Bangladesh-India trade to continue in interest of both countries: Bashir

Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin today said the trade between Bangladesh and India will continue in the interest of the consumers and the businesses of both countries, reports BSS.
 "We don't know anything officially about India's steps yet. Once we do, we will take appropriate steps. If any issue arises, both sides will work to resolve those through discussions," he said while talking to reporters at the Secretariat in the city about India's decision on importing goods from Bangladesh.  
Referring to media reports, he said they have learned from social media and media outlets that India has taken certain decisions affecting specific land ports, including Akhaura and Dawki, as well as some border areas.
"Our main focus is to achieve competitiveness. A large portion of our exports comes from the garment sector. The trade is beneficial to both countries. India also has a strong textile industry, yet they import our products based on our capabilities," he added.
He expressed optimism that the trade would continue, saying this is in the interest of consumers and production sectors on both sides.
On the matter of India's reported restrictions on transshipment and exports, the adviser mentioned that transshipment hasn't had any significant impact on Bangladesh.
"We've managed the situation using our own capacity," he added.
Bashir, however, said that trade is a matter of competitiveness, including transport costs. "Sometimes we impose bans on agricultural imports, and so does India. This is part of the regular trade management process. Any arising issues will be addressed through dialogue," he added.