Bangladesh, Pakistan apparel bodies discuss stronger trade ties

Bangladesh and Pakistan are exploring closer cooperation in the knitwear and textile sectors, with the two countries’ business communities discussing joint initiatives and greater engagement between manufacturers and exporters.

The discussions took place when Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Haider meet Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) President Mohammad Hatem at the BKMEA office in Dhaka on Sunday.

Several BKMEA directors were also present at the meeting.

According to the BKMEA, the discussions focused on implementing activities under a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the BKMEA and Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PHMA), as well as organising joint business-to-business (B2B) meetings.

Mohammad Hatem invited Pakistani companies to participate in the upcoming Bangladesh International Textile, Knitting and Garment Industry Exhibition, scheduled to be held in Dhaka in January 2027.

The invitation was aimed at creating greater opportunities for business-to-business engagement and strengthening supply-chain linkages between Bangladesh and Pakistan, the BKMEA said.

High Commissioner Imran Haider assured the BKMEA president of Pakistan's possible cooperation in efforts to expand bilateral trade and strengthen commercial collaboration between the two countries.

The meeting comes amid growing efforts by businesses in Bangladesh and Pakistan to deepen commercial ties, particularly in sectors linked to textiles, apparel and manufacturing.