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Bangladesh has launched a fresh initiative to deepen trade and investment relations with New Zealand, focusing on high-potential sectors such as agri-tech, dairy, green energy, pharmaceuticals, leather, jute, sustainable textiles, and information technology.
The move was discussed at a meeting with New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), where Bangladesh underscored opportunities for joint investment, business-to-business (B2B) partnerships, and export diversification.
The Bangladesh delegation was led by Commerce Secretary Md Ataur Rahman, while NZTE was represented by Market Manager Rachel McGuckian.
Officials highlighted that current bilateral trade stands at around $450 million annually. Bangladesh imports mainly dairy and metal products from New Zealand, while its exports—worth about $147 million—are dominated by ready-made garments.
To create a more balanced trade relationship, Bangladesh called for expanding non-RMG exports, particularly pharmaceuticals, eco-friendly jute goods, leather products, sustainable textiles, and IT services.
The delegation noted that Bangladesh’s pharmaceutical sector meets international standards, offering potential to supply affordable generic medicines and vaccines to New Zealand.
Bangladesh also showcased its growing tech workforce of over 650,000 skilled professionals, proposing deeper collaboration with New Zealand firms in software, fintech, and digital services.
On the investment front, Bangladesh invited New Zealand businesses to explore opportunities in its special economic zones, particularly in dairy processing, agri-tech, renewable energy, cold-chain logistics, and advanced manufacturing.
To translate discussions into action, Bangladesh proposed direct coordination between NZTE and the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), virtual B2B meetings in key sectors, and stronger engagement with New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Both sides agreed to consider forming a bilateral Business Council and increasing participation in trade fairs, aiming to build a more balanced and mutually beneficial economic partnership.
Officials expressed optimism that combining Bangladesh’s manufacturing strength with New Zealand’s technological expertise could elevate bilateral trade and investment to new heights.
