Bangladesh’s Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Textiles Khandaker Abdul Muktadir has urged for sector-specific proposals to expand exports to Saudi Arabia. He made the call during a meeting with a delegation from the Saudi Arabia-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry at his office on Sunday. The minister said Bangladesh’s exports remain heavily dependent on the ready-made garment sector, but there are significant opportunities in pharmaceuticals, leather goods, jute products, food items, and customized apparel for Saudi consumers.

He emphasized that the government is ready to support initiatives that enhance the country’s image, export capacity, and skilled workforce. Muktadir also highlighted the importance of training and skill development for migrant workers, noting that skilled human resources can become a major national asset. The minister asked the delegation to submit specific and realistic proposals identifying areas where policy or financial support is needed.

The chamber’s president, Ashraful Haque Chowdhury, said Saudi Arabia offers major trade potential for Bangladeshi goods and services. With coordinated government support, he projected that exports to Saudi Arabia could reach one billion US dollars by 2027.