The Governments of Bangladesh and Nepal held their Eighth Commerce Secretary Level Meeting in Dhaka, Bangladesh from 13-14 January 2026, to review the progress of bilateral trade and strengthen economic cooperation. Dr. Ram Prasad Ghimire, Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies headed the delegation from Nepal. Mr. Mahbubur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, headed the delegation from Bangladesh. 

Dr. Ghimire emphasized the need to enhance bilateral trade by reducing trade-related barriers and stressed close cooperation at regional and international forums, particularly as both countries prepare to graduate from Least Developed Country status.

​​Mr. Rahman highlighted the need for deeper economic partnership through enhanced collaboration in trade, investment, connectivity, and tourism. He reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to upgrading transport infrastructure, simplifying customs procedures, and strengthening trade facilitation measures to unlock new opportunities in bilateral economic cooperation.

Key Agreements include the following

• Convene Trade Negotiating Committee meeting within three months to expedite negotiations on the Preferential Trade Agreement, including text, Rules of Origin, and product lists
• Work closely on harmonizing customs procedures and facilitating cross-border payments
• Address non-tariff barriers to foster stronger trade and investment partnership
• Promote joint venture investments, particularly in hydropower development in Nepal and value-chain development of goods and services
• Develop port infrastructure, expand rail connectivity, and ease customs procedures and ensure effective implementation of transit facilities
• Enhance tourism cooperation through development of a joint action plan and regular exchanges

The Ninth Commerce Secretary Level Meeting will be held in Kathmandu, Nepal, at a mutually convenient date

Related links

Eighth Nepal–Bangladesh Commerce Secretary Level Meeting Held in Dhaka 
Bangladesh-Nepal commerce secy meeting focuses on PTA to boost trade ties 
Bangladesh, Nepal agree to fast-track PTA, boost trade and connectivity