National dialogue calls for institutionalising trade negotiation capacity

Speakers at a national dialogue emphasised the urgent need to enhance Bangladesh's trade negotiation capacity ahead of its 2026 graduation from the status of a Least Developed Country (LDC).

The dialogue, Reflections & Way Forward: Building National Capabilities in Trade Negotiations, organised by the Ministry of Commerce with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the Transformative Economic Policy Programme (TEPP), financed by the UK Government's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), brought together key stakeholders to discuss this urgent need.

Setting the tone, Sk Bashir Uddin, Hon'ble Adviser to the Ministry of Commerce, addressed the dialogue as the chief guest, saying: "As Bangladesh prepares to graduate from LDC status, the Trade Negotiation School will be vital in equipping our negotiators to secure the nation's interests in a complex global trade landscape."

Continuing the emphasis on capacity, Lutfey Siddiqi, Chief Adviser's Envoy for International Affairs, stressed that trade negotiations require institutional change, specialist expertise, authority, and continuity.

Building on this, British High Commissioner H.E. Sarah Cooke reaffirmed the UK's support: "The UK is proud to support Bangladesh to build a new generation of trade negotiators, and we remain firmly committed to supporting its journey toward a modern, inclusive economy."

Furthering these perspectives, UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller termed LDC graduation "a call for an economic reset," adding: "Bangladesh must craft new trade and investment strategies, negotiate favourable agreements, and defend its interests in global forums. Central to this effort is a skilled and strategic team of trade negotiators."

The event, chaired by Mahbubur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, marked a milestone by recognising members of the newly formed pool of trade negotiators with certificates. Drawn from ministries, agencies, and academia, this cadre is expected to advance Bangladesh's trade interests in bilateral, regional, and multilateral forums.

Through TEPP, UNDP supports the government in strengthening national trade capacities by developing a dedicated pool of trade negotiators, providing specialised training, and establishing institutional mechanisms to ensure long-term sustainability.