Pakistan-Bangladesh business forum eagers to boost trade, economic ties

Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin and Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Syed Ahmed Maroof, jointly inaugurated the Pakistan-Bangladesh Business Forum, 2025, in Dhaka on Monday.

The programme was aimed to further enhancing bilateral trade and commercial cooperation between the two countries.

The Forum featured a visiting multi-sectoral business delegation from Pakistan, representing textiles, sports goods, sports-wear and maize sectors, reports a press release.

In his remarks, Bashir Uddin emphasised the importance of engagement between the business communities of both countries to tap the untapped trade potential and foster sustainable commercial ties for mutual benefit.

He welcomed the delegation from Pakistan and expressed hope that the Forum would open new avenues for mutual trade, investment, and economic collaboration.

"We have shared goals and shared aspirations. We need to find enablers and I am sure there are many opportunities which can resonate and create true business opportunities, "said the adviser.

He also encouraged the delegates to shake hands and ensure that the bilateral trade can rise to its true potential.

The adviser assured the business leaders of the Interim Government’s full support and facilitation to enhance bilateral trade.

Speaking at the forum, Maroof underlined that Pakistan and Bangladesh, with their complementary economies and dynamic business communities, hold significant potential for bilateral trade and investment.

He expressed confidence that by easing trade barriers, promoting investment partnerships, and strengthening people-to-people and business-to-business linkages, the two countries can unlock new opportunities for shared growth and prosperity.

Maroof termed the Business Forum a timely and important initiative for strengthening mutually beneficial economic cooperation.

The Forum also entailed the signing of an MoU between the Bangladesh Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and the Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association. An MoU was also signed between the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) and the Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers Association (PHMA)

Business leaders from both Pakistan and Bangladesh attending the Forum expressed optimism that the platform would help identify new areas of cooperation, encourage direct interactions, and lay the groundwork for expanding trade and commercial partnerships in the coming months.