Bhutan Keen on Free Trade Pact with Bangladesh

Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay expressed strong interest in signing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Bangladesh and linking the two countries' economic zones to boost trade and investment. He made the proposal during a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Friday.

Tobgay stated that these initiatives would elevate bilateral trade and investment to new heights. He highlighted the potential benefits of connecting Bhutan's Special Economic Zone, Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), with the Kurigram Special Economic Zone allocated for Bhutanese investors in Bangladesh.

Chief Adviser Yunus welcomed the proposals, emphasizing that improved connectivity, trade, and investment could elevate Bangladesh-Bhutan relations. He urged both nations to explore all opportunities for expanding commerce and investment.

Tobgay also discussed his government's plans to promote religious tourism, noting that Bangladeshi Buddhist monks could visit Bhutan, aiding tourism development. He expressed Bhutan's desire to harness its hydropower potential for Bangladesh and welcomed Bangladeshi investments in Bhutan's pharmaceutical sector.

Additionally, Tobgay sought Bangladesh's cooperation in establishing a dedicated fiber optic connection. The leaders also addressed the Rohingya crisis, with Tobgay confirming Bhutan's participation in the UN-organized plenary session on September 30.

Praising Yunus's leadership, Tobgay remarked that Bangladesh is in "good hands" under his stewardship. Yunus invited Tobgay to visit Bangladesh, which the Bhutanese PM accepted, suggesting a trip before the February 2026 general elections.