Bangladesh and India are looking to remove barriers to bilateral trade by reopening closed border haats, restoring full operations at land ports and easing restrictions on yarn imports through land routes.

The proposals were discussed at a meeting between Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir and Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Monday.

Following the meeting, Muktadir said trade between the two neighbours is currently worth around $13 billion. He noted, however, that commercial activities have slowed over the past year and a half due to various restrictions and operational challenges.

The two sides discussed ways to address those issues and create a more business-friendly environment for traders and investors.

Muktadir said the government has also proposed forming a joint taskforce and upgrading digital infrastructure to improve coordination between businesses in Bangladesh and India. Such measures could help expand trade, attract investment and strengthen private-sector links.

India remains Bangladesh’s second-largest trading partner after China, making smoother trade relations important for both economies.

Trivedi said stronger economic cooperation would benefit both countries, despite differences in political and economic perspectives. He emphasised that both nations should work together to promote development and create greater opportunities for younger generations.

The Indian envoy also called for greater cooperation in investment and joint production. He highlighted Bangladesh’s successful readymade garment industry and said Indian businesses could contribute by supplying essential production inputs, including zippers, machinery and buttons.

According to Trivedi, deeper cooperation in the apparel supply chain could strengthen economic interdependence and generate new business opportunities.

He also praised Bangladesh’s garment exports and said he was proud to see products bearing the “Made in Bangladesh” label in international markets.

Trivedi suggested that expanded joint ventures between companies from the two countries could help Bangladesh’s garment industry grow further while creating additional avenues for bilateral economic cooperation.