BD-Thailand discuss future FTA to boost trade
Bangladesh and Thailand have emphasised the importance of advancing discussions on a future Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to strengthen bilateral trade, investment, connectivity and economic cooperation, said in a press release of the Ministry of
This was highlighted at a policy dialogue titled “Enhancing Bangladesh-Thailand Economic Engagement: Challenges, Opportunities, and the Way Forward in the Future Free Trade Agreement (FTA)”, organised by the Embassy of Bangladesh in Bangkok in collaboration with the International Institute for Trade and Development (ITD) and the Bangladesh Foreign Trade Institute (BFTI) at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok.
The dialogue brought together representatives from government, international organizations, think tanks, chambers of commerce and the private sector of Bangladesh and Thailand to exchange views on opportunities and challenges in deepening bilateral economic engagement through a future FTA.
In the opening session, Ms. Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of ESCAP, Mr. Md. Abdur Rahim Khan, Secretary in-charge, Ministry of Commerce of Bangladesh, and Mr. Suphakit Chareonkul, Executive Director of ITD, highlighted the strategic importance of trade facilitation, regulatory cooperation, supply chain integration and stronger connectivity between Bangladesh and Thailand. They emphasized that a future FTA could help expand market access, support Bangladesh’s smooth LDC graduation, and create new opportunities for businesses in both countries.
Participants observed that bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Thailand reached around USD 1 billion in 2025, while significant untapped potential remains in sectors such as agro-processing, textiles, petrochemicals, energy, healthcare, digital technology, logistics and services. They also stressed the need for more balanced and value-added trade between the two countries.
The dialogue discussed key issues relevant to future FTA negotiations, including trade in goods and services, investment, rules of origin, trade facilitation, intellectual property protection, regulatory cooperation and private sector engagement. Participants also highlighted the importance of improved maritime and logistics connectivity to reduce trade costs and support regional supply chains.
The policy dialogue noted that Bangladesh and Thailand enjoy longstanding friendly relations and complementary economic strengths. Participants agreed that a well-designed FTA could create new opportunities for businesses, enhance investor confidence and contribute to sustainable economic growth in both countries.
Senior representatives from relevant government agencies, think tanks, chambers of commerce, private sector organizations and international institutions of Bangladesh and Thailand also joined the dialogue and shared their views.
