Dhaka, Dec. 30 -- Single-use plastics, including polythene and all kinds of plastic shopping bags, will be banned at the upcoming Dhaka International Trade Fair, said Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman.

Only plastic bottles for drinking water will be allowed at the event starting on Jan 1, he said on Monday.

Participating companies using polythene or plastic products for their own purposes will not be eligible for any awards, including best pavilion or best stall, he added.

The commerce secretary's comment came at a media briefing held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Centre in Purbachal, the venue for the month-long fair.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus will inaugurate the fair at 10am on the opening day.

"One notable feat...