ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORTER
Federal Minister for Commerce of Pakistan, Jam Kamal Khan, and Bangladesh’s Commerce Adviser, S.K. Bashir Uddin, undertook a one-day official visit to Chattogram, Bangladesh, where they were warmly received by local administration officials and representatives of Shah Amanat International Airport.
During the visit, the delegation engaged in productive meetings with the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), toured the Chattogram Port, and inspected facilities of Bangladesh’s prominent shipbreaking industry. The officials held direct discussions with members of the local business community, focusing on exploring new avenues for trade cooperation and improving logistics between the two countries.
Business leaders presented valuable suggestions aimed at boosting bilateral trade, including the restoration of direct flights, the establishment of a frequent shipping service, and the digitalization of trade processes between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Both Jam Kamal Khan and S.K. Bashir Uddin announced the upcoming formation of a “Joint Working Group on Trade” to create an institutional framework for formal trade negotiations. Discussions also covered potential collaborations in ready-made garments, agriculture, healthcare, leather goods, and essential commodities.
The two leaders agreed that significant potential exists for enhancing trade and investment between the two countries. They invited Bangladeshi businesses to participate in the 3rd International Food and Agriculture Exhibition, scheduled to be held in Karachi from November 25 to 27, 2025.
Additionally, both sides explored opportunities for joint exports to Africa and Central Asia and discussed the development of a Pakistan-Bangladesh Trade and Investment Roadmap.
The delegation also visited Kabir Ship Recycling Facilities, where they were briefed on prospects for cooperation in shipbuilding, shipbreaking, and recycling sectors.
At Chattogram Port, the Chairman of the Port Authority provided a detailed overview of the port’s history, operations, ongoing projects, and the implementation of Single Window Operations as part of the broader push toward trade digitalization.
