EU urges inclusion of Airbus in Biman's fleet plan

The European Union (EU) today urged Bangladesh to ensure transparency and fair competition in major procurement decisions, particularly regarding the inclusion of Airbus in Biman Bangladesh Airlines' fleet renewal plans, to maintain a level playing field for European companies.

"In this regard, I want to clearly call for the inclusion of Airbus in the fleet renewal plans of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, in line with Bangladesh's long-standing assurances of transparency and non-discrimination," EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller said.

He made the remark while speaking at the "European Dialogue on Bangladesh Aviation Growth" held at the Franco-German Embassy in Dhaka on Tuesday  which was also attended by Ambassador-designate of France Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet, British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke, German Ambassador Dr. Rüdiger Lotz. 

In his address, ambassador Miller underscored the evolving trade and investment relationship between the EU and Bangladesh, highlighting the bloc's long-standing support for the modernization and diversification of Bangladesh's economy, reports BSS.

"We have done this by providing preferential access to the EU market under the 'Everything But Arms (EBA)' initiative, offering development cooperation and expertise, and supporting both public and private investment under the EU's Global Gateway strategy," he said.

Miller noted that the EU and Bangladesh are close to concluding negotiations on an upgraded Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, adding that such frameworks reflect the EU's "role as a reliable partner for Bangladesh, helping drive export success, economic growth, and job creation”.

The envoy said that the EU remains Bangladesh's largest export market, with bilateral trade in goods reaching €22.2 billion in 2024, and encouraged Bangladesh to apply for GSP+ status for continued preferential access tied to commitments on sustainability and good governance.

He also stressed the need for transparency and reciprocity in future economic relations, saying, "We anticipate a level playing field, meaning that EU operators must not be treated less favourably than other trading partners."

Turning to aviation, the ambassador described the European aviation industry as a strategic priority for the EU's engagement in Bangladesh and echoed his fellow European envoys' views on the vast potential of Bangladesh's aviation sector, asserting that the EU "must have its place at this table."

Biman's Techno-Financial Committee is currently reviewing two proposals-- Airbus's offer of 10 A350 wide-body and four A320neo narrow-body aircraft, and Boeing's offer of 10 B787 Dreamliners and four B737 Max jets.