Bangladesh, Chile agree to explore a free trade agreement

Bangladesh and Chile have agreed in principle to explore a free trade agreement (FTA) aimed at significantly boosting bilateral trade between the two countries.

The understanding was reached during a bilateral meeting between Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and Chilean Foreign Minister Francisco Pérez Mackenna in Manila, on the sidelines of events marking the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia.

During the meeting, the two ministers highlighted the strong potential for expanding trade and discussed ways to enhance economic cooperation.

They also explored the possibility of establishing resident diplomatic missions in Dhaka and Santiago to further strengthen bilateral ties. Other issues discussed included Bangladesh's interest in importing critical minerals from Chile and increasing exports of Bangladeshi products—such as ready-made garments, pharmaceuticals, electrical goods and leather products—to the South American nation.

Dr Khalilur Rahman proposed exchanging business delegations to identify new trade and investment opportunities.

The Chilean foreign minister also expressed his interest in visiting Bangladesh in the near future.