA is the apex body of more than 100 trade associations.