Heightened trade with Pakistan crucial
Gazi Anowar :
As Bangladesh and Pakistan resume political dialogue after a 13-year hiatus, experts and policymakers stress that expanding trade cooperation with Pakistan is not only a timely decision but also crucial for promoting Bangladesh’s national interests.
In recent years, Bangladesh’s economy has seen a robust growth, led by its garment industry, remittance inflows, and a rapidly expanding digital sector. However, economists argue that for this momentum to continue, the country must diversify its trade partnerships-particularly within the region.
“Bangladesh must strengthen trade relations with Pakistan, not out of sentiment, but out of strategic necessity,” said Professor Dr. Shahiduzzaman, a noted scholar of international relations at Dhaka University. “It is in our national interest to explore new markets, attract investment, and build regional trade routes. Pakistan offers potential in these areas.”
Despite lingering political tensions rooted in the 1971 Liberation War, analysts’ note that trade has historically acted as a stabilizing force, even during periods of strained relations.
Currently, trade between Bangladesh and Pakistan remains far below potential, even though both countries have complementary sectors such as textiles, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and light manufacturing.
Diplomatic sources confirmed that during a bilateral dialogue held in Dhaka on April 29, 2025, both nations expressed a strong willingness to reinvigorate private sector cooperation and reduce non-tariff barriers.
The key issues discussed included the revival of direct shipping links and improvements in visa protocols for business delegations.
Officials believe these initiatives could significantly increase bilateral trade volumes, which have remained stagnant due to years of diplomatic inertia.
However, challenges persist. Anti-Pakistan sentiment remains prevalent among segments of Bangladesh’s population, and domestic politics could slow the pace of cooperation.
Additionally, India’s strategic influence in the region continues to shape Dhaka’s foreign policy decisions.
Still, many observers argue that diversified diplomacy-including closer ties with Pakistan-can reduce overdependence on a single regional partner and enhance Bangladesh’s strategic autonomy.
According to trade experts, greater economic cooperation could lead to lower transport costs, enhanced market access to Central Asia via Pakistan, and mutual benefits in areas like food processing, cotton imports, IT services, and education.
“Foreign policy must be pragmatic,” Dr. Shahiduzzaman said. “We cannot base our decisions solely on past grievances or the need to appease any particular neighbor. Pakistan has signaled its willingness to engage. Ignoring this opportunity could limit our regional leverage.”
Bangladesh has traditionally leaned on economic partnerships with India and China. However, concerns over trade imbalances and geopolitical tensions have prompted Dhaka to seek more balanced and resilient economic alliances. In this context, experts say that Pakistan presents a viable and strategic option for deeper cooperation.
Proposals under discussion include the re-establishment of direct maritime routes, eased visa requirements, and bilateral trade agreements to lower tariff and non-tariff barriers. If implemented, these measures could stimulate job creation and improve trade outcomes on both sides.
Despite lingering public skepticism and historical baggage, many believe that sustained economic collaboration can serve as a pathway to normalized relations.
“The goal is not to forget history, but to move forward responsibly,” Dr. Shahiduzzaman added. “Engaging Pakistan economically gives Bangladesh more options, more partners, and greater resilience. That’s a wise policy.”
The revival of political dialogue between Dhaka and Islamabad presents a window of opportunity. Whether it can be transformed into meaningful economic cooperation now rests on the commitment of both governments-and the proactive involvement of their private sectors.