Vietnam believes bilateral trade between the two countries will boost manifold if Bangladesh improves the logistics at its seaports in efficient handling of imports and exports, the country’s ambassador has said.
Ambassador Pham Viet Chien made the remarks during a meeting at Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industries (DCCI) on Wednesday.
He led a seven-member business delegation of Vietnam at the meeting with DCCI officials, led by its president Rizwan Rahman.
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DCCI President said Vietnam is the 18th largest import partner and 44th largest export market of Bangladesh.
He said in the fiscal year (FY) 2020-21, bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Vietnam reached US$ 739.89 million _ export worth US$61.29 million and import at US$678.6 million.
Rizwan also said that Bangladesh needs technical expertise from Vietnam to improve its industrial capacity and productivity.
He underscored the importance of direct flight between Dhaka and Hanoi to enhance trade relation.
DCCI president sought Vietnam’s support to Bangladesh to become a member of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
He also shared the experience of Vietnam in FDI promotion and export diversification.
The ambassador said Vietnam wants Bangladesh to export more to his country to reduce the trade gap.
He said several Vietnamese companies are still in operation in Bangladesh and they are doing well.
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He also requested the business community of Bangladesh to send trade delegations to Vietnam for more interactions.
Members of the visiting Vietnamese delegation also took part in the discussion.
They expressed interest in importing jute, jute goods and pharmaceutical products from Bangladesh.
During the meeting N K A Mobin, Senior Vice President, Monowar Hossain, Vice President along with the Board of Directors of DCCI, were also present.