The Government of Bangladesh has granted Bhutan access to 15 entry and exit points for the transit of goods, following the signing of the “Agreement on Movement of Traffic-in-Transit” in March 2023.

The Government of Bhutan, in return, has designated the following eight entry and exit points: Samdrupjongkhar, Gelephu, Phuentsholing, Samtse, Nganglam, Gomtu, Paro International Airport, and Gelephu Airport.

Bhutan's National Assembly discussed the agreement on 10 and 12 June. The agreement provides provisions regarding port facilities, infrastructure provision, services at the frontier posts, transit route designations, means of transport options, customs duties and fees, and charges, among others.

Mr. Karma Dorji, Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Employment of the Government of Bhutan, emphasized that the agreement will also provide alternative transit routes for Bhutan’s trade with third countries and complements the Preferential Trade Agreement Bhutan signed with Bangladesh in July 2022.

Meanwhile, officials noted that the success of transit trade through Bangladesh also relies on support from the Government of India, since Bhutan must pass through Indian territory to reach Bangladesh.

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Bangladesh designates 15 entry–exit points to Bhutan