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WT/TPR/W/164  
8 May 2019  
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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
* In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  
BANGLADESH  
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 3 AND 5 APRIL 2019  
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Mrs Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later 
than 22 May 2019 . 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
BANGLADESH  
PROJET DE COMPTE REN DU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 3 ET 5 AVRIL 2019  
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Mme Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 22 mai 2019  au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
BANGLADESH  
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 3 Y 5 DE ABRIL DE 201 9 
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría (Sr a. Barbara Blanquart: 
barbara.blanquart@wto.org , o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 22 de mayo de 2019  las 
correcciones fácticas que deseen introducir en sus propias declaracion es. 
 
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
 
BANGLADESH  
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEET ING 
Chairperson: H.E. Mr. Manuel A.J. Teehankee (Philippines)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMA RKS BY THE CHAIRPERS ON ................................ .......................  3 
2  OPENING STATEMENT  BY THE REPRESENTATI VE OF BANGLADESH  ..............................  5 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  8 
4  STATE MENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  11 
5  REPLIES BY THE RE PRESENTATIVE OF BANG LADESH AND ADDITIONA L  
COMMENTS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  34 
6  CONCLUDING REMARK S BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  43 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Bangladesh are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/385/Add.1 and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The fifth Trade Policy Review of Bangladesh was held on 3 and 5 April 2019. The Chairperson, 
H.E. Mr. Manuel Teehankee  (Philippines), welcomed the delegation of Bangladesh, headed by 
H.E. Mr. Tipu Munshi, Minister of Commerce; the rest of the delegation; and the discussant, 
H.E. Ambassador Stephen De Boer (Canada).  
1.2.  The Chairperson reminded Members that the United Nations Industrial Development 
Organization (UNIDO) was participating as an observer in this TPR.  
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of trade policy reviews and the main elements of 
procedures for the meeting. The report by Bangladesh was contained in document W T/TPR/G/385 
and that of the WTO Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/385.  
1.4.  Questions by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: Russian 
Federation; Japan; China; European Union; United States; Hong Kong, China; Iceland; Ukraine;  and 
Singapore. The following delegations submitted written questions after the deadline: Thailand; 
Australia; Chinese Taipei; Canada; India; Turkey; and Indonesia.  
1.5.  During the previous TPR meeting in 2012, Members had praised Bangladesh on its impressive 
economic performance despite a daunting number of natural catastrophes and setbacks, as well as 
on its commendable results in poverty alleviation and being on its way to achieve many of the MDG 
targets by 2015 to become a middle -income country by 2021. For the current Review, Members 
sought, through their advanced questions, further information regarding, among others, measures 
to improve the business environment through the National Industrial Policy, the Export Policy 2018 -
21, Bangladesh Vision 2021, and t he Export Diversification Strategy. In addition, Members were also 
interested in national skill -development training, and employment -generation programmes. In their 
advanced written questions, Members also asked about measures taken and time -frames involve d 
for the implementation of policies to encourage private sector participation in the economy.  
1.6.  Members also recalled that, at the time of the previous Review, they had commended 
Bangladesh for its efforts to create a conducive legal and regulatory framewor k to facilitate growth 
and development in many areas, whereas at the same time it had been encouraged to improve its 
investment environment. As an LDC, Bangladesh had taken advantage of the opportunities offered 
by the multilateral trading system, includin g duty free and quota free (DFQF) market access. Its 
involvement in efforts to further strengthen regional cooperation on trade and investment among 
South Asian countries had been acknowledged. Since its previous Review, Bangladesh took initiatives 
to impr ove its investment regime. As indicated by the advanced written questions, Members wanted 
to learn more about its strategies for tackling the implications of LDC graduation, developments in 
RTAs, WTO notification plans and further FDI liberalization.  
1.7.  With regards to trade policy, at the time of the previous Review, Bangladesh had been 
commended on the concrete steps taken to facilitate trade by streamlining and modernizing its 
customs regime. Some Members had expressed concerns about the significant gap be tween bound 
and applied tariffs, and the increasing use of supplementary duties, charges and protective levies. 
For this Review, in their advance written questions, some Members expressed interest in learning 
more about the new Customs Act and the time -frame for its implementation, measures taken or 
being taken to improve and streamline customs procedures, and disputes pertaining to customs 
valuation and their resolution. Members also asked about measures encouraging further tariff 
liberalization, as well a s reducing or removing other taxes and duties levied on imports. They also 
wanted to know about Bangladesh's strategy with regard to export promotion and diversification.  
1.8.  Noting the increasing role services play in the development of Bangladesh's economy,  at the 
time of the previous Review, some Members had encouraged Bangladesh to take steps to replicate 
its telecoms opening benefits in other crucial areas such as energy, transport and financial services. 
In the context of this Review, questions were also  posed in a number of areas including FDI into the 
energy sector, electricity grid capacity allocation, trade in petroleum products, adequate 
management of the financial system, reduction of non -performing loans, bank, securities and 
insurance company requ irements, the requirement of sea -borne trade by Bangladesh -flag vessels, 
foreign -flag vessels waivers, and port facilities and operations.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  1.9.  The Chairperson drew Members' attention to additional areas where they were interested in 
having more clarity. These included: taxation, government procurement and intellectual property 
rights.  
1.10.   This meeting was a good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of interest 
to them and of systemic importance to the multilateral trading system. The Chairpe rson was looking 
forward to a fruitful exchange among Members and Bangladesh.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE OF BANGLADESH (H.E. MR. TIPU 
MUNSHI)  
2.1.  Let me first take the privilege to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to you all for 
being present at the fifth Trade Policy Review of Bangladesh. I also thank the WTO Secretariat, in 
particular, the Director of the Trade Policies Review Division and his team for their excellent 
contribution in preparation of the report on Bangladesh. We are par ticularly grateful to Ambassador 
De Boer for agreeing to be the discussant.  
