Pakistan Eyes Stronger Trade Links
The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has set its sights on boosting Pakistan’s exports to Bangladesh to $3 billion within the next couple of years. The announcement came during the 48th DyeChem Bangladesh 2025 Expo in Dhaka, an international trade exhibition for textile and chemical industries.
FPCCI Senior Vice President Saquib Fayyaz Magoon inaugurated the Pakistan Pavilion alongside Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Haider, underscoring Islamabad’s renewed commitment to enhancing bilateral trade.
From $800 Million to $3 Billion
Currently, Pakistan’s exports to Bangladesh stand at approximately $800 million. According to FPCCI, short-term efforts could raise this figure to $3 billion, while medium-term export potential has been estimated at $5–7 billion.
Highlighting the opportunity, the FPCCI described Bangladesh as a “global textile and apparel powerhouse” that can serve as a significant market for Pakistani textile chemicals and dyestuffs.
Bangladesh’s Growing Textile Market
Bangladesh’s textile and apparel industry is valued at around $47 billion and continues to expand annually. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon noted that exhibitions such as DyeChem offer a direct pathway for Pakistani exporters to integrate into this growing market.
He emphasized that Pakistan’s robust textile chemical sector is well positioned to contribute to Bangladesh’s supply chain, creating a win-win scenario for both economies.
Support From Pakistan’s Mission in Dhaka
High Commissioner Imran Haider assured exporters of full diplomatic support, adding that Pakistan’s participation in trade events in Bangladesh reflects Islamabad’s seriousness in rebuilding economic ties.
The warming of relations follows Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s landmark visit to Dhaka in August 2024, aimed at resetting ties after decades of strained relations.
A Reset in Bilateral Relations
Pakistan and Bangladesh, once united before the 1971 split, have made notable progress in mending relations in recent months. Tensions eased significantly following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during a student-led uprising in 2024.
With Dhaka’s ties with New Delhi currently strained, Islamabad has sought to expand trade and cooperation with Bangladesh. Both countries resumed sea trade last year and initiated government-to-government commerce earlier in 2025.
