Bangladesh has called for the removal of restrictions on its exports through Indian land ports, withdrawal of anti-dumping duties on Bangladeshi jute products and PET film, and continuation of tariff preferences after graduating from the least developed country (LDC) category.
The issues featured prominently at the 16th meeting of the Bangladesh–India Joint Working Group (JWG) on Trade, which began in New Delhi on October 8 for a two-day discussion on bilateral trade barriers, land port infrastructure and regional connectivity, said a press release here today.
A 10-member Bangladesh delegation led by Ayesha Akhter, additional secretary to the Ministry of Commerce, participated in the meeting.
At the meeting, Bangladesh has sought a review of existing restrictions on its goods entering India through land ports, alongside the removal of tariff and non-tariff barriers that limit access to the Indian market.
The delegation also called for consideration of withdrawing anti-dumping duties imposed on Bangladeshi jute products and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film, which have implications for exporters seeking to expand their presence in the Indian market.
Another key priority is retaining existing tariff preferences for Bangladeshi products following the country's graduation from the LDC category. Bangladesh has sought consideration of continuing benefits available under the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) agreement.
To facilitate market access, Bangladesh has also stressed the need to harmonise product standards, promote mutual recognition and simplify certification procedures under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
The discussions have also focused on expanding regional freight movement, with Bangladesh seeking greater access for its freight trucks travelling to Nepal and Bhutan through Indian territory.
The delegation has raised the need to operationalise the CEOs’ Forum to strengthen direct engagement between businesses in the two countries and identify opportunities for expanding bilateral trade and investment.
Improving infrastructure at Indian land customs stations is another priority on Bangladesh's agenda. The proposals include better access roads, parking facilities, warehouses, sheds and cargo inspection and quarantine facilities to facilitate smoother cross-border trade.
Increasing land port capacity and accelerating cargo clearance have also been discussed as measures to reduce delays and the cost of moving goods between the two countries.
India, meanwhile, has proposed removing restrictions on exports of cotton yarn and other products to Bangladesh through certain land ports. Its agenda also includes easing barriers to exports from northeastern Indian states to Bangladesh, improving regional connectivity and expanding multimodal transport.
The two sides have further discussed improving the efficiency of trade routes, including the Akhaura–Agartala link, strengthening rail connectivity and resolving issues related to border haats.
Both countries have emphasised the importance of reducing the time and cost of bilateral trade through more efficient land ports, streamlined customs procedures and improved border operations.
The discussions come amid efforts to make greater use of the two countries' geographical proximity and regional transport links to expand trade.
Removing market access barriers and improving cross-border cargo movement are key to translating this potential into increased commercial opportunities.
