The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) has called for the strengthening of trade relations between Bangladesh and Myanmar, stressing the need to swiftly address the existing challenges hindering bilateral trade.
FBCCI President Mahbubul Alam made the remarks during a courtesy meeting with Myanmar’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, U Aung Kyaw Moe, at the FBCCI office in Dhaka’s Gulshan area. FBCCI Vice President Shomi Kaiser and other directors were also present, according to a press release.
FBCCI Calls for Strengthening Trade Relations Between Bangladesh and Myanmar
Alam highlighted that despite the long-standing friendly relations between Bangladesh and Myanmar, the trade volume between the two neighbouring countries remains low. He pointed out that although there are numerous sectors with untapped potential, both countries have yet to fully capitalise on these opportunities. He also noted that the trade once flourished with Yangon through Chattogram port, but over time, the volume of trade has declined.
He urged both nations to resolve existing issues, including the ongoing Rohingya crisis, as a means to boost commercial ties. “If the current challenges, particularly the Rohingya issue, can be addressed, both countries will significantly benefit from enhanced trade,” Alam said.
In his address, Alam also called for Myanmar to take more proactive measures to resolve the Rohingya crisis. He underscored that Bangladesh has gained international recognition for its products, including ready-made garments, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, jute, and leather goods, and expressed hope that Myanmar could import these items. Furthermore, he suggested that Myanmar could export rice, onions, and spices to Bangladesh.
Alam also encouraged Myanmar to play a role in meeting Bangladesh’s growing energy needs and invited Myanmar’s business community to invest in Bangladesh’s Special Economic Zones.
In response, Myanmar Ambassador Aung Kyaw Moe emphasised the historically friendly relations between the two countries. He reminded the attendees that Myanmar was one of the first five nations to recognise Bangladesh in 1971. Ambassador Aung Kyaw Moe expressed Myanmar’s interest in further enhancing trade relations and also voiced the country’s intent to introduce direct flights between Myanmar and Bangladesh. Additionally, he assured that Myanmar’s government is committed to collaborating with Bangladesh to resolve the Rohingya issue.
Supplementary Information:
The bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Myanmar has vast potential, especially in sectors like agriculture, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. Strengthening these ties could significantly benefit both economies. The Rohingya crisis remains a critical issue affecting trade and diplomatic relations, but resolving this would pave the way for more robust economic cooperation. Furthermore, direct flights between the two countries could improve travel and trade connectivity, making the trade processes smoother and more efficient.