EU reaffirms commitment to expanding trade ties with Bangladesh

The European Union (EU) has expressed strong interest in further expanding trade and investment cooperation with Bangladesh, underscoring the need for a more transparent and business-friendly trading environment.

The interest was conveyed during a meeting today (19 May), between EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller and Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir, held at the Secretariat in, reads a press release.

During the meeting, both sides discussed ways to deepen bilateral trade relations and unlock new investment opportunities.

Discussions focused on reducing non-tariff barriers, simplifying import-export procedures, and enhancing overall trade facilitation to strengthen economic engagement between the two sides.

Muktadir highlighted the EU as one of Bangladesh's most significant trading partners and reiterated the government's commitment to policy and institutional reforms aimed at boosting exports and attracting foreign investment.

He also pointed to ongoing efforts to streamline trade processes and reduce non-tariff barriers, including the publication of the Import Policy Order on the Ministry of Commerce's website for stakeholder feedback.

Ambassador Miller appreciated the government's ongoing efforts to improve the investment climate and noted that while some complex trade issues would require time to resolve, sustained cooperation and dialogue could deliver long-term solutions.

He also reaffirmed that the EU and its business community remain ready to support Bangladesh through technical expertise and constructive engagement.

Both sides expressed optimism that continued dialogue and joint initiatives would help translate shared priorities into practical outcomes for expanding trade and investment cooperation.

Senior officials of the Ministry of Commerce were also present at the meeting.