India's High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, has emphasized that strengthening economic cooperation should be the top priority in Bangladesh-India relations, arguing that stronger trade and business ties can help improve broader bilateral engagement.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting with Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muqtadir at the Secretariat on Monday, Trivedi said both countries should focus on development, investment, and economic growth despite occasional political differences.

“There may be political and economic issues between neighboring countries, but people on both sides—especially the younger generation—want progress and prosperity,” he said.

Focus on Trade and Joint Production

The Indian envoy highlighted the potential for deeper industrial cooperation, particularly in the garment sector, where Bangladesh is a global leader.

According to Trivedi, India could supply inputs such as zippers, buttons, and machinery while Bangladesh continues to expand its garment manufacturing capacity, creating a mutually beneficial production network.

He also praised Bangladesh’s ready-made garment industry, noting that seeing “Made in Bangladesh” labels in major international markets reflects the country's growing role in global trade.

Bilateral Trade Worth $13 Billion

Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muqtadir said current bilateral trade between Bangladesh and India stands at approximately $13 billion, making India Bangladesh’s second-largest trading partner after China.

The minister acknowledged that some trade-related challenges had emerged over the past year and a half, but both sides discussed ways to improve market access, simplify trade procedures, and strengthen economic cooperation.

Key issues discussed reportedly included:

• Reopening and fully activating land border trade routes
• Reviving border markets (border haats)
• Reviewing restrictions on yarn imports through land ports
• Exploring new investment opportunities
• Creating joint business task forces
• Expanding digital and trade infrastructure cooperation

A Push for Future-Focused Relations

Officials from both countries indicated that efforts are underway to accelerate commercial engagement and encourage greater collaboration between businesses.

Analysts say the renewed emphasis on trade reflects a broader strategy to maintain stability in Bangladesh-India relations through economic interdependence and regional growth.