Pakistan and Bangladesh Launch Direct Shipping Service to Boost Trade
Islamabad (HRNW)- A direct shipping service has been launched between Karachi and Chittagong to strengthen trade and economic cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar informed the National Assembly in a written reply.
Dar said that after the formation of the interim government, the two countries have taken important steps to promote bilateral trade relations. The minister said that from September 29, 2024, Bangladesh has reduced trade restrictions and abolished the requirement of 100 percent inspection of Pakistani exports at its ports.
According to the written reply, the new direct shipping service has reduced cargo transit time from 23 days to just 10 days, making trade faster and more efficient. Dar also informed that the 9th Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Summit was held in Dhaka on October 27, 2024.
Under a recent agreement signed in January 2025, Pakistan exported 50,000 metric tons of rice to Bangladesh, with a total commitment of 200,000 metric tons.
More than 200 Pakistani companies participated in the Dhaka International Trade Fair and the Bangladesh Denim Expo, reflecting growing trade engagement. The foreign minister added that the two sides are working to establish direct air travel links, and Bangladesh has allowed two private Pakistani airlines to start flight operations.
