New Zealand Eyes Stronger Trade, Technical Partnership With Bangladesh
New Zealand has expressed interest in strengthening technical and strategic cooperation with Bangladesh to support the country’s economic and industrial development, particularly in sectors including apparel, textiles, renewable energy and manufacturing diversification.
The proposal was discussed during a meeting between David Pine and Mahmud Hasan Khan at the office of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) in Uttara.
High Commissioner Pine said New Zealand is prepared to move forward with effective partnerships if Bangladesh identifies priority sectors and presents a clear cooperation roadmap.
The discussions focused on expanding bilateral trade, exploring investment opportunities and enhancing long-term strategic cooperation between the two countries. BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan highlighted the association’s target of increasing Bangladesh’s apparel exports to $100 billion by 2035, with greater emphasis on non-traditional markets such as New Zealand.
According to BGMEA, Bangladesh currently faces a trade deficit of around $300 million with New Zealand. During FY2024-25, Bangladesh exported goods worth approximately $100 million to New Zealand, with ready-made garments accounting for nearly 94% of total exports.
Both sides agreed on the need to diversify trade beyond apparel into sectors such as textiles, footwear, pharmaceuticals and furniture, where New Zealand’s technical expertise could support Bangladesh’s industrial expansion.
The meeting also addressed sustainability in the ready-made garment sector, particularly renewable energy integration and technical collaboration for greener manufacturing practices.
Discussions further covered Bangladesh’s upcoming graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status. The BGMEA President stressed the importance of signing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with key markets and sought New Zealand’s support for a proposed three-year deferment of LDC graduation.
Enhancing the visibility of Bangladeshi apparel brands in the New Zealand market was another major focus. In response, High Commissioner Pine encouraged Bangladeshi businesses to participate in international trade fairs and exhibitions in New Zealand and assured support for future business delegations visiting the country.
