No alternative to strengthening b2b relations with Bangladesh, says Pakistan high commissioner

Pakistan High Commissioner in Dhaka Syed Ahmed Maroof emphasised strengthening trade and economic relations as part of the bilateral ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh. 

"There is no alternative to enhancing business-to-business relations between both nations to achieve this goal. Despite the existing bilateral relations, there is a significant trade deficit that needs to be reduced," he said during a meeting with Chattogram's business community as part of a Pakistani business delegation. 

The meeting took place today (23 January) at the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce & Industry's (CCCI) conference hall.

In the meeting, the Pakistan high commissioner stated that the focus should not only be on increasing exports from Pakistan but also on finding ways to do the same from Bangladesh. 

There have been noticeable changes in trade relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh over the last few months. As part of this, direct maritime communication has commenced between the two countries. Additionally, the Bangladesh government has recently taken steps to import 50,000 metric tonnes of rice from Pakistan, he said.

Maroof invited the business owners from Chattogram to visit Pakistan to help explore new areas of trade, including the launch of direct flights between Dhaka and Islamabad.

Chattogram's Additional Divisional Commissioner (General) and the Administrator of the CCCI Muhammad Anwar Pasha presided over the meeting.

Pasha said although there is a trade relationship between the two countries, there is limited export of significant products from Bangladesh to Pakistan. 

Noting that Pakistan is Bangladesh's 19th largest import partner, he said, "Bangladesh imports approximately $700 million worth of goods from Pakistan every year."

Therefore, both countries should eliminate trade barriers, particularly non-tariff barriers, and work to implement the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) and the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) among D-8 Member States  to reduce the trade deficit, he added.

Trade and Investment Attaché Zain Aziz stated that the Pakistani high commission is ready to resolve any issues related to imports and exports. He encouraged resolving any problems through the Bangladesh high commission in Pakistan.

Other speakers at the meeting discussed the demand for Pakistani fruits such as dates and oranges in Bangladesh. They urged for the export of these fruits while maintaining their quality.