2.2.  The review period witnessed high economic growth over 6% despite various national and global 
challenges including influx of more than one million Rohingyas in Bangladesh. Although,  we 
addressed the problems on humanitarian consideration, but it has been posing enormous challenges 
on our economy, environment, social development and security.  
2.3.  It may be recalled that the present Government under the leadership of the Honourable Prime 
Minister Sheikh Hasina adopted the Vision 2021, the year of 50th anniversary of independence. The 
Vision 2021 sets concrete development targets for Bangladesh with a view to transforming the 
socio-economic environment to a middle -income country. We already  witnessed this transition in 
2015. We also met all the three criteria for graduation from LDC in 2018. We expect that prudent 
economic policy will lead us to graduate in 2024.  
2.4.  The remarkable success of Bangladesh in attaining the important targets of the  MDGs inspired 
the Government to be in the forefront of implementing the SDGs. Accordingly, the Government has 
adopted the 7th Five -Year Plan for realizing the vision of a poverty -free Bangladesh with inclusive 
development. During the review period, the in cidence and depth of poverty in Bangladesh decreased 
significantly; resulting in decline of headcount poverty rate from 31.5% to 21.8% and the hard -core 
poverty from 24% to 11.3%.  
2.5.  During the review period, Government formulated Export Policy 2015 -2018 and  Export Policy 
2018-21. The major focuses of the policies are to promote and facilitate export, improve quality of 
the exportable items, use environment friendly technologies and produce high value added and 
labour -intensive products. Special programmes ha ve been designed to boost up export of priority 
sectors with export potential. As a result, the export of Bangladesh registered a significant increase 
from USD 24.30 billion to USD 36.66 billion during the review period, while import stood at 
USD 58.86 bil lion in fiscal year 2017/18 increasing from USD 22.5 billion in fiscal year 2011/12.  
2.6.  The Government of Bangladesh formulated the Import Policy Order 2015 -18 with minimal 
changes from the previous policy for maintaining the continuity and predictability of  the policy 
measures. Tariff structure remains more or less unchanged during the review period. Tariffs on 
import of capital machinery have been kept at minimum level in order to support industrial 
development.  
2.7.  One of the major challenges for the Governmen t is to mobilize internal resources. The 
Government has made concerted efforts that resulted in increase of tax -GDP ratio from 9.12% in 
fiscal year 2011/12 to 10.9% in fiscal year 2017/18. Most notable achievement was the gradual 
reduction of dependence on  import duty with corresponding increase of domestic value added tax 
and income tax revenue, which accounted for 53% of total tax -revenue in fiscal year 2017/18.  
2.8.  The Government has undertaken major reforms of the Customs Administration to facilitate 
trade  and implement commitments under the TFA and the WCO Revised Kyoto Convention. It has 
introduced ASYCUDA World in September 2013 and formulated a new Customs Act which is now 
waiting for the approval of the Parliament. The Government has been implementing a four -year 
National Single Window (NSW) project since January 2017 to bring all export -import related services 
under the umbrella and reduce the cost of doing business.  
2.9.  The monetary policy of the country has been formulated along with the fiscal measures to 
support the higher economic growth, maintaining macroeconomic stability and keeping inflation at 
tolerable rate. As a result of prudent monetary and fiscal policies, inflation came down to 5.8% in 
fiscal year 2017/18 from 7.4% in fiscal year 2013/14. Fo reign exchange reserve stood at 
USD 32.02  billion at the end of December 2018.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  2.10.   With a target to achieve GDP growth at 10% by 2021, National Industrial Policy 2016 
envisages to increase the contribution of industrial sector from present 30% to 35% of GDP an d 
employment generation from present 16% to 25% by 2021. The key determinants of National 
Industrial Policy 2016 are SME development, structural transformation, diversification of the 
economic base, accelerated economic growth, employment generation, women  entrepreneurship 
development, increasing income level and development of livelihood of the people.  
2.11.   In order to increase domestic and foreign investment, the Government of Bangladesh 
formulated investment friendly policies, acts and laws. Board of Investm ent and Privatization 
Commission were merged into the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA). One Stop 
Service (OSS) Act, 2018 has been enacted for ensuring delivery of 31 investment related services 
from a single point.  
2.12.   Bangladesh Economic Zo ne Authority has taken an initiative to promote investment and 
create employment of around 10 million people by establishing 100 Economic Zones throughout the 
country in the next 15 years. Approval has already been granted to establish 79 economic zones. 
Beside this, comprehensive plans and programmes have been undertaken in Annual Development 
Programmes to develop infrastructure, rapid electrification, energy diversification, development of 
communication system and information technology.  
2.13.   In order to  facilitate the development of major infrastructure and services, the Government 
has given special emphasis on public -private partnership. A public -private partnership office has 
been established to support the concerned ministries for identification, deve lopment and tendering 
of PPP projects of international standards.  
2.14.   Since 2010, the Government has positioned ICT as the centre for achieving the goal of digital 
Bangladesh. As a result, mobile subscriptions adoption and mobile broadband penetration increase d 
respectively to 88.1% and 71% and the overall internet usage reached to 91.2 million users. The 
Government has also established 5,275 Digital Centers throughout the country for creating market 
for the marginalized or rural people.  
2.15.   One of the major challe nges of the Government is to create employment opportunity for about 
two million people, who are added to the job market of Bangladesh every year. To this end, the 
country has formulated the National Skill Development Policy 2011 and a National Skill Devel opment 
Council (NSDC) headed by the Honourable Prime Minister has been formed for coordinating activities 
on skill development, training and employment generation programmes. As a result, unemployment 
rate has decreased from 4.5% to 4.2% during the review period.  
