Pakistan eyes $3 billion exports to Bangladesh as ties improve

Pakistan’s leading business chamber has unveiled an ambitious plan to boost exports to Bangladesh to $3 billion within the next few years, as both South Asian nations move toward strengthening trade and repairing relations after decades of strained ties.

According to a report by Arab News, the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) shared the target during the 48th DyeChem Bangladesh 2025 Expo in Dhaka, one of the region’s most prominent exhibitions for the textile and chemical industries.

FPCCI Sets New Trade Ambitions

The initiative was formally highlighted by FPCCI Senior Vice President Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, who, along with Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Haider, inaugurated the Pakistan Pavilion at the international expo.

“Pakistan’s exports to Bangladesh can be increased to $3 billion within a couple of years, up from the current figure of around $800 million,” the FPCCI said in its statement.

Magoon further noted that in the medium term, Pakistan’s export potential to Bangladesh could range between $5–7 billion, underlining the vast opportunities for expansion.

Bangladesh: A Textile Powerhouse

Calling Bangladesh a “global textile and apparel powerhouse,” the FPCCI emphasized its significance as a high-value market for Pakistani dyestuffs and textile chemicals.

“The 48th DyeChem Bangladesh 2025 Expo offers a direct opportunity to engage with a $47 billion textile and apparel industry that continues to grow every year,” Magoon added.

High Commissioner Imran Haider reassured exporters of full diplomatic and logistical support in entering and expanding into the Bangladeshi market.

Political and Economic Context

The renewed focus on trade comes at a time when Pakistan and Bangladesh are working to reset ties after years of political tension.

In August 2024, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar made a landmark visit to Dhaka — widely regarded as a breakthrough in bilateral relations. Since then, Islamabad has pursued closer engagement, particularly after the ouster of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during a student-led uprising. The political shift has altered Dhaka’s foreign policy outlook, opening new avenues for cooperation with Pakistan.

Meanwhile, tensions between Bangladesh and India have increased following New Delhi’s decision to grant asylum to Hasina after her removal. In contrast, Pakistan and Bangladesh have taken steps toward greater economic integration, including the launch of direct sea trade in 2024 and the expansion of government-to-government commerce earlier in 2025.

A Path Forward

The FPCCI’s $3 billion target signals Pakistan’s intent to position itself as a stronger trade partner for Bangladesh. With opportunities in textiles, chemicals, and related industries, business leaders believe the groundwork is being laid for a long-term partnership that could benefit both economies.