Business leaders say expanding the presence of local goods on global e-commerce platforms could help diversify Bangladesh’s exports beyond the ready-made garments sector.
A courtesy meeting held today (20 June) between CCCI leaders and a delegation from Alibaba. com. Photo: CCCI
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A courtesy meeting held today (20 June) between CCCI leaders and a delegation from Alibaba. com. Photo: CCCI
Leaders of the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) have called for greater inclusion of Bangladeshi products on global e-commerce platforms, including Alibaba.com, to help diversify the country’s export basket beyond the ready-made garments (RMG) sector.
The call came during a courtesy meeting between the chamber leaders and a delegation from Alibaba.com at the World Trade Centre in Chattogram today (20 June), according to a press release.
CCCI President Mohammad Amirul Haque urged Alibaba to onboard a broader range of Bangladeshi products to its global marketplace.
He said Bangladesh is entering a new phase of economic transformation, supported by policy measures proposed in the national budget for FY2026-27, including bonded warehouse facilities and free trade zones aimed at enhancing export competitiveness.
Referring to the recently approved China Specialised Economic Zone in Anwara, Chattogram, Amirul said such initiatives could emerge as important hubs for export-oriented manufacturing and services.
“Given Alibaba’s global reach, there is a strong opportunity to connect Bangladeshi producers directly with international buyers,” he said, adding that stronger business-to-business ties between Bangladesh and China are crucial for expanding bilateral trade.
He also assured Alibaba of the chamber’s full cooperation in expanding e-commerce, training and SME development activities in Bangladesh.
Alibaba’s General Manager for Pakistan and Bangladesh, Gaoya Sammer, said the company currently serves more than 50 million active buyers globally and connects over 200 million suppliers offering more than two billion products.
He said Alibaba is working to strengthen its presence in Bangladesh, particularly by promoting export diversification beyond the garment sector.
“There is significant potential in agro-products and seafood from Chattogram, which already enjoy strong demand in international markets,” he said.
Sammer added that Alibaba is also focusing on integrating SMEs and entrepreneurs into its platform through training and capacity-building programmes.
He noted that a dedicated Alibaba centre has already been established in Chattogram to provide exporters with training and information on trade diversification.
Former CCCI president Amir Humayun Mahmud Chowdhury said Bangladesh’s e-commerce sector remains at a relatively early stage and requires structured training and institutional support to grow.
He said platforms such as Alibaba could play an important role in expanding export opportunities and equipping young entrepreneurs with the skills needed to participate in digital trade.
Other chamber leaders and representatives from Alibaba also attended the meeting.
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