2.16.   Bangladesh is a strong proponent of multilateral trading system and remains active in all WTO 
activities. As the LDC coordinator, Bangladesh successfully negotiated landmark decision on 
extension of exemption from the TRIPs obligation for the LDCs  for pharmaceutical products until 
January 2033. Bangladesh also led the negotiations for decisions on preferential rules of origin for 
the LDCs and operation & extension of LDCs services waiver during the 10th WTO Ministerial 
Conference. During the review  period, the major focus of Bangladesh was the conclusion of the Doha 
Round and the full implementation of the WTO decisions in favour of LDCs. Bangladesh actively 
participated in the discussions on development, implementation of TRIPs Article 66.2 and rev iew of 
Annex VII of SCM Agreement for graduated LDCs. Bangladesh was also active in the discussion on 
work programme on e -commerce for ensuring increased participation of SMEs. Bangladesh also 
ratified a Trade Facilitation Agreement and notified all catego ries on 21 February 2018.  
2.17.   With the support from EIF, the Government has completed DTIS in 2015 with an Action Matrix. 
The Government has launched Tier -1 project and has been conducting regular training programmes, 
workshops and symposiums to enhance capaci ty of the trade officials and academics.  
2.18.   Bangladesh is a party to five regional trade agreements. It has also signed 33 bilateral 
Investment Cooperation agreements for promotion and protection of foreign investment. Besides, it 
has signed agreements on av oidance of double taxation with 33 countries. It also signed joint 
economic and trade cooperation with 44 countries.  
2.19.   The Government of Bangladesh is committed to continue its endeavours for achieving higher 
GDP growth, eliminating poverty and reducing ineq uality. The people of Bangladesh, as well as the WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  Government embraced the graduation from LDC status in 2024. However, keeping pace of economic 
growth will be major challenge in the next decade. We deeply appreciate the support of our 
development partners i n our efforts to accelerate growth and development and hope that they will 
continue their support for smooth graduation.  
2.20.   One of the major challenges of graduation will be the loss of DFQF market access which has 
significant contribution in promoting our e xport and creating employment opportunity for the poor, 
especially for the women. Addressing the issues of strengthening the supply side capacities, 
diversification of export products and markets and transformation from factor -driven to 
productivity -driven  production practices are critically important in attaining the SDGs and ensuring 
smooth graduation. To this end, Bangladesh direly needs harnessing the opportunities of digital 
economy, IT -enabled service economy and the new knowledge ecosystems in the up coming days.  
2.21.   In this context, I call upon WTO Members to address trade -related challenges of graduated 
LDCs and come up with a strategy to support them for sustainable graduation.  
2.22.   I would like to thank the Members for their interest and engagement. We be lieve this will help 
us understand the perspectives of the Members and guide us to develop better trade policy regime. 
My delegation and I look forward to hearing your views and comments. I thank you all.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  
3.1.  Chers collègues, j'ac cueille personnellement le chef de la délégation du Bengladesh, l'Honorable 
Ministre du commerce, Monsieur Tipu Munshi, et mon collègue l'Ambassadeur Shameem Ahsan, ainsi 
que son équipe basée ici à Genève.  
3.2.  Je remercie le Secrétariat de l'OMC pour son rapp ort complet de haut niveau, ainsi que le 
Bengladesh pour son rapport qui forme ensemble la base de mes commentaires aujourd'hui.  
3.3.  A tremendous amount of work goes into these reports and that deserves acknowledgement. I 
would also like to thank those Members  that have submitted written questions, and Bangladesh for 
its responses – the question and answer process is a crucial component of any TPR and ensures a 
robust Review.  
3.4.  At the outset, please let me recall that I am speaking entirely in my personal capacit y in my 
role of discussant for this Review.  
3.5.  I thank Bangladesh for the opportunity to act as the discussant for its Trade Policy Review. 
During the period under review, Bangladesh has been a constructive participant in the work of this 
Organization. For i nstance, Bangladesh worked with the WTO Membership in the role of LDC 
coordinator for several years, including during the 2015 -2016 period when it played an instrumental 
role in securing a decision on the extension of the exemption for LDCs from the TRIPS obligation for 
pharmaceutical products until January 2033. Bangladesh has also been an active participant in 
discussions regarding preferential rules of origins for LDCs, the services waiver for LDCs, the 
effective implementation of the decision on duty fr ee and quota free market access for LDC products, 
as well as the work on the programme on e -commerce.  
3.6.  Additionally, Bangladesh has ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement on 21 February 2018, 
hence becoming the 94th Member to ratify this milestone agreem ent. 
3.7.  I personally commend Bangladesh's involvement in the work of the WTO, especially in today's 
context where participation of all WTO Members is essential to modernize and reform the 
Organization to face modern challenges. Bangladesh's commitment to the multilateral rules -based 
system is welcomed. I am of the sincere view that the participation of every WTO Member is required 
for the Organization to move forward.  
3.8.  Bangladesh's decision to opt for the alternative timelines for its Trade Policy Review 
demons trates that Bangladesh supports transparency at the WTO. By opting for the alternative 
timeline, Bangladesh allowed me and the Members to review the replies to the written questions in 
advance of this meeting, and thus to contribute to a more meaningful ex ercise.  
3.9.  My remarks today will begin with high -level observations on the economic situation and overall 
trade policy of Bangladesh. I will then continue with the key trade -related challenges that Members 
raised in their questions.  
3.10.   The interest and importa nce that WTO Members attribute to Bangladesh's trade policies and 
practices is demonstrated by the fact that over 120 questions were submitted by 13 Members for 
this exercise.  
3.11.   I want to highlight that Bangladesh's efforts to modernize its trade regime and  follow through 
on its plan for economic growth, including by taking into account several of the Members' comments 
made during its last TPR.  
3.12.   Bangladesh's level of development is increasing as the improvements in several social 
indicators demonstrate. Pove rty levels are declining, and inflation is stable. Bangladesh can be proud 
of having reached the World Bank's threshold for lower -middle -income country status in 2015 and 
for being on course to graduate from least -developed country status in 2024.  
