CAN-InfoTech, a well known exhibition of information technology products and services, has emerged as a preeminent platform for tech enthusiasts. From sellers to buyers, it has become a common destination for tech savvy people. For businesses, in particular, the expo has become a good opportunity to market and test their products.

What makes this annual fair the talk of the town for people from all walks of life is the massive participation. According to the Computer Association of Nepal (CAN) Federation, 258,385 people had visited the 23rd edition of the fair being held at Bhrikutimandap as of Monday.

The expo hosts a total of 158 traders in 222 stalls featuring a wide range of products from smartphones, tablets and laptops to printers, projectors, routers and software. Apart from sales of electronic gadgets, CAN-InfoTech also features an information centre where visitors can collect information on the latest innovations in the IT sector.

“We have been participating in this event for the last eight years. CAN-InfoTech is a perfect platform for our business,” said Ram Hari KC, an official of Gadgets Nepal.

“It’s not just about sales. The event helps us increase the visibility of any brand.”

According to CAN Federation President Binod Dhakal, the main objective of the fair is to provide a source of reliable information for emerging IT businesses in Nepal. “This is why we bring traders from diverse businesses under a single roof,” Dhakal said.

Samit Shrestha, the chief executive officer of Bent Ray Technologies that makes accounting and attendance management software, had the same view. “We have participated in the fair from the past six years. This festival allows us to test and market our products and make people aware about them,” Shrestha said.

For some, the annual extravaganza is a perfect destination for introducing new products. Nepal Hima Trade Links, the sole authorized distributor of Sony in Nepal, has introduced Power Bank television. Likewise, Sammy Traders, which sells gadgets like power banks and power cubes, is launching five new products on Tuesday.

Likewise, the event is a perfect platform to boost sales. A number of stalls have been offering promotional and discount offers. According to the organisers, they have found people who wait for CAN-InfoTech to buy ICT products.

Subisu, for instance, has introduced an internet and clear TV connection package for just Rs7,999. Similarly, Samsung mobiles has offered a discount on cell phone models like the C9 and J2 S, among others. Huawei and Lenovo have offered discounts of up to 40 percent.

The event will conclude on Tuesday. The organisers expect a total footfall of 400,000.