The ship, MV Yuan Xian Fa Zhong, arrived on November 13, carrying
goods like raw materials for Bangladesh’s textile and ceramic industries. Previously,
trade between the two countries relied on third-party ports in nations like
Singapore or Sri Lanka. This direct
route is expected to cut shipping costs and speed up deliveries, according to a
commerce ministry official.
Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Syed Ahmed Maroof, said
this new direct shipping link is a big step forward for trade. He said it will
make existing trade faster and open new opportunities for businesses in both
countries. The cargo ship, which started
its journey from Dubai, stopped in Karachi to pick up goods for Bangladesh
before heading to Chittagong. Officials from the Chittagong Port Authority
called it a milestone moment in regional trade.
Political analysts
believe this new trade link could impact Bangladesh’s ties with India, which
has been a key ally for decades. Professor Imtiaz Ahmed said that reviving
SAARC or forming new alliances without India’s support could be challenging.
While this direct shipping route is expected to boost trade, analysts
say Bangladesh needs to carefully manage its diplomatic ties to maintain
balance in the region.