Bangladesh's 3-point strategic proposals at meeting with MFAT in Wellington

At the meeting, Bangladesh highlighted progress in the required reforms for RCEP membership and proposed 15-20 years of tariff flexibility like ASEAN LDC members. In the context of the Russia-Ukraine war, inflation, and post-2024 student-public uprising reforms, it sought time until 2029 for LDC graduation. It was also mentioned that a bilateral FTA would play a role in expanding the market for New Zealand's dairy, agricultural, and metal products in Bangladesh's large market.

Three proposals were made for future cooperation—establishing annual trade policy consultations, forming a joint taskforce for FTA negotiations, and strengthening coordination on the LDC application at the United Nations. New Zealand reportedly responded positively to Bangladesh's invitation.