BD and India can become global economic powerhouse together: Indian HC Dinesh Trivedi
In a Nutshell:
- Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi said Bangladesh and India have strengths in innovation, education, healthcare and human capital that can support stronger economic cooperation.
- ICC Bangladesh leaders called for fewer trade barriers, easier customs procedures and progress on the proposed CEPA agreement.
- The meeting discussed joint venture industries in border areas, regional supply chains, renewable energy, digital commerce and cross border connectivity.
Why it matters
Trivedi’s comments come as Bangladesh and India try to protect economic ties after the fall of the Awami League government created political uncertainty between the two neighbours. Despite those tensions, both sides continue to prioritise trade, because India remains a major source of imports, electricity cooperation and regional connectivity for Bangladesh. The discussion on border based joint industries, BBIN connectivity and cross border power trade shows that both countries are looking beyond traditional trade, but Bangladesh businesses are still pushing India to address long standing issues including export barriers, customs delays and limited market access.
What we think
Bangladesh and India are talking about becoming bigger economic partners, but, at the foundation of the relationship, there is still an imbalance. In FY2024 to 25, Bangladesh imported $9.62 billion worth of goods from India while exporting only $1.76 billion, leaving a gap of $7.86 billion. Projects like border industries, BBIN connectivity and energy cooperation could deepen ties, but they will only strengthen the partnership if India also addresses the market access issues, customs delays and trade barriers that have kept Bangladesh from benefiting more equally from this relationship.
