LAHORE (Special Correspondent) – High Commissioner of Bangladesh Md Iqbal Hussain Khan has identified significant potential to expand Pakistan-Bangladesh trade beyond its current level of approximately US$1 billion to several billion dollars. Speaking at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), he noted that stronger cooperation, improved trade connectivity, and reduced trade barriers are essential to unlock this untapped potential.

Key Points

• Current bilateral trade stands at US$1 billion, with substantial growth potential.
• The High Commissioner highlighted agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and engineering as key collaborative sectors.
• LCCI leadership proposed a dedicated Bangladesh trade cell to coordinate bilateral business activities.
• Direct maritime and air connectivity was identified as a critical requirement for trade efficiency.
• LCCI aims to push trade volumes to at least US$2 billion through result-oriented strategies.

Unlocking Pakistan-Bangladesh Trade Potential

High Commissioner Md Iqbal Hussain Khan outlined that Pakistan and Bangladesh have immense scope for mutual growth. The envoy identified agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, engineering, food processing, chemicals, minerals, education, healthcare, and tourism as high-priority areas. He mentioned that while Pakistani businesses have actively participated in “Made in Pakistan” exhibitions in Bangladesh, reciprocal participation from Bangladeshi firms is expected at a Karachi exhibition this November.

Regarding logistics, the High Commissioner noted that shipping cargo between Karachi and Chittagong currently takes approximately two weeks via intermediate hubs like Colombo, Singapore, or Bangkok. Establishing direct maritime routes could reduce transit time to five or six days. He also called for simplified business visa procedures, enhanced e-visa facilities, and stronger direct air connectivity to facilitate cross-border movement.

Strategic Cooperation and LCCI Initiatives

LCCI President Ali Hussam Asghar proposed the establishment of a dedicated Bangladesh trade cell under the Senior Vice President to monitor bilateral business activities. He emphasized the need for a practical roadmap, suggesting the identification of five priority export sectors and initiating virtual B2B meetings between LCCI and leading chambers in Dhaka or Chittagong.

LCCI Senior Vice President Sardar Usman Ghani stressed the necessity of reversing the current downward trend in bilateral trade, aiming to raise volumes to at least US$2 billion. He emphasized that strengthening economic ties aligns with the LCCI’s commitment to export-led growth and market diversification. LCCI Executive Committee Members, including Naila Nadeem, Shahzad Ali Shah, and Amir Ata Barry, also contributed, highlighting specific opportunities in medical sciences, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and industrial machinery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current state of trade between Pakistan and Bangladesh?

The current bilateral trade between the two nations is approximately US$1 billion, though both parties agree there is potential for growth into the multi-billion dollar range.

What measures have been suggested to improve trade connectivity?

The High Commissioner and LCCI officials suggested establishing direct maritime and air links, simplifying business visa processes, and creating a dedicated trade cell to coordinate sector-specific B2B interactions.