Business Desk 
Jan 12, 2025
In a groundbreaking move in favour of Pakistanis willing to move abroad to seek better employment opportunities, Bangladesh has simplified its visa process for Pakistanis to strengthen trade and economic ties.
The High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Pakistan Iqbal Hussain brought the development to light during a meeting at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) on Saturday.
Hussain announced that the incumbent government of Dhaka has also waived clearance for Pakistani heads of missions fetching visas.
He highlighted that current trade volumes are far below capacity but could grow significantly with collaboration.
The high commissioner of Bangladesh also emphasised the importance of regional cooperation in boosting South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
He added that collective efforts are needed to overcome challenges and boost economic progress in South Asia.
Moreover, disclosing trade figures, LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad said Pakistan-Bangladesh trade reached $718 million in 2023-24, adding that Pakistan exported goods worth $661m, while imports from Bangladesh totalled $57m.
He expressed hopes of increasing trade to $2 billion soon, focusing on sectors like IT, pharmaceuticals, rice, surgical instruments, automotive parts, and sports goods.
Shad urged both governments and private sectors to take decisive actions. He stressed that the simplified visa process for Pakistanis would promote better business opportunities and cooperation.
Furthermore, the High Commissioner also reflected on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, stressing the importance of international partnerships to maintain smooth trade.
