Bangladesh, India discuss reopening border haats to boost trade

Bangladesh and India are considering reopening closed border haats, restoring land ports to full capacity, and lifting restrictions on yarn imports through land routes as part of efforts to revive bilateral trade.

Commerce minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir discussed the proposals Monday with Indian high commissioner Dinesh Trivedi at the Secretariat.

Muktadir said bilateral trade is about $13 billion but has slowed over the past 18 months because of several obstacles.

“Trade activities have slowed somewhat due to several impediments that have emerged over the past one and a half years,” he said.

Officials also discussed creating a joint task force to deepen business cooperation and develop digital infrastructure. Muktadir said the measures could create new investment opportunities, expand business ties, and accelerate trade between Bangladesh and India.