Pakistan and Bangladesh have restored economic cooperation after an almost 20-year break, evidenced by the 9th Session of the Joint Economic Commission (JEC), held in Dhaka on October 27, 2025 and first since 2005. This renewed engagement signals improved bilateral ties focused on trade, connectivity, and regional cooperation.
Key Outcomes from the JEC Meeting
The Joint Economic Commission meeting co-chaired by Pakistan’s Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik and Bangladesh Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed led to several notable agreements:
Halal Trade Cooperation: Pakistan Halal Authority and Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institute have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement aims to facilitate joint certification and standardization of halal products, opening opportunities for export to global markets.
Geo News
Port Access Proposal: Pakistan has proposed that Bangladesh gain access to Karachi Port Trust (KPT) for trade with China and Central Asian nations, in an initiative intended to enhance connectivity and expand global trade networks. Hindustan Times.
Both countries agreed to establish direct air links, furthering people-to-people contact, tourism, and business exchanges. Arab News WTCEC
Even with their renewed diplomatic relations, bilateral trade between Pakistan and Bangladesh remains modest. In 2024-25 fiscal year alone, their trade valued approximately $865 million with Pakistan exports totalling about $778 million and Bangladeshi jute products accounting for roughly 38% of exports to Pakistan.
India Today reported during the JEC meeting, Bangladesh requested Pakistan remove existing import tariffs on jute products in order to promote trade and address their trade deficit.
The Business Standard published Regional and Strategic Implications.
Pakistan and Bangladesh view the revival of economic ties as an effective strategy to increase regional cooperation. Both nations stressed the significance of revitalizing South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
Additionally, both nations agreed to establish focal points within key ministries – civil aviation and maritime affairs in particular – in order to monitor progress and follow through on agreed projects. Our Print Issue: Challenges and Prospects for Collaboration on ThePrint.
Economic cooperation between Bangladesh and Pakistan has seen a welcome rebound, yet challenges still exist. Issues related to the 1971 Liberation War remain contentious between them and have put considerable strain on bilateral relations. Bangladesh has repeatedly asked Pakistan for an official apology for what occurred back then but this request remains unfulfilled.
Even with its difficulties, the renewed economic partnership presents both countries with opportunities to strengthen trade, investment, and regional cooperation. Direct air connectivity and port access proposals are steps towards strengthening logistical links and smoothing trade flows.
Conclusion In conclusion, the revival of Pakistan-Bangladesh economic partnership represents an important step toward strengthening bilateral ties. While historical issues remain, focusing on economic cooperation and regional integration provides a solid basis for more robust, mutually beneficial relations in the future.