They also deliberated on digitisation of trade and collaboration in readymade garments and agriculture sectors.
The discussions took place during a one-day official visit of Pakistan’s Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Bangladesh’s Adviser for Commerce Bashiruddin to Chittagong. On arrival, they were welcomed by the district administration and management of Shah Amanat International Airport.
The trip included meetings with representatives of the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a field visit to the Bangladeshi shipbreaking industry and the Chittagong Port.
They interacted with the business community, explored possible avenues of cooperation and discussed trade logistics between the two countries.
The business community at the Chittagong Chamber shared their insights into Pakistan-Bangladesh trade ties and gave proposals for the resumption of direct flights and frequent direct shipping services between the two countries as well as digitisation of trade.
The minister and adviser apprised the business community that a joint working group on trade would be set up soon to provide an institutional framework for dialogue on commerce.
Both leaders acknowledged the massive potential for bilateral trade and investment and invited the business community to visit the 3rd International Food and Agricultural Exhibition in Karachi on November 25-27, 2025.
They also explored the possibility of trilateral cooperation for exporting goods to Africa and Central Asia. There was particular focus on sectors such as healthcare, leather and essential commodities as well as the formulation of Pakistan-Bangladesh Trade and Investment Road Map.
The two officials also visited the Kabir Ship Recycling Facilities, where they were briefed about the potential of collaboration between Pakistan and Bangladesh in shipbuilding, shipbreaking and recycling.
During the visit, the chairman of Chittagong Port Authority gave a presentation on the port’s history, its procedures and ongoing projects.