Episode: KPN 09-08-2026

Bangladesh, Myanmar agree to expand trade, connectivity and Rohingya Repatriation efforts

Bangladesh and Myanmar have agreed to strengthen bilateral trade, improve transport and maritime connectivity and continue efforts to create conditions for the repatriation of Rohingya refugees, following talks between Bangladesh Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muqtadir and Myanmar Ambassador Kyaw Soe Moe on August 2.

The meeting, held at Bangladesh’s Ministry of Commerce, covered import-export opportunities, investment cooperation, liquefied natural gas imports, border trade and direct shipping links.

The Rohingya issue was also discussed, with Bangladesh pressing for visible progress toward an early, voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return.

Bangladesh Seeks Broader Economic Cooperation

Commerce Minister Muqtadir said Bangladesh remains committed to strengthening relations with neighbouring countries on the basis of mutual respect, trust and economic cooperation.

“Given the geographical proximity and existing potential, trade between the two countries can be increased further,” he said.

He added that trade, transport, investment and border-connectivity issues involving other government agencies would be reviewed through inter-ministerial coordination.

Myanmar Proposes Reopening Border Trade

Ambassador Kyaw Soe Moe expressed interest in expanding commercial ties and reopening the long-suspended border trade between the two countries.

He suggested that trade could initially resume on a limited or temporary basis if necessary.

Both sides discussed expanding trade in agricultural and fisheries products, rice, pharmaceuticals and frozen foods.

They also stressed the importance of stronger business-to-business engagement and direct communication between commercial communities in the two countries.

Direct Maritime Connectivity Discussed

Bangladesh and Myanmar also agreed on the importance of establishing direct maritime and shipping links.

The two sides discussed accelerating the finalisation of a related agreement, saying improved connectivity could reduce transportation costs and travel time while supporting bilateral commerce.

Regular institutional dialogue and joint committee meetings were also proposed, with Bangladesh discussed as a possible venue for the next joint meeting.

LNG Imports and Investment Cooperation on Agenda

The meeting also covered possible imports of liquefied natural gas from Myanmar and opportunities for wider investment cooperation.

Energy and transport connectivity have become increasingly important areas in Bangladesh-Myanmar relations as Dhaka looks for additional regional supply and trade options.

No final agreement or implementation timetable was announced in the source material.

Rohingya Repatriation Remains Central Issue

The repatriation of Rohingya refugees sheltering in Bangladesh remained a major part of the talks.

Ambassador Kyaw Soe Moe said Myanmar was continuing to verify lists of displaced people submitted by Bangladesh.

He said further steps could be taken once security conditions and the situation on the ground became favourable.

Bangladesh, however, emphasised that a safe environment must be created for the early, voluntary, sustainable and dignified return of the Rohingya.

Dhaka also called for effective and visible progress on repatriation rather than continued delay.

Trade Talks Unfold Alongside Political Dispute

The meeting reflects Bangladesh’s effort to maintain practical economic engagement with Myanmar despite the unresolved Rohingya crisis.

For Dhaka, improved trade, shipping and border connectivity could bring economic benefits, but Rohingya repatriation remains one of the most sensitive issues in the bilateral relationship.

Any durable return process would require not only administrative verification but also credible guarantees on security, rights and conditions inside Rakhine State.

Officials Attend Dhaka Meeting

Bangladesh Commerce Ministry Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan, Additional Secretary for FTA Ayesha Akter and Myanmar Embassy Counsellor Myat Lwin were also present.

The two sides agreed to continue regular discussions aimed at expanding trade and connectivity while keeping the Rohingya repatriation process on the bilateral agenda.

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