Diplomatic Desk:
Khandaker Abdul Muqtadir, Minister of Commerce, Industries, and Textiles & Jute, has emphasized the importance of signing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Oman to reduce the bilateral trade deficit, boost the export of Bangladeshi products, and expand investment. He stated that Bangladesh aims to transform its long-standing friendly relations with Oman into an effective economic partnership. To achieve this, trade barriers must be removed, new investment sectors identified, and direct communication between the business communities of both countries enhanced.
The Commerce Minister made these remarks on Tuesday (October 13, 2026) during a courtesy meeting with Jamil bin Haji bin Ismail Al-Balushi, Oman’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, at the Ministry of Commerce in the Secretariat.
The Commerce Minister noted that Oman, a key member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), is a promising trade and investment partner for Bangladesh. Signing a CEPA could create new opportunities for expanding trade, increasing investment, and strengthening economic cooperation between the two nations.
During the meeting, the Omani Ambassador cited the experience of the economic partnership agreement with India and proposed concluding a similar agreement with Bangladesh. Welcoming the proposal, the Commerce Minister emphasized advancing discussions based on necessary technical preparations and a feasibility study.
Highlighting the long-standing friendly ties with Bangladesh, the Ambassador mentioned that approximately 700,000 Bangladeshis working in Oman are making significant contributions to the country’s economic development. He noted the potential to further expand trade and investment cooperation by leveraging this relationship.
The Commerce Minister emphasized the formation of a Bangladesh-Oman Joint Business Council, involving the FBCCI and the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, to foster direct communication between the business communities of both countries. Discussions were held regarding holding initial virtual meetings, followed by reciprocal visits of business delegations.
During the meeting, the Ambassador highlighted investment opportunities for Bangladeshi entrepreneurs in Oman’s Sohar, Duqm, and Salalah ports, as well as in its Special Economic Zones. Discussions were also held regarding the potential to expand the export of Bangladeshi products to the Middle East, Africa, and other international markets by leveraging the advantages offered by these regions.
Additionally, the Omani Ambassador commended the contribution of Bangladeshi female artisans to the production of Oman’s traditional ‘Kumma’ caps. He also emphasized the importance of expanding the labor market, simplifying business visa procedures, and enhancing direct communication between the relevant ministries.
Commerce Secretary Md. Ataur Rahman Khan, senior officials from the ministry, and representatives from the Omani Embassy were present at the meeting.
