Bangladesh Diplomat Engages with FPCCI for Enhanced Bilateral Trade

Bangladesh is establishing 100 specialized

economic zones to attract global

investments, including from Pakistan

Staff Reporter

Karachi: Bangladesh Deputy High Commissioner in Karachi, S. M. Mahbubul Alam, held an interactive meeting with the office bearers of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) at its headquarters in Karachi. The meeting saw participation from prominent businesspersons representing diverse sectors.

Deputy High Commissioner Alam welcomed the 35-member FPCCI delegation led by President Atif Ikram Sheikh. The delegation includes chairpersons, proprietors, CEOs, managing directors, and directors of leading Pakistani companies. This delegation is set to visit Bangladesh from January 10 to 15, 2025, following the successful visit of a 21-member FPCCI delegation in 2023 under former President Irfan Iqbal Sheikh.

FPCCI Delegation’s Planned Activities in Bangladesh

The delegation’s agenda includes meetings with key dignitaries, including the Commerce Advisor of Bangladesh’s Interim Government, representatives of the Federation and various chambers, the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), and the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA). Additionally, they will participate in the Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) 2025, scheduled for January in Dhaka.

Deputy High Commissioner Alam highlighted the significance of the DITF, organized by Bangladesh’s Commerce Ministry in collaboration with the EPB. The 29th edition of this month-long fair will feature around 400 pavilions and stalls, attracting international companies from countries like Türkiye, India, Pakistan, Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. The fair showcases a diverse range of products, including textiles, electronics, furniture, leather goods, processed foods, and handicrafts. It also serves as a platform for cultural exchange and networking.

Opportunities for Trade Expansion

Deputy High Commissioner Alam emphasized Bangladesh’s commitment to fostering foreign investment through its investor-friendly policies. The country is establishing 100 specialized economic zones to attract global investments, including from Pakistan. Pakistani investors were encouraged to explore opportunities in these zones.

FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh noted that globalization has brought countries closer, increasing the scope for bilateral trade. He expressed optimism about fully utilizing the untapped potential between Pakistan and Bangladesh. FPCCI Senior Vice-President Saquib Fayaaz Magoon added that both countries are eager to enhance bilateral trade.

Key Export Opportunities

Representatives from various Pakistani trade associations highlighted export potential to Bangladesh. These include:

• Agricultural Products: Kinnow, onions, apples, dates, mangoes, grapes, vegetables, fruit juices, and spices.
• Industrial Goods: Rice, jute products, leather goods, pharmaceutical products, ready-made garments, and ceramics.
• Miscellaneous Items: Electronics, cosmetics, toys, bicycles, and household appliances.

The Bangladesh Deputy High Commissioner and FPCCI leaders also discussed the potential for joint ventures, industrial collaborations, business-to-business (B2B) engagements, and chamber-to-chamber partnerships. Both parties expressed optimism about fostering mutual benefits through expanded trade, commerce, and investment.

Support and Cooperation

Deputy High Commissioner Alam assured the FPCCI delegation of comprehensive support, including prioritized visa processing for businesspersons. He expressed confidence that the upcoming visit would strengthen ties, create networking opportunities, and enhance bilateral trade relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh.