---

Speakers at a regional trade conference in Dhaka on Thursday called for collective efforts to boost trade and investment among South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) member states. They said stronger connectivity, removal of trade barriers, and collaboration in key sectors could unlock vast opportunities for the region’s economy.

The event, titled “Advancing Global and Regional Trade and Investment”, brought together business leaders, policymakers, and trade experts.

Push for Regional Collaboration

SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Jashim Uddin said regional trade must be expanded as global economic and political dynamics shift rapidly. “We need to increase our regional trade among the SAARC countries,” he said, adding that the region should focus on developing skilled manpower to harness the potential of its large youth population.

Policy Exchange Bangladesh Chairman Dr M Masrur Reaz echoed the call for closer cooperation, stressing that joint investments in trade and industry would benefit all member states.

Connectivity and Unified Voice

SAARC Secretariat official Bhavesh R Trivedi emphasized the need to strengthen transport and trade connectivity while removing barriers that limit intra-regional commerce. Vice President of the SAARC Chamber Chandi Raj Dhakal noted that nearly 42% of the region’s population is young, representing both a challenge and an opportunity. “We need to focus on a unified voice in the WTO forum for economic benefits of South Asian countries,” he said.

Speakers also highlighted untapped potential in power and energy, information technology, and human resources that could drive long-term growth if countries work together.

Broader Participation

The discussion also featured contributions from FBCCI Secretary General Alamgir Hossain, FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh, FBCCI Director Syed Sadat Almas Kabir, and Max Group Director Golam Md Alamgir.

Participants agreed that South Asia’s future prosperity lies in collective action, with regional businesses playing a key role in deepening trade ties and securing stronger global positioning.