Pakistan Delegation Heads to Bangladesh to Strengthen Economic Ties

The delegation aims to enhance economic

commercial, and trade relations

between the two countries

Business Reporter

Karachi: The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) has announced that a multi-sectoral exporters’ delegation will visit Bangladesh this week. Led by FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh, the delegation aims to enhance economic, commercial, and trade relations between the two countries.

High-Profile Meetings on the Agenda

The delegation is set to meet key Bangladeshi leaders, including Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor to the interim government, and Sheikh Bashir Uddin, Commerce Advisor. Over 35 businessmen from diverse industries will join the mission, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to fostering economic diplomacy.

Atif Ikram Sheikh highlighted the potential of economic diplomacy to create interdependencies that lead to wealth and prosperity. “Through industrial collaborations, joint ventures, and B2B engagements, we can achieve milestones that seem difficult through political diplomacy alone,” he stated.

Collaboration with Bangladesh’s Diplomatic Mission

H.E. Mahbubul Alam, Deputy High Commissioner of Bangladesh in Karachi, recently visited FPCCI’s Federation House to discuss the delegation’s activities and scope. He assured expedited visa issuance and facilitation for genuine Pakistani businessmen participating in trade promotion activities.

Exploring Opportunities at Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF)

The delegation will also attend the Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) to explore international trends and mutual cooperation opportunities. With participation from industries such as electronics, garments, industrial machinery, carpets, and ceramics, the event offers a platform for trade expansion.

The visit includes participation in the Pakistan-Bangladesh Business Forum organized by the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FBCCI) on January 13, 2025.

Untapped Potential in Bilateral Trade

Currently, bilateral trade between Pakistan and Bangladesh stands at $800 million. Deputy High Commissioner Mahbubul Alam noted that this figure could easily rise to $2–3 billion with the realization of untapped export potential.

Learning from Bangladesh’s Microfinance Model

FPCCI Vice President Aman Paracha emphasized the socio-economic and cultural similarities between the two nations. He highlighted the potential for Pakistan to learn from Bangladesh’s microfinance model for poverty alleviation, empowering SMEs, and fostering women’s emancipation.

A Vision for Stronger Economic Ties

The FPCCI delegation’s visit signifies a step toward stronger economic ties with Bangladesh, focusing on shared growth, innovation, and collaboration.