Published
03/27/2025, 17:59Priority issues of economic interaction were the subject of a working group meeting between the Eurasian Economic Commission and the Government of Bangladesh. The meeting co-chaired by the EEC Minister of Integration and his counterpart from Bangladesh took place on 26 March at the EEC office.
The ECE Minister stressed the development of dialogue with third countries and Bangladesh's interest in deepening cooperation with the EAEU, noting the traditionally strong economic ties. The ECE head pointed to the growth in trade turnover between the EAEU and Bangladesh after the signing of the Memorandum in 2019, with an increase of 5 per cent in 2024. This came against the backdrop of the EAEU and Bangladesh's GDP growth of 4.2% and 5.7% respectively, which is above the global average. The main export items of EAEU countries to Bangladesh remain agrarian products, energy and machinery, while Bangladesh exports textiles and garments to EAEU.
The minister also highlighted the need for widespread awareness about each other's trade opportunities. Aisha Akter pointed out the untapped potential in trade and economic co-operation, suggesting that EAEU countries should take advantage of Bangladesh's domestic market and invest in infrastructure. The two sides discussed increasing the supply of grain crops, labour migration and simplification of trade procedures. Special attention was paid to the development of logistics supply routes.
Bangladesh confirmed interest in establishing a free trade zone with the EAEU, noting possible benefits for exporters. The participants called for a deeper dialogue between the EAEU and Bangladesh business communities and invited Bangladesh representatives to the Eurasian Economic Forum 2025. The next meeting is scheduled for 2026. The 2019 Memorandum continues to promote positive dynamics of trade turnover between the countries.