Nepal-Bangladesh Urged to Strengthen Trade Cooperation to Reduce Imbalance

Kamlesh Kumar Agrawal, President of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the need for cooperation and a smooth business environment to reduce trade imbalance between Nepal and Bangladesh. In a meeting with Bangladesh Ambassador Mohammad Shafiq Rahman, Agrawal highlighted that Nepal imports about $30.88 million annually from Bangladesh but exports only $3.33 million, creating a significant trade deficit.

He pointed out that the lack of direct trade routes and reliance on Indian routes increases costs and delays, urging both countries to prioritize road and rail connectivity.

Agrawal noted that Nepali products like lentils, spices, fruits, and dairy have strong market potential in Bangladesh, which remains underutilized.

He also recommended leveraging the BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal) regional cooperation framework for trade, energy, and transport collaboration, while promoting private-sector partnerships, trade exhibitions, investment conferences, and policy facilitation to strengthen economic ties. Ambassador Rahman is committed to supporting Nepal’s exports and reducing the trade deficit, highlighting tourism potential and the strong cultural and educational ties between the two nations.