3.13.   I note B angladesh's call to the Membership to continue to apply preferential market access, 
to provide capacity building, and to apply TRIPS' obligations exemptions particularly with regard to 
pharmaceutical products as it graduates from LDC.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  3.14.   The Secretariat report notes that Bangladesh has achieved sustained growth with real GDP 
increasing at an average of 6.8% annually since the last TPR in 2012. This is consistent with 
Bangladesh's GDP growth in the years reviewed in the context of Bangladesh's last TPR. Th e 
Secretariat report indicates that strong domestic demand has contributed to that sustained growth.  
3.15.   Bangladesh's plan Vision 2021 focusses on export -led growth. Bangladesh's efforts in that 
respect enabled the diversification of its economy away from the agriculture sector during the period 
under review. While Bangladesh's agricultural sector continues to contribute to the economy at a 
rate of 13.7% of its GDP in 2017/2018, since its last TPR, Bangladesh moved towards a more 
manufacturing -based economy.  
3.16.   Its main exports, as much as 90% for 2017/2018, are in the textile and ready -made garment 
sectors, while its key imports are inputs for that industry. Foreign direct investments in Bangladesh 
are concentrated in the energy; garment manufacturing; financial;  and telecommunication sectors.  
3.17.   Tariffs remain an important source of revenue and accounted for 11.7% of tax revenue in 
2016/17. While Bangladesh applied tariffs remained relatively stable since their last TPR, their 
binding coverage remains low at 19.3% of tariff lines bound.  
3.18.   I note that, during the period under review, Bangladesh's average tariff protection for 
agriculture products increased, and still today are higher than the overall applied MFN average. 
Export restrictions and domestic support measur es are also in place in the agriculture sector. 
Furthermore, Bangladesh, the world's largest inland fishing nation, maintains high average MFN 
tariff protection for fish products.  
3.19.   Bangladesh put in place additional standards since 2012, and now more than half are aligned 
with international standards, compared to just over 40% in 2012. This is an improvement that is 
worth noting.  
3.20.   Since 2012, Bangladesh undertook initiatives with regard to trade facilitation. On import 
controls, the scope of the list of con trolled goods was not modified. The export procedures also 
remained the same. Bangladesh can benefit from continued work to further streamline customs 
procedures.  
3.21.   A standstill is still in place for privatization in Bangladesh, thus the influence of the sta te 
remained largely unchanged during the period under review. State involvement continues in 
agriculture, fisheries, food, textiles, and in the energy, construction, financial, transport and 
telecommunication services sectors. State -owned enterprises actio ns maintained their influence over 
domestic prices, including in the essential commodities and energy sectors. I encourage Bangladesh 
to reconsider the standstill on privatization and to find ways to enable additional involvement of the 
private sector in i ts economy.  
3.22.   Bangladesh has updated its intellectual property regime through passing or amending 
legislation on geographical indications and trademarks. The Secretariat also notes a slight 
improvement with respect to enforcement. However, the Secretariat re port states that effective 
enforcement remains a challenge due to institutional and other constraints.  
3.23.   Bangladesh's economy has been supported by growth in the banking and insurance sectors, 
including microfinance institutions which are key players in rur al financial markets. The 
telecommunications sector, especially mobile telephone and internet -user penetration, kept 
expanding during the period under review.  
3.24.   On the other hand, the Secretariat report notes that Bangladesh faces challenges in terms of 
connectivity with regard to maritime, air, and land transportation services sectors. Bangladesh's 
state-owned airline continues to dominate the air transport market, while the two main trade cargo 
ports are state -owned as well.  
3.25.   Bangladesh's report provides fo r a series of initiatives to address the challenges it faces in the 
transportation services sector. The report also indicates that foreign employment and remittance 
from its nationals contribute to its economic development, reduce poverty, unemployment, an d 
strengthen its foreign exchange reserves.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  3.26.   I note Bangladesh's commitment to support its micro, small and medium -sized enterprises 
via industrial loans. Bangladesh's report points to MSMEs as a potential means to reduce 
unemployment and indicates that it has instructed its commercial banks to provide a minimum of 
22% of commercial loans to that sector, with the objective of raising that number to 25% by 2021. 
The report also refers to the important role of women in the economy and to Bangladesh's policies 
to reduce gender discrimination, which include setting up a ceiling of interest rate for women 
entrepreneurs to encourage them to engage in SMEs.  
3.27.   Bangladesh's involvement in regional trade is worth mentioning. For instance, Bangladesh is 
participating in t he Asia Pacific Trade Agreement, the South Asian Association for Regional 
Cooperation (SAARC) Preferential Trading Arrangement (SAPTA) and the South Asia Free Trade 
Agreement (SAFTA).  
3.28.   I also note that Bangladesh plans on establishing over 100 special econ omic zones over the 
next 15 years and is working on improving its economy's resilience through the design of an LDC 
graduation strategy for 2024.  
3.29.   The advanced questions submitted by the Members address a wide array of trade policies and 
practices, includi ng with regard to the status of Bangladesh's notifications, intellectual property, the 
investment environment, the banking and insurance services sectors, as well as Bangladesh's plans 
with regard to its tariff scheme and its strategy to manage modificatio ns to its preferential access 
after it graduates from the LDC stage.  
3.30.   In terms of Bangladesh's notifications' record, Members have noticed certain gaps. I would 
invite Bangladesh to make use of the Secretariat's resources that are available to support its efforts 
in meeting its notification requirements.  
3.31.   Members questioned Bangladesh on its plans to further open its economy to the private 
sector, in a context where substantial segments of Bangladesh's economy are dominated by state -
owned or controlled enter prises.  
3.32.   Bangladesh's investment restrictions, including with regard to the protection of 17 sectors, 
drew the attention of the Membership which is interested in hearing from Bangladesh whether it has 
plans to remove or reduce certain of the restrictions i n these sectors.  
3.33.   Members also asked Bangladesh questions pertaining to its plans to diversify its economy.  
3.34.   The modifications of Bangladesh's custom policies during the period under review are of 
interest to the Members and further information on those has  been requested by the Membership.  
