The European Union (EU) has expressed strong interest in further expanding trade and investment cooperation with Bangladesh, stressing the importance of a more transparent and business-friendly trading environment.
The message was conveyed during a meeting between EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller and Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir held at the Secretariat in Dhaka on Tuesday, according to a press release.
During the meeting, both sides discussed ways to further deepen bilateral trade relations and explore new investment opportunities between Bangladesh and the European bloc.
Discussions focused on reducing non-tariff barriers, simplifying import and export procedures, and improving overall trade facilitation mechanisms to strengthen economic engagement.
Commerce Minister Muktadir described the European Union as one of Bangladesh’s most important trading partners. He reiterated the government’s commitment to policy and institutional reforms aimed at boosting exports, attracting foreign investment, and improving the overall ease of doing business.
He also highlighted ongoing initiatives to streamline trade processes and reduce non-tariff barriers, including the publication of the Import Policy Order on the Ministry of Commerce website for stakeholder feedback.
EU Ambassador Michael Miller appreciated Bangladesh’s efforts to improve the investment climate. He noted that while some complex trade issues may take time to resolve, sustained dialogue and cooperation could help achieve long-term solutions.
He further reaffirmed that the EU and its business community remain ready to support Bangladesh through technical assistance and constructive engagement.
Both sides expressed optimism that continued discussions and joint initiatives would help translate shared priorities into tangible progress in expanding trade and investment cooperation.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Commerce were also present at the meeting.
