Written by The Banking Post
Afghanistan has expressed strong interest in expanding bilateral trade with Bangladesh, signalling plans to import Bangladeshi ready-made garments while exporting cotton, dry fruits and other agricultural products.
The intent was conveyed at a meeting in Dhaka on Monday between Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman and Afghanistan’s Deputy Minister for Industry and Commerce, Mawlavi Ahmedullah Zahid, according to officials. Senior Afghan business leaders also attended the discussions, which focused on broadening trade and commercial cooperation.
Members of the visiting Afghan delegation highlighted demand for Bangladeshi apparel and proposed greater market access for Afghan products such as cotton, dry fruits and peanuts. Afghan business representatives are also expected to hold separate meetings with Bangladeshi traders to explore concrete import-export opportunities.
Officials said the Afghan team is in Bangladesh to attend the Dhaka International Trade Fair and is using the visit to engage both government and private-sector stakeholders. Although the two countries do not maintain formal diplomatic relations, the discussions are seen as a step toward strengthening economic engagement.
The 50-member high-level delegation aims to promote regional economic cooperation, simplify trade procedures and assess potential joint investment opportunities, the sources added.
