Bangladesh’s Ex-Diplomat Highlights Mutual Dependence with India in Trade Relations

By A Staff Reporter

Dhaka – Former Deputy High Commissioner for Bangladesh to India, Mashfee Binte Shams, has highlighted the growing interdependence between India and Bangladesh in their economic and trade ties. Speaking at an event in Dhaka, Shams remarked, “India is our largest export destination in Asia right now. We are importing around 17-18 billion dollars worth of products from India."

While acknowledging Bangladesh’s significant reliance on Indian imports, Shams countered the narrative of one-sided dependency, stating, "Sometimes it seems that we in Bangladesh are totally dependent on Indian products and imports... But India is also dependent on Bangladesh."

She elaborated on the mutual benefits of the trade relationship, emphasizing that the two countries share a symbiotic economic dynamic. “The public, business communities, and politicians need to realise it and try not to harp on the narrative of a one-sided dependence," she added.

India and Bangladesh have consistently strengthened their trade ties over the years. India imports textiles, jute products, and seafood, among other items, from Bangladesh, while exporting essential goods such as machinery, chemicals, and raw materials.