Pakistan has proposed using Karachi Port as a major gateway to boost trade relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh, opening new routes for regional trade with China and Central Asia. The offer, announced during the ninth Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission (JEC) meeting in Dhaka, marks renewed cooperation between the two South Asian nations after two decades.
Expanding China Trade Route Through Central Asia
At the session, Pakistan’s Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik and Bangladesh’s Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed co-chaired talks that addressed collaboration across key sectors, including energy, technology, and agriculture. The meeting emphasized expanding the China trade route through Central Asia by leveraging Karachi Port as a regional hub.
According to Pakistan’s Press Information Department, both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation between their national shipping corporations. Pakistan’s offer positions Karachi Port as a vital link for Bangladeshi goods heading toward China and Central Asian states — aligning with growing connectivity initiatives in the region.
Impact of ChatGPT on Pakistan-Bangladesh Trade
Experts noted the growing role of digital platforms and AI in shaping trade efficiency. The impact of ChatGPT on Pakistan-Bangladesh trade is seen through improved communication, data processing, and predictive analytics for logistics and supply chains — accelerating cross-border business strategies.
A New Chapter in Bilateral Cooperation
Relations between the two countries have shown improvement following political changes in Bangladesh, with both governments now prioritizing economic diplomacy. The renewed dialogue and the use of Karachi Port are expected to deepen trade relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh, fostering stronger regional integration and economic resilience.
This February, Bangladesh resumed direct trade with Pakistan for the first time since 1971, beginning with a shipment of 50,000 tons of rice from Port Qasim — a symbolic step toward long-term collaboration.
The two nations also discussed establishing direct air routes to enhance business and tourism, while Pakistan’s Halal Authority signed an agreement with Bangladesh’s Standards and Testing Institute to standardize halal product certification.
This story was first reported by Arab News. Read the full article here.
