Nepal-Bangladesh CSLM underscores deepening bilateral economic ties

Kathmandu, Jan. 15

The Eighth Commerce Secretary Level Meeting (CSLM) between Nepal and Bangladesh concluded on Wednesday in Dhaka with a stress on the need for deepening bilateral economic partnership, including joint venture investments and trade.

Speaking at the two-day meeting, Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies (MoICS), Dr. Ram Prasad Ghimire, said that there is a need for enhancing bilateral trade by reducing trade-related barriers, including other duties and charges.

He also highlighted the need for close cooperation to promote collective interests at the regional and international forums in view of the impending LDC graduation, the Embassy of Nepal in Dhaka informed in a statement.   

Likewise, Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce of Bangladesh, Mahbubur Rahman, underscored the need to work together to deepen economic partnership through collaboration in trade and investment, connectivity, and tourism. He reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to upgrading transport infrastructure, simplifying customs procedures, and enhancing trade facilitation to unlock new opportunities in bilateral economic cooperation.

The meeting reviewed the progress made since the 7^th CSLM held in Kathmandu in April 2024.

Both sides agreed to convene the Trade Negotiating Committee meeting within the next three months to expedite negotiations on the PTA text, Rules of Origin and product lists, informed the embassy. The two sides also agreed to work closely on harmonising customs procedures, facilitating cross-border payments, and addressing broader non-tariff barriers to foster a more robust partnership in trade and investment.

“Taking stock of the investment linkages between the two countries, both sides stressed the importance of joint venture investments, particularly in hydropower development in Nepal and in value-chain development of goods and services. They also agreed to promote tourism cooperation, including through the development of a joint action plan and regular exchanges,” read the statement.  

According to the Embassy, Dr. Ghimire and Rahman led the delegation of their respective countries. The delegation of Nepal included officials of the MoICS, the Ministry of Finance, and the Embassy of Nepal in Dhaka, while the Bangladesh delegation comprised representatives from various ministries.

The ninth CSLM will be held in Kathmandu.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 16 January 2026.