Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir told Parliament that ongoing instability in the Middle East has already put pressure on Bangladesh’s exports and could affect remittance inflows if the situation continues. Responding to a question from ruling party MP Shamsur Rahman Shimul, he described the current Iran–Israel–US conflict as a military tension centered on Iran. The minister said the unrest has contributed to rising fuel prices, higher import, shipping, and insurance costs, and potential challenges for exports and remittances.

He noted that the Middle East is one of Bangladesh’s key trade partners, importing garments, pharmaceuticals, frozen foods, and leather goods from the country. The government is monitoring the situation and has initiated measures under the Prime Minister’s direction, including efforts to reduce logistics costs and expand markets beyond conflict-affected regions. The minister also presented recent export and trade deficit data, showing Bangladesh’s largest deficit with India.

Muktadir added that fuel price increases in Bangladesh have been moderate compared to global trends and are unlikely to significantly raise inflation, citing the limited impact of diesel price adjustments on production and transport costs.