DHAKA: Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed, now in the Indian State of Manipur, yesterday said Bangladesh wants to export its quality products to Manipur and adjacent region. “Bangladesh’s exportable goods have earned reputation in the global market,” he said expressing Bangladesh’s interest to export furniture, readymade garments, pharmaceuticals, foodstuff and other products as per demand.
The commerce minister said this in a meeting with Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh at the latter’s office, said a PID handout yesterday. Tofail said both Bangladesh and India would be benefited if Bangladesh’s export to Manipur and other North East States.
He mentioned that India is providing duty- and quota-free market access to Bangladeshi products for reducing trade gap between the two countries. “But, the export didn’t reach expected level due to the imposition of countervailing duties in some cases,” Tofail said adding that Manipur will be able to import Bangladeshi products at a cheaper rates if the problem is resolved through discussions.
Countervailing duties (CVDs), also known as anti-subsidy duties, are trade import duties imposed under World Trade Organization (WTO) rules to neutralise the negative effects of subsidies.
Manipur chief minister appreciated Bangladesh’s socioeconomic development and said his State also keen to have stronger trade ties with Bangladesh. “There’s huge demand for Bangladeshi products in Manipur.” The Bangladesh Minister attended the “Northeast Asean Business Summit 2016” in Manipur on Thursday. An 18-member trade delegation, led by FBCCI President Abdul Matlub Ahmad, is also attending the three-day business summit.
