Call to boost Bangladesh-Bhutan trade utilising transit, PTA

Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi has urged the businesses to boost bilateral trade with Bhutan utilising the transit facilities and preferential trade agreement (PTA).

“Bangladesh and Bhutan signed PTA in 2020 and traffic-in-transit agreement in March this year. These instruments enhance bilateral trade and economic activities. The businesses should utilise the facilities to strengthen bilateral relationship,” Tipu Munshi said while inaugurating Bhutan trade and investment fair in the capital on Friday.

Royal Bhutanese Embassy is organising the three-day exhibition at Gulshan shooting club in Dhaka.

Addressing the function, Tipu Munshi said the government is establishing 100 economic zones of which many facilities have already commissioned.

“We provide country-oriented special economic zones for India, Japan and South Korea. We can develop a special economic zone for Thimpu businesses in Kurigram border near to Bhutan border,” he said.

The commerce minister mentioned Bangladesh as a ‘connectivity hub in the region.

“The international airport in Syedpur and two land ports with rail connectivity can contribute in economic activities of Bhutan,” Munshi added.

Bhutanese ambassador Rinchen Kuentsyl was, among other high ups from diplomatic missions and business community, present on the occasion.

Some 25 companies from Bhutan are showcasing premium qulity products of their country. There will be held special seminar on investment opportunities in agriculture and food industry in Bhutan.