Bangladesh Strengthens Trade and Economic Cooperation with 12 CIS Countries

The Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI) has launched a significant initiative to strengthen trade, investment, and industrial cooperation between Bangladesh and the 12 member countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). The initiative aims to build long-term, mutually beneficial economic relations and open new avenues for Bangladeshi businesses in the CIS region.

One of the key figures behind this initiative is Ashok Kumar Gupta, whose active involvement has played an important role in bringing together business leaders and stakeholders from Bangladesh and CIS countries. His efforts are focused on enhancing dialogue, trust, and strategic cooperation between the two sides.

According to BCCI officials, Bangladesh sees strong trade potential with CIS countries including Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Moldova. The CIS market presents growing demand for Bangladeshi products, particularly in sectors such as ready-made garments, leather and leather goods, pharmaceuticals, agricultural products, jute goods, light engineering, and information technology services.

As part of the initiative, the Chamber plans to establish joint business councils, organize trade fairs and investment forums, and facilitate the exchange of business delegations between Bangladesh and CIS member states. Efforts are also underway to simplify export-import procedures, improve logistics connectivity, and enhance information sharing to make trade more efficient.

Speaking on the initiative, a senior BCCI representative stated that strengthening economic ties with CIS countries is strategically important for Bangladesh’s export diversification and sustainable growth. “The CIS region offers immense opportunities for Bangladeshi exporters and investors. Inshallah, this initiative will help create a strong platform for long-term cooperation,” the official said.

Ashok Kumar Gupta emphasized the importance of people-to-people and business-to-business engagement, noting that trust and consistent communication are essential for successful international trade. He expressed optimism that closer collaboration would encourage foreign direct investment, technology transfer, and joint ventures in key industrial sectors.

Economists and trade analysts believe that deeper engagement with CIS countries will help Bangladesh reduce dependence on traditional markets, increase foreign exchange earnings, and create new employment opportunities. If implemented effectively, the initiative is expected to mark a new chapter in Bangladesh’s expanding global trade relations.