Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan met with Bangladesh’s Adviser for Commerce, Sheikh Bashir Uddin, in Dhaka on Friday. Both sides agreed to strengthen trade ties and boost economic cooperation. The meeting marked a positive step after years of limited engagement between the two countries.
According to the Ministry of Commerce, they discussed creating a Joint Working Group on Trade. This group will help develop future trade strategies and remove barriers to investment. Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Imran Haider, also attended the talks. The two leaders agreed to revive the Joint Economic Commission (JEC), which last met in 2005.
Arrived in Dhaka for official visit to strengthen Pakistan-Bangladesh trade & economic cooperation. Thankful to Advisor Commerce brother Sheikh Bashir Udin for receiving us at the airport.
Looking forward to engagements with officials & business leades, #PakBangladesh pic.twitter.com/ce4FZIy3FM
— Jam Kamal Khan (@jam_kamal) August 21, 2025
The countries also planned to form a joint trade commission. It will set clear goals and outline steps for improving trade. The officials discussed potential collaboration in sectors like agriculture, renewable energy, shipbuilding, minerals, halal products, and agro-processing. They also explored reducing tariffs and giving preferential access to certain Bangladeshi goods.
Both sides stressed the importance of improving logistics and reducing trade costs. They acknowledged that untapped trade potential exists and agreed to take action quickly. The statement said both governments are now focused on creating a more business-friendly environment.
The visit comes after major political changes in Bangladesh, including the departure of former Prime Minister Hasina. Since then, Islamabad and Dhaka have made efforts to reset relations. On Thursday, Jam Kamal also met with Bangladesh’s Adviser for Industries to explore industrial partnerships and joint ventures.