An apparel factory in Bangladesh. Photo: BBN file photo
Dhaka, Bangladesh (BBN)- Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed has requested Russia to provide duty and quota free access to Bangladesh for readymade garments (RMG).
"Export would be boosted if Russia provides duty and quota free access to Bangladeshi RMG," he added.
The commerce minister made the request to the Russian Deputy Minister for Agriculture Affairs Levin Sergey Lvovich during a meeting at his ministry office, according to a press release. Levin is leading a seven-member delegation of Russia.
Mentioning Russia is a big potential market for Bangladesh, Tofail said Russia has been offering duty and quota free access to Bangladesh for 71 items but RMG, the country's main export item, is not getting this facility.
The Russian deputy minister assured the commerce minister to consider the issue.
Mr. Ahmed said Russia wants to become the host of "World Expo" in 2025 and the country has sought Bangladesh's support in this regard.
Apart from Russia, France, Japan and Azerbaijan are also interested to host the expo. The member countries will select the host through vote.
Commerce secretary Shubhashish Bose, additional secretary Munsi Safiul Huq, WTO cell director general Munir Chowdhury and additional secretary (export-2) Tapan Kanti Ghosh were present.
BBN/SSR/AD