Bangladesh trade 'several billion' short of potential

Pakistan and Bangladesh conduct about $1 billion in bilateral trade, well below the several-billion-dollar level described as achievable by Bangladesh High Commissioner Md Iqbal Hussain Khan. Speaking at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, he called for fewer trade barriers, better transport links and stronger ties between business communities. The Express Tribune reported that he named agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, engineering, food processing and chemicals among possible areas for cooperation.

Khan said imports from Bangladesh could grow to include agricultural goods, textile inputs, chemicals and manufactured products; Bangladeshi pineapples have already started reaching Pakistan after receiving clearances. He also advocated easier business visas and stronger direct air links, while LCCI President Ali Hussam Asghar proposed a dedicated trade cell, priority export sectors and business-to-business meetings. Senior Vice President Sardar Usman Ghani called for bilateral trade to reach at least $2 billion, with joint ventures and improvements to shipping and customs procedures.