Pakistan commerce minister says Dhaka-Karachi flights likely by year-end as trade push gains momentum

Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan has said direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi are expected to begin by the end of this year, a step he believes will significantly boost trade and business links with Bangladesh.

Speaking at a meeting with members of the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) on Friday, Kamal Kahn highlighted strong interest among Pakistani businesses to expand their presence in Bangladesh.

The event, held at the World Trade Centre in Agrabad, focused on bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation.

“Joint ventures between our business communities are crucial,” the Pakistani minister said, noting that more than 10 Pakistani trade delegations have already visited Bangladesh in recent months to identify promising sectors.

“We will be sending more, and we invite Bangladeshi business leaders to come, see and participate,” Kamal Khan added, “not just in trade, but also in our national expos. In November, we have one such exhibition that could open new opportunities.”

He added, the two countries are finalising air connectivity agreements.

“Pakistani airlines will be able to fly to Bangladesh by the end of this year, and Bangladeshi carriers will fly to

Pakistan as well. This will play a vital role in connecting our people and strengthening business ties,” he said.

According to the Pakistani minister, discussions in recent days had also covered port connectivity, a possible free trade agreement, and ways to reduce the trade deficit.

He welcomed greater shipping links to transport food grains and goods between the two countries at lower cost and in less time.

Looking ahead, Kamal Khan said a Joint Working Group (JWC) agreement was expected to be signed on Aug 24, followed by meetings to outline priority sectors for investment, exports and imports. A JWC would

also oversee wider cooperation, including student exchanges, healthcare, agriculture and industry.

“We want to create a roadmap for the years ahead,” the Pakistani commerce minister added.

Commerce Advisor Sheikh Bashir Uddin told the gathering that Bangladesh was working to diversify trade links and build capacity.

“We have discussed several possibilities with Pakistan," he said, "and we expect our business leaders will work to strengthen growth through greater competitiveness.”