The World Trade Organization (WTO) has reiterated its commitment to helping Bangladesh diversify its exports and strengthen its competitiveness in global markets, primarily through full implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and strict adherence to Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary (SPS) standards.
In an online interview, WTO Deputy Director-General Xiangchen Zhang outlined the organisation’s support mechanisms for Bangladesh, one of the first Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to ratify the TFA in 2016.
“Bangladesh demonstrated its commitment through ratifying the agreement, highlighting its focus on improving trade processes,” he said.
By reducing trade costs, the TFA enables Bangladeshi exporters to access new markets more efficiently. To support effective implementation, WTO members established the Trade Facilitation Agreement Facility (TFAF), which assists developing economies, including LDCs, in accessing development partner support and targeting aid for TFA implementation needs.
“Specific support has already been provided, with the Global Alliance on Trade Facilitation and the World Bank Group offering assistance to Bangladesh for TFA implementation,” Zhang added.
Developing and LDC members can apply for TFAF grants ranging from US$30,000 to $200,000 for capacity-building measures, particularly when other development assistance is unavailable.
Regarding SPS capacity and market access, Zhang highlighted that the WTO provides tools such as the e-Ping system, Transparency Champion Trainings, and demand-driven in-country training to help developing members address implementation challenges.
Last year, WTO Members adopted a declaration on special and differential treatment provisions in SPS and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) agreements, ensuring that developing countries, including LDCs, receive timely support and can influence new standards and regulations.
The Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) also addresses SPS needs, including in Bangladesh, where it has helped build trade capacity for small-scale shrimp farmers, promoted biopesticides, strengthened seed trade, and improved SPS practices for export-oriented vegetables.
Bangladesh’s participation in the WTO-TFA and SPS agreements involves streamlining trade procedures, enhancing transparency, improving border compliance, and managing regulations to protect human, animal, and plant health.
The country is actively implementing the TFA to boost export competitiveness and has set up an SPS Information Management System as a one-stop source for exporters and importers.
