Pakistan and Bangladesh have restarted direct trade after 53 years, with the first shipment of rice departing from Port Qasim.
For the first time since 1971, Pakistan and Bangladesh have resumed direct trade, marking a significant milestone in their economic relations. A Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) vessel carrying 50,000 tonnes of rice has departed from Port Qasim, with the first batch en route to Bangladesh.
The trade agreement, finalised in early February, enables Bangladesh to import the rice through the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP). The shipment will be delivered in two phases, with the second batch of 25,000 tonnes expected in early March.
This development is seen as a major step in strengthening economic ties and reopening long-dormant trade channels. The renewed engagement follows a shift in bilateral relations after the departure of Sheikh Hasina as Bangladesh’s prime minister. High-level exchanges have since paved the way for enhanced cooperation, potentially fostering long-term trade and maritime connectivity between the two nations.
Source: India Today
