Bangladesh seeks Dutch backing for EU trade deal

Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir today sought the Netherlands’ support in advancing negotiations for a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) and expanding Bangladesh’s trade benefits in the European market after its graduation from the least developed country (LDC) category.

The minister sought the cooperation at a meeting with Sjoerd Sjoerdsma, the Netherlands’ minister of foreign trade and development cooperation, held at the commerce ministry in Dhaka.

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Muktadir emphasised the importance of taking bilateral economic relations to a new level by leveraging Dutch technology and investment in agriculture, the jute industry, energy, ports and water management, according to a statement from the commerce ministry.

Highlighting the importance of maintaining Bangladesh’s export competitiveness in the post-LDC era, he said Europe is one of Bangladesh’s most important export markets.

The minister stressed the importance of advancing technical discussions on the proposed FTA with the EU and removing non-tariff barriers.

He particularly noted the potential for joint initiatives to improve the quality and productivity of potatoes and other vegetables, produce export-oriented agricultural goods that meet international standards, and develop new markets.

Regarding cooperation in the jute industry, Muktadir said growing global demand for environment-friendly products was creating new market opportunities for Bangladesh’s jute and jute-based goods.

He noted that Dutch technological assistance could play an important role in developing improved jute seeds, increasing productivity, establishing joint research laboratories and producing diversified jute products.

In particular, he highlighted the potential for adding greater value to the jute industry through environment-friendly packaging and the production of blended-fibre fabrics.

The Dutch minister expressed interest in expanding investment in promising sectors and strengthening existing economic ties with Bangladesh.

He emphasised the importance of drawing on Dutch expertise in agricultural technology, food processing, industrial modernisation, maritime transport and water management.

In the areas of port management and maritime transport, the discussions focused on developing Bangladesh’s port infrastructure, including the Laldia Terminal, establishing modern logistics systems, and exploring potential investment and technological participation by Dutch companies, the statement said.