Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has requested that export-import related trade and tariff barriers with India be removed, in order to save time and cost and also boost bilateral business with the neighbouring country.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan made the request as he paid a courtesy call on Foreign Secretary of India Harsh Vardhan Shringla at the latter's official residence in New Delhi on Saturday, according to a statement.
Director of the apex apparel body of Bangladesh Tanvir Ahmed was also present at the meeting.
Both the parties discussed potential areas of cooperation and collaboration, in order to enhance trade between Bangladesh and India, added the statement.
Their talks also focused on existing problems in export-import trade and non-tariff barriers, especially in textile products trading, and possible ways to address them.
Mr Hassan pointed out huge opportunities that lie ahead for Bangladesh and India.
Both the neighbouring countries can gain mutual trade benefits by complementing each other, particularly in boosting apparel and textile businesses, he said.
He said, "India is one of the major markets for importing raw materials for our RMG industry. We import man-made fibre, yarn, fabric, chemicals, machinery, dyes etc."
"Bangladesh is giving emphasis on high-end MMF-based apparel items. India, as a major supplier of textiles including MMF fabrics can meet the growing demand of Bangladesh."
On the other hand, India is a promising export market for Bangladeshi readymade garments due to geographical proximity, competitive price and quality, he said.
So, both countries have scope to tap into the reciprocal trade benefits, added Mr Hassan.
The BGMEA president requested the Indian foreign secretary to take steps to expedite and facilitate trade, especially removing non-tariff barriers and simplification of export-import procedures, through the land ports in order to reduce time and cost.
Munni_fe@yahoo.com