Pakistan Interested in Expanding Trade with Bangladesh

In a courtesy meeting held on Thursday (21 August) at the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) office, Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan expressed interest in expanding trade with Bangladesh. DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed was present at the meeting.

Jam Kamal Khan stated that both Bangladesh and Pakistan rely heavily on the ready-made garments and textile sectors. There is an opportunity to create new markets through export diversification. He mentioned that demand for new-design garments for reuse is rising in Europe, Canada, and the United States, and that entrepreneurs from both countries can successfully meet this demand by working together.

He also noted that there is significant potential to expand exports to markets in East Africa and Central Asia. Pakistan is in a strong position in the cement, sugar, footwear, and leather sectors, which can be imported into Bangladesh. Conversely, Bangladesh’s pharmaceutical industry could play an important role in the Pakistani market. By adopting new technologies and adding value in the agriculture sector, export opportunities could further increase.

Jam Kamal Khan said that a single-country exhibition (Single Country Exhibition) from Pakistan will be organized in Bangladesh soon, which will strengthen the relationship between the private sectors of both countries.

DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed remarked that the people of both countries share many similarities in terms of culture and lifestyle. He added that Pakistan’s textiles and jewelry products are in high demand in Bangladesh. He called for expanding trade through the signing of a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and improving business relations via direct flight and cargo connections.

The meeting was also attended by Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Haider, senior DCCI officials, and other officials from the Pakistan High Commission.