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Myanmar has expressed interest in resuming border trade with Bangladesh after more than a year of suspension, raising hopes for renewed economic activity between the two neighbours.
The issue was discussed on Sunday during a meeting between Commerce Adviser Khandaker Abdul Muktadir and Myanmar Ambassador to Dhaka Kyaw Soe Moe at the Secretariat, according to a Commerce Ministry press release.
At the meeting, the ambassador said restarting the long-suspended border trade would benefit businesses and people in both countries. He suggested that trade could initially resume on a limited or temporary basis if necessary.
Both sides also discussed expanding bilateral trade, boosting imports and exports, strengthening maritime connectivity, LNG imports, and increasing mutual investment opportunities.
Border trade has faced significant disruption since parts of Myanmar’s Rakhine State—covering around 270 kilometres of the border—came under the control of the Arakan Army amid ongoing conflict. In April 2025, Myanmar’s junta effectively halted trade following disputes over alleged extortion demands on cargo vessels, causing financial losses for over a hundred importers and exporters.
Although a timber-laden trawler from Myanmar arrived at Teknaf land port on May 1 this year, normal trade has yet to resume. Currently, direct shipments from Yangon remain suspended. Limited imports of timber from Rakhine continue, while Bangladesh exports small quantities of consumer goods such as soft drinks and biscuits. Security concerns and uncertainty still hinder full-scale trade operations.
Commerce Adviser Muktadir reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to strengthening ties with neighbouring countries based on mutual respect, trust, and economic cooperation. He said trade, transport, investment, and border connectivity issues would be reviewed through inter-ministerial coordination.
He noted that geographical proximity and existing potential could significantly boost bilateral trade, adding that both countries would work together to resolve outstanding issues and make economic relations more dynamic.
The meeting also emphasised expanding trade in promising sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, rice, pharmaceuticals, and frozen foods, along with enhancing business-to-business engagement.
The issue of the safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation of Rohingya refugees sheltered in Bangladesh was also discussed. The Myanmar ambassador said verification of repatriation lists is ongoing and progress would be made when conditions permit. Bangladesh urged the creation of a conducive environment and visible progress to expedite the process.
Both sides stressed the importance of holding regular joint committee meetings and expediting the finalisation of a proposed agreement to establish direct maritime and shipping links.
Commerce Secretary Ataur Rahman Khan, Additional Secretary (FTA) Ayesha Akter, and Myanmar Embassy Counsellor Myat Lwin were also present at the meeting.