3.35.   Additionally, Members questioned Bangladesh regarding its intentions in terms of eventually 
joining the Government Procurement Agreement as an observer.  
3.36.   In conclusion, I would like to once again commend Bangladesh for it s strong performance 
over the review period and encourage building on the progress made, through a continued sound 
reform agenda, good governance, and stable political environment, as these will be instrumental in 
ensuring Bangladesh's long -term growth pro spects.  
3.37.   Bangladesh faces several challenges as it approaches graduation from LDC. I am confident 
that the authorities are taking these challenges seriously, and I encourage Bangladesh to continue 
in that direction. I wish Bangladesh a successful review an d I look forward to listening to the 
Members' statements. Thank you.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S 
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.1.  The Russian Federation follows with great interest the economic performance of Bangladesh. 
During the period under review, its real GDP was growing by an average annual rate of 6.8 %, 
reaching nearly 7,9 % in 2018. We congratulate the Government of Bangladesh for reaching the 
World Bank's threshold for lower middle -income country status in 2015 and wish success with 
achieving the goal of gradu ation from least developed country (LDC) status by 2024.  
4.2.  We are pleased to note that economic cooperation between Moscow and Dhaka is 
strengthening. On 1 March 2017, our countries signed the Agreement on Establishment of the 
Intergovernmental Commission on  Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation. The aim 
of the Commission is to develop broad -based cooperation between Russia and Bangladesh in various 
spheres. It will facilitate the diversification of bilateral trade, economic, scientific and te chnical ties 
between the business communities of the two countries and assist in removing barriers to bilateral 
trade.  
4.3.  According to our data, in 2017 the total trade turnover between our countries increased from 
USD 1.44 billion to USD 1.64 billion. More t han 90% of the Bangladeshi import to Russia consist of 
ready -made garments, seafood, and leather items. Russia exports raw materials for textile industry, 
machinery, fertilizers, cereals including high -quality milling wheat. It is important to note that ou r 
bilateral trade is generally balanced — the export from Russia is almost equal to the import from 
Bangladesh (USD 763 million and USD 882 million, respectively).  
4.4.  "Rosatom" is constructing the first nuclear power plant in Bangladesh, "Rooppur" in Pabna, 
which will help the country to attain energy security. The project is also aimed at stabilizing electricity 
prices and reducing Dhaka's dependence on high cost power generation based on imported fuel. 
Other major Russian companies, "Gazprom" and "Inter RAO -Engineering", are working on projects 
to further develop the country's gas and energy sectors by building gas wells and modernizing power 
plants. Cooperation in IT industry is ongoing with "Kaspersky Lab" providing cyber security solutions 
to homes, small  businesses and enterprises.  
4.5.  During this TPR, the Russian delegation has addressed a written question to Bangladesh 
regarding its SPS notifications. We thank the delegation of Bangladesh for a comprehensive answer.  
4.6.   To conclude, we look forward to continue  working with Dhaka in order to expand our trade 
and investment ties for mutual benefit. We wish the delegation of Bangladesh a successful Trade 
Policy Review.  
CHINA  
4.7.  We are pleased to see that Bangladesh has achieved robust economic growth with an average 
annual rate of 6.8% and a significant decline in poverty levels since the last TPR. This is attributed 
to sound macroeconomic policies and continued reforms. We are encouraged by the ambition of 
Bangladesh in the Vision 2021 and Vision 2041 and believe tha t Bangladesh would achieve 
remarkable socio -economic development with the efforts of its government and people. China 
continues to be available to assist its efforts.  
4.8.  We commend Bangladesh's strong support and active participation in the multilateral tradi ng 
system, especially its advocation of the special and differential treatment in the WTO. Likewise, 
China believes that, as an integral part of the WTO rules, special and differential treatment in favour 
of all developing members is indispensable for the multilateral trading system.  
4.9.  China and Bangladesh have been maintaining a close relationship since the beginning of our 
diplomatic ties in 1975. And recent years have seen a rapid and smooth progress in bilateral 
economic and trade cooperation. China is cu rrently Bangladesh's largest source of imports in the 
world, and Bangladesh is China's third largest trading partner in South Asia. In 2018, the bilateral 
trade in goods reached USD 18.7 billion, increased by 16.8% compared with last year. We are glad 
to have Bangladesh participated in the first China International Import Expo last year and would WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  kindly invite Bangladesh to continue participating in the future's China International Import Expos 
which we believe will help increase China's imports from Bangla desh.  
4.10.   As members of Asia Pacific Trade Agreement, both China and Bangladesh implemented the 
tariff concessions of the Fourth Round of negotiation outcome from 1st July 2018. Except general 
concessions on 2191 tariff lines, China offered special concessions  to Bangladesh on 181 items, with 
a considerable number of items enjoying a preference margin of 100%. Besides, a joint feasibility 
study on a potential FTA between China and Bangladesh is under way. We hope the study could 
draw a positive conclusion at an  early date.  
4.11.   China has provided economic and technical assistance to Bangladesh within its capacity to 
support Bangladesh's economic and social development over a long period of time. Bangladesh is 
China's third largest construction market in South Asia. China will further promote cooperation with 
Bangladesh, especially through the Belt and Road Initiative.  
4.12.   To better understand Bangladesh's tax policies, we have raised some questions. We 
appreciate the replies provided by Bangladesh and have some further q uestions to be submitted 
later today.  
4.13.   To conclude, we wish this Review a complete success.  
JAPAN  
4.14.   Supported by its strong domestic demand and abundant low -cost labour, Bangladesh has 
achieved significant economic growth, which corresponds to an annual growt h rate of 6.8% on 
average since its last TPR in 2012. Consequently, Bangladesh achieved lower -middle -income country 
status in 2015 and aims at graduating from LDC status in 2024. We truly respect these 
achievements.  
4.15.   At the same time, in order to sustain i ts growth even after its expected graduation from LDC 
status in 2024, Bangladesh will have to engage further in ongoing reforms, which would enhance 
the diversification and competitiveness of its industries as well as improve its business environment 
and fiscal conditions.  
