Bangladesh’s export to Canada grew by 14.53 per cent in 2019 to 1.97 billion Canadian dollar year-on-year mainly due to the trade privilege provided by the latter.
The country fetched CAN$1.72 billion in 2018 and CAN$1.65 billion the year before through export, of which more than 90 per cent were apparel items, according to the data provided by the Canada Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bangladesh (CanCham).
Besides, the bilateral trade between the two countries reached CAN$3.2 billion, registering a 36 per cent year-on-year growth in 2019, the CanCham statement issued Tuesday said.
Canada’s export to Bangladesh was CAN$1.24 billion in 2019, CAN$642 milion in 2018 and CAN$718 million in 2017.
Canada became a good export destination for Bangladesh as the country has been enjoying duty-free access to the Canadian market, namely garment products, leather, textiles, seafood and pharmaceuticals since 2004.
Agriculture is the cornerstone of the trade relationship between the two countries.
Not only Bangladesh relies on Canadian suppliers for high quality Canadian grains, seeds and pulses, but also depends on its nutritional technology and potash fertiliser for food security and the health of Bangladeshis most recently, the statement added.
The statement further said that Canada needs Bangladesh’s supports in the upcoming election of the UN Security Council.
Against the backdrop of Covid-19 pandemic, the United Nations plans to hold elections in New York in June to fill the rational seats on the UN Security Council for 2021-22. Canada, Ireland and Norway are vying for a seat, it added.
