The UK’s Trade Envoy to Bangladesh, Baroness Winterton, is visiting Dhaka this week to reinforce bilateral trade and economic cooperation, highlighting the continued benefits both countries derive from expanding ties.
Her third visit to Bangladesh comes at a pivotal time following the formation of the country’s new elected government in February, underscoring the UK’s commitment to deepening collaboration in trade, economic development, higher education, aviation and defence.
During the visit, Baroness Winterton is scheduled to hold meetings with senior ministers and government and military officials to discuss shared priorities and explore avenues for mutually beneficial growth.
She will also meet business leaders, including representatives of UK companies operating in Bangladesh, to identify opportunities for increasing bilateral trade and investment and strengthening commercial engagement.
In addition, the envoy will visit Bangladeshi exporters utilising the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), which provides duty-free access for a wide range of products, simplifies rules of origin, and encourages export diversification beyond garments.
Bangladesh is currently the largest beneficiary of the scheme, supplying goods to the UK market while supporting domestic employment and economic activity.
“The UK and Bangladesh share a strong, historic partnership, and our countries continue to benefit from expanding trade and investment ties,” Baroness Winterton said.
“I look forward to engaging with government leaders, businesses, and entrepreneurs to identify new opportunities that support economic growth and prosperity for both nations.”
British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke said the visit reflects the depth of the bilateral relationship.
“Shared growth and prosperity are at the heart of the UK–Bangladesh relationship, and Baroness Winterton’s third visit in a year reflects just how seriously we take that commitment. This visit will further solidify our partnership as Bangladesh enters an exciting new chapter,” she said.
The UK remains one of Bangladesh’s largest export destinations and a key development and investment partner. The visit is expected to further strengthen cooperation as Bangladesh seeks to transition towards a more diversified and resilient economy.
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