Dhaka, Islamabad eye deeper trade ties: Pakistan commerce minister

Pakistan's Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan has called for enhanced business-to-business collaboration between Bangladesh and Pakistan, stressing joint ventures, trade facilitation, and a possible Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) to boost bilateral economic relations.

Speaking at a views-exchange meeting with the business community in Chattogram today (22 August), the minister emphasised that both countries already have complementary industries in food, textiles, garments, leather, and footwear. 

The meeting, organised by the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), was attended by Bangladesh's Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin held at the World Trade Center in the port city.

Photo: TBS

He noted that "we don't have to do a lot of hard research work" since many sectors are already aligned, but highlighted the importance of joint venture collaborations.

Khan revealed that more than 10 Pakistani delegations have already visited Bangladesh and encouraged Bangladeshi businesses to reciprocate by attending Pakistan's trade fairs, including its upcoming flagship food expo in November.

He said such events provide a vital platform for exploring markets and building partnerships.

On connectivity, Khan said, "Progress is underway with Pakistan's aviation ministry to finalise direct flights between the two countries by the end of this year, which would ease trade logistics and people-to-people interaction. He also pointed out recent improvements in Pakistan's visa processing system, making it faster and fully online."

The minister further noted discussions on student exchanges, healthcare facilitation, agriculture, and industry as part of a broader trade roadmap to be finalized in coming years.

On 24 August, both countries are scheduled to sign a joint working group agreement, with the Joint Economic Commission — headed by the finance ministers — tasked with identifying priority sectors for trade and investment.

Khan also raised the possibility of drafting a PTA to grant exclusivity in certain sectors, allowing both countries to identify potential areas for mutual benefit.

Speaking about shipping connectivity between the two countries, he said, "Pakistan National Shipping Corporation is our main carrier. This year, they plan to purchase more vessels — not just large ships, but also cargo and container ships for shorter routes.

"Through this, we are considering greater regional connectivity. In this regard, trade volume is very important, because in such businesses it is the shipping lines that determine which routes are commercially viable."

He added, "However, if there is specific direct trade in goods such as rice, wheat, or daily essentials between the two countries, then these vessels would benefit both sides. This would not only save time but also reduce costs."

Khan further said, "Recently, a rice-laden ship took more than 10 days to reach Bangladesh. We are trying to identify these obstacles. We are particularly keen on joint ventures—not just Pakistan exporting to Bangladesh or Bangladesh exporting to Pakistan, but entering markets together in Africa, Central Asia, or other regions."

Highlighting global economic shifts and rapid advances in AI and technology, he urged the business community to plan ahead. "It's a very good opportunity for all of us to think where we want to be in another five years' time, how we want our industry to go, and how to better the lives of our people and the business health of our countries."

At the meeting, Bashir Uddin said, "To diversify our trade and enhance capacity, we are trying to connect generously with as many countries as possible. In terms of boosting export growth and strengthening our ability to import at competitive prices, we have explored promising opportunities with our counterpart, the Commerce Minister of Pakistan."

"We are working not only on expanding trade and increasing our import-export capacity but also on many other areas beyond those mentioned by Jam Kamal Khan. I hope that with the united strength of all Bangladeshi businesses, we will achieve greater business growth."

After the meeting, as part of his Bangladesh tour, Jam Kamal Khan also visited the Chattogram Port to explore trade and investment opportunities between Bangladesh and Pakistan.

During the meeting, business leaders highlighted issues including the exchange of industrial raw materials between the two countries, joint efforts to defer the shipbreaking industry convention, and broader prospects for trade, commerce, and investment.

They also called for the launch of direct flights from Chattogram to Pakistan.

Later at 3pm, the minister visited the country's principal seaport. Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin accompanied him during the visit.