Photo : Collected

DHAKA, June 2, 2025 (BSS) - A 22-member trade delegation from the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-Products (CFNA), led by its President Cao Derong, met with Md Anwar Hossain, Vice Chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), at a discussion session held today in the city.

The meeting focused on identifying and expanding market opportunities for agricultural products between Bangladesh and China, said a press release. 

Both sides discussed the prospects of deeper trade engagement and mutual collaboration in the agri-food sector.

During the discussion, Cao Derong highlighted four key concerns on behalf of the Chinese side that require attention from the Government of Bangladesh.

The key concerns are standard and quality compliance of agricultural products, sustainable sourcing of wild crab, quarantine and phytosanitary issues and the status and progress of the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Bangladesh and China.

In response, EPB Vice Chairman Md Anwar Hossain assured the delegation of full cooperation and policy support from the Government of Bangladesh. 

He reiterated Bangladesh's strong commitment to improving quality standards and facilitating trade.

Hossain also sought technology transfer and technical assistance from the Chinese Government, particularly in the areas of capacity building for farmers, development of cold chain logistics, and warehouse infrastructure.

The session was attended by Baby Rani Karmakar, Director General-1, EPB, Aktar Hossain Azad, Director General-2, EPB, and Kamrul Islam, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Representatives from leading agricultural exporters and trade associations also participated in the business-to-business (B2B) session, contributing valuable insights and exploring potential partnerships.

The session was moderated by Abu Mukhles Alamgir Hossain, Director (Policy), EPB.

The meeting concluded with optimism for enhanced bilateral cooperation in the agricultural trade sector and a shared commitment to addressing challenges and building a stronger partnership between Bangladesh and China.