4.16.   In this regard, we appreciate Bangladesh's efforts in implementing the regulatory and 
institutional framework for competition policy as well as in strengthening its legislation regarding 
IPR protection.  
4.17.   Also, we appreciate Bangladesh's ac hievements in the area of trade facilitation including the 
ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in 2016.  
4.18.   There are, however, several areas that can be improved. We appreciate Bangladesh's 
commitment to the multilateral trading system. Hav ing said that, Bangladesh has achieved only a 
limited regular notifications record in the WTO, while being a long -standing beneficiary of trade -
related technical assistance. In order to foster a predictable and transparent business environment, 
we encourag e Bangladesh to further strengthen its efforts in the area of notifications. Also, 
Bangladesh is not a member of the GPA. Even though Bangladesh does not have a high level of fiscal 
deficits, we believe it is important for the country to consider joining t he GPA in order to achieve 
robust fiscal conditions through transparent government procurement procedures. As one of the 
most prominent LDC Members, Bangladesh is expected to set a good example in the WTO for other 
LDCs.  
4.19.   We also encourage Bangladesh to en gage more actively in the joint statement initiatives 
agreed in MC11 in Buenos Aires. In particular, we believe that the digital economy is a key driver 
for the economic growth of LDCs, and we recognize that Bangladesh has also set digitalization as an 
important policy agenda. Therefore, in order to unleash the full potential of digitalization in 
Bangladesh, we encourage Bangladesh to participate in the Joint Statement Initiative on Electronic 
Commerce in the WTO.  
4.20.   In conclusion, we are sure that Bangladesh will be well placed to continue pursuing open, 
transparent and non -discriminatory markets by observing its commitments to the WTO. We wish WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  Bangladesh a successful and productive TPR and look forward to hearing of further progress 
regarding its trade and in vestment policies at its next TPR.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.21.   The EU commends Bangladesh's strong commitment to the multilateral trading system, as 
reflected by its active participation and prominent voice for LDCs in the WTO, and we would like to 
highlight some of the positive developments that have taken place during this period under review.  
4.22.   First, Bangladesh's overall sound macroeconomic performance has contributed to growth, 
stable inflation and moderate public debt. Since 2012, economic growth has averaged 6.8%  per 
year. The service sector remains the main contributor to GDP, accounting for nearly 56% (2017 
data), with increased activities in particular in the bank, insurance and telecommunication sectors. 
While the industry sector increased to 30%, mainly consi sting of the labour -intensive textile and 
garment manufacturing, the agriculture sector decreased but continued to play an important role in 
supporting economic growth (nearly 14%), also accounting for a large portion of employment, rural 
incomes, and a so urce for export expansion.  
4.23.   Second, the EU congratulates Bangladesh's success in reaching the World Bank's threshold 
for lower -middle -income country status in 2015 and Bangladesh should be able to graduate from 
LDC status in 2024. Growth has resulted in a decline in poverty levels, which fell to 21.8% in 2018 
(23.1% in 2017). The EU supports Bangladesh's efforts in reducing poverty and improving overall 
living standards.  
4.24.   Third, the EU welcomes Bangladesh's ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement in  2016 
and the notification of its Category A, B and C commitments under this Agreement. With a view to 
enhancing transparency and predictability, the EU urges Bangladesh to meet their other notification 
requirements under the WTO. In this context, we note that Bangladesh recently formed a Committee 
to facilitate timely submissions of trade data which is a step in the right direction.  
4.25.   With regard to government procurement, we notice continued reforms by Bangladesh 
including the implementation of an electroni c registration of all procurements. The EU would invite 
Bangladesh to apply for joining the WTO Plurilateral Agreement on Government Procurement. We 
also call on Bangladesh to consider joining the initiatives on electronic commerce – importance of 
which wa s underlined by the minister -, investment facilitation and MSMEs as well as the declaration 
on women and trade.  
4.26.   With reference to our bilateral relationship, the EU is Bangladesh's main trading partner, 
accounting for about 22% of Bangladesh's total trade  in goods and amounting to €18 billion and 
giving rise to a trade surplus for Bangladesh.   
4.27.   The EU is also its main export destination and remains highly concentrated on textiles. The 
2001 Framework Cooperation Agreement is the basis for bilateral cooperat ion between Bangladesh 
and the EU, which provides broad scope for co -operation, extending to trade and economic 
development, human rights, good governance and the environment. Being a LDC, Bangladesh 
benefits from duty -free and quota -free access to the EU market under our "Everything But Arms" 
(EBA) preferential arrangement. Following the mid -term evaluation of the Generalised Scheme of 
Preferences (GSP) Regulation, the EU has enhanced its engagement with Bangladesh and is now 
monitoring the situation in re spect of certain principles of international conventions.  
4.28.   In 2013, the EU took the initiative of launching a Sustainability Compact which aims to foster 
improvements in labour rights and factory safety in the garment industry of Bangladesh. Together 
with B angladesh, the work is pursued by the EU, Canada, the US and the International Labour 
Organization (ILO) notably with a view to address areas of remaining serious shortcomings such as 
freedom of association and occupational safety and health.  
4.29.   Bangladesh an d the EU, together with its Member States, are also important partners in 
development cooperation. In line with Bangladesh's development plan, cooperation focuses mainly 
on support to democratic governance, food and nutrition security and sustainable devel opment, and 
education and human development. Our multi -annual indicative programme for Bangladesh allocates 
€655 million in 2014 -2020.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  4.30.   The EU would also like to raise a few challenges, some related to the questions we addressed 
earlier.  
4.31.   In general, we shou ld remember that Bangladesh is highly vulnerable country to climate 
change and natural disasters, and the emphasis on mitigation efforts is therefore growing, for 
example by promoting adaptation to climate change of agro -food systems of Bangladesh.   
