Dhaka- Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed on Friday said the number of commodities enjoying duty-free access will reach 10,677 from the existing 4,648 following the latest Asia-Pacific Trade Agreement (Apta) negotiation.
He came up with the information while addressing the 4th ministerial council meeting of Apta held in Bangkok, Thailand, said a PID handout.
Tofail who chaired the council said the duty-free access of products will enhance trade cooperation and create employment opportunities in Apta member countries. “As a result, Bangladesh’s export markets will be expanded while export earnings rise,” he said.
He also underscored need for implementing the framework agreement signed in 2009 on the service sector, investment and trade in the future plans alongside giving duty facilities.
Sri Lankan Commerce and Industries Minister Rishad Bathiudeen, Laos Commerce and Industrious Minister Khemmani Pholsena and State Minister of Finance of South Korea Sang Mok Choi, among others, attended the ministerial council. -UNB