4.32.   Regar ding the investment environment, we encourage Bangladesh to undertake further 
actions to attract foreign investments and to improve private participation in public infrastructure 
projects. We note that some improvements have already been undertaken by the Bangladesh 
Investment Development Authority (BIDA) with its One -Stop Shop (OSS) attempts to bring the 
different regulatory requirements of business into one place.  
4.33.   We also encourage Bangladesh to continue its reforms to improve the business climate and 
to strengthen its attempts to combat fraud and corruption.  
4.34.   On behalf of the EU, I look forward to a constructive exchange of views during this Trade 
Policy Review and wish Bangladesh's delegation the best of success.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.35.   The United States recognize s that acceding to the WTO can pose particular challenges for 
LDCs, but Bangladesh continues to meet those challenges and use WTO rules as an opportunity to 
enhance its economic climate. In fact, Bangladesh will soon be graduating from the group of LDCs 
and has set its sights on fast becoming a middle -income country. The United States commends 
Bangladesh's commitment to bring its trade and investment regime into compliance with WTO rules.  
4.36.   We have engaged the Government of Bangladesh bilaterally on trade is sues through our Trade 
and Investment Cooperation Forum Agreement. We were delighted to host the Secretaries of 
Commerce and Labor in Washington for the last council meeting in September of 2018. We hope 
that through today's review we can continue to make progress on some of the systemic issues that 
we have been discussing bilaterally for some time, as well as continue to facilitate solutions to 
concerns that sometimes arise in our trade relations.  
4.37.   While we already have a significant economic relationship – our two -way trade totalled 
approximately USD 8.2 billion in 2018 –noting that currently Bangladesh enjoys a considerable 
surplus in our two -way trade – over USD 3.9 billion annually. This is largely due to apparel exports, 
for which we are Bangladesh's la rgest single country buyer. However, American companies are not 
just buying from Bangladesh; they are also the largest foreign investors in Bangladesh. And as 
Bangladesh continues its progress towards graduating from LDC status to eventually becoming a 
middle-income country, we are confident that American companies will continue this partnership. As 
Bangladesh increases development of infrastructure, energy, transportation, and the digital 
economy, American companies and technologies will be able to contrib ute to Bangladesh's growth 
as long as Bangladesh continues to address the identified laws or policies that in one way or another 
inhibit trade or investment flows. Some challenges our companies and investors face include the 
lack of regulatory guidelines f or pharmaceuticals and medical devices, the lack of transparent 
government procurement processes, and localization requirements for data servers. Prompt 
notification by Bangladesh of regulations impacting international businesses will also go a long way 
toward creating a more transparent business environment.   
4.38.   During the period of review, Bangladesh announced policies to expand trade, investment, and 
economic growth, including, among others, the Import Policy Order 2015 –2018, Drug Policy 2016, 
and continue d progress on Digital Bangladesh. The United States would also like to commend 
Bangladesh for ratifying the Trade Facilitation Agreement. Through U.S. Government assistance 
programs, we will continue to work on supporting legal, regulatory, and policy refo rms needed to 
enable the Government of Bangladesh to meet its World Trade Organization commitments, including 
easing border controls and strengthening compliance.  
4.39.   Finally, on the labour front, after the tragedies in Rana Plaza and Tazreen, we saw effective  
public -private partnerships, with organizations such as the Alliance and the Accord, undertake work 
with the Government of Bangladesh on worker safety and worker rights issues. We hope that these WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  productive partnerships within the ready -made garment (RMG)  and other sectors will once again 
flourish to provide mutual benefits. Progress on these matters will remain critical to enhancing 
productive trade relationships globally.  
4.40.   The United States offers our questions and comments on Bangladesh's trade regime i n the 
spirit of constructive dialogue and thank the Bangladesh delegation for their consideration and 
response. In particular, we encourage Bangladesh to increase its efforts towards regulatory 
transparency and to make effective use of WTO notification pro cedures.  
4.41.   In closing, the United States appreciates this opportunity to participate in this discussion and 
looks forward to engaging with the delegation from Bangladesh. We support Bangladesh's 
aspirations toward greater economic success and integration.  
HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.42.   Hong Kong, China (HKC) and Bangladesh enjoy cordial trade relationships. Our bilateral trade 
amounted to USD 2 billion in 2018, representing a robust growth of 20% over 2017. Bangladesh 
maintains an open policy which encourages foreign inve stment, and HKC is one of the largest 
investors in the country. We look forward to fostering closer and more vibrant trade and economic 
relations with Bangladesh.  
4.43.   On trade policies, we would like to, first of all, congratulate Bangladesh for its achievemen ts 
in trade facilitation since the last review. Such achievements include the Authorised Economic 
Operator system, as well as measures to make customs formalities and procedures simpler, more 
transparent and more efficient. A national single window for tra ders is also envisaged by end 2021. 
We hope Bangladesh would continue its efforts in enhancing cross -border trade.   
4.44.   On tariff, we commend Bangladesh for maintaining only ad valorem rates for almost all its 
tariff lines. However, we notice that there is a huge overall gap of 147.2% between the simple 
averages of bound rates and applied rates. Noting the lack of predictability that this gap could lead 
to, we encourage Bangladesh to find ways to provide more certainty to importers and traders.  
4.45.   Services sector  is the largest contributor to Bangladesh's GDP, accounting for over 50% in 
2017-18. We commend Bangladesh for implementing measures to facilitate the trade, including 
relaxed rules that enable foreign investors to use local currency to invest in local sec urities 
companies through the purchase of corporate shares. Given the importance of the services sector, 
we encourage Bangladesh to further liberalise its trade in services, which would fuel economic growth 
and development.  
4.46.   The competition policy regulatory and institutional framework was put in place during the 
review period. The legislation covers all areas, except for practices related to those goods and 
services which are controlled by the Government in the interest of national security and are  not open 
to the private sector. We noted that state -owned enterprises continue to influence domestic pricing 
in certain areas such as essential commodities and energy. We look forward to the widening of the 
scope of this legal framework, leading to a more  competitive trading and business environment.  
4.47.   We commend Bangladesh for attaching great importance to trade as an engine for growth 
and development. The active participation of Bangladesh in the WTO and its strong support for the 
Multilateral Trading Syst em (MTS) also highlight the relevance and benefits of the system to 
developing and least developed countries. We encourage Bangladesh to continue its open policy and 
efforts in integrating into the MTS. Finally, I would like to thank Bangladesh for its rep lies to our 
written questions. HKC wishes Bangladesh a very fruitful Trade Policy Review.  
ICELAND  
4.48.   As the WTO report notes there have been welcoming developments since the last review of 
Bangladesh in 2012. The economy has continued to diversify and grow, w hich has resulted in a 
decline in poverty, and Bangladesh is on course to graduate from LDC status in five years. There 
have been reforms in areas such as taxation, improving the business environment and labour policy. 
Bangladesh has ratified the Trade Fac ilitation Agreement and undertaken some initiatives to facilitate 
trade. These are all welcome and encouraging developments.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  4.49.   Boosting female participation in the labour force is in the report recognised as one of the keys 
for increasing potential growth in  Bangladesh. Constraints are identified, such as lack of access to 
finance, poor infrastructure and disparities in wages. The report points out efforts that have helped 
to keep girls in school and develop the necessary skill -sets to promote better job oppo rtunities for 
women and reducing the gender gap.  
4.50.   On the occasion of the 11th Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires more than 120 WTO 
members and observers launched a joint declaration on trade women's economic empowerment that 
aims inter alia at sharing b est practices and working together here at the WTO to remove barriers 
for women's economic empowerment and increase their participation in trade. This declaration is 
the fruit of the Trade Impact Working Group that was established under the auspices of the  
International Gender Champions — Geneva, that is now co -chaired by Botswana, Iceland and the 
ITC. 
4.51.   The trade policy review provides an excellent opportunity to share best practices in this field, 
such as the experience of Bangladesh in promoting female par ticipation in the labour force 
mentioned earlier. Iceland submitted advance written questions on the participation of women in 
the economy of Bangladesh and on initiatives that are being undertaken to make economic growth 
more inclusive. We wish to thank B angladesh for the responses to our written questions. We will 
review the answers thoroughly and request clarifications as necessary during the course of this TPR. 
The answers are very useful as we implement the joint declaration and gather best practices w hich 
we will present at MC12.  
4.52.   Iceland appreciates Bangladesh's active engagement in WTO and their continued support for 
the multilateral trading system. We wish the delegation of Bangladesh every success for their fifth 
Trade Policy Review.  
UKRAINE  
4.53.   Banglad esh is the promising partner for Ukraine in terms of significant potential in trade and 
economic cooperation and remains in the focus of Ukraine's attention in the region. Trade turnover 
between Ukraine and Bangladesh was valued at USD 312 million in 2018 (Ukraine's export to 
Bangladesh = USD 225 million while import = USD 87 million). Ukraine and Bangladesh gain from 
trade in goods that includes comprehensive list of items: agricultural and food industry products, 
machinery, equipment, textiles, chemicals,  various industrial goods, etc.  
4.54.   Trade in services between our countries covers tourism, transport, business services, 
computer and information services, repair and maintenance, processing services.  
4.55.   Within this TPR exercise Ukraine has raised a number of im portant questions on a range of 
the following issues of specific interest:  
• Export policy;  
• Implications of Bangladesh's possible graduation from LDC status;  
• Trade laws and regulations;  
• Customs valuation;  
• Banking and finance services;  
• Import approval and res trictions;  
• Value added tax (VAT);  
•  Production incentives and National Industrial Policy, etc.  
4.56.   We would like to express our gratitude for the responses, which we are reviewing carefully.  
4.57.   In conclusion, I would like to express our appreciation to the delega tion of Bangladesh and to 
the team of the Mission of Bangladesh in Geneva for their hard work in preparing for this TPR.  
4.58.   Ukraine wishes the delegation of Bangladesh successful Trade Policy Review and looks forward 
to further enhancing of our bilateral econ omic and trade relations.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  SINGAPORE  
4.59.   Bangladesh and Singapore enjoy warm and substantial economic ties. Our total trade in goods 
amounted to around USD 3.7 billion in 2018, which represented a 14.9% increase from the previous 
year. Singapore was Bangladesh's fourth largest source of imports in 2018, and Singapore has the 
fifth largest stock of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bangladesh.  
4.60.   We are hence heartened by Bangladesh's commitment to addressing structural impediments 
and maintaining an inv estor-friendly investment regime during the review period. We also welcome 
your continued support for the rules -based multilateral trading system, which included the 
ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in 2016. In this context, we urge B angladesh 
to fulfil its notification obligations because Members' timely and complete notifications are crucial to 
the WTO's monitoring function and contribute to the predictability and transparency of the 
international trading system.  
4.61.   Looking ahead, we be lieve that there are opportunities to further strengthen the economic 
relationship between our two countries.  
4.62.   One, we note with interest Bangladesh's plans to increase electricity generation capacity by 
2021 and congratulate Bangladesh on achieving the hi ghest power generation capacity in its history 
in 2018. A significant portion of Singapore's FDI in Bangladesh is concentrated in the power sector, 
and we will continue to support your efforts in this crucial area of infrastructure development.  
4.63.   Two, we wel come Bangladesh's efforts to establish more economic zones throughout the 
country and enhance the incentives to foreign investors. This will encourage more Singapore 
companies to participate in Bangladesh's economic growth and support the diversification o f its 
industry.  
4.64.   Three, we support Bangladesh's initiatives to improve trade facilitation, particularly the 
implementation of a National Single Window. We are confident that these initiatives will result in 
greater efficiency and transparency, thereby enhan cing the potential to further grow the bilateral 
trade in goods between our two countries.  
4.65.   We wish Bangladesh every success in its fifth Trade Policy Review.  
AUSTRALIA  
4.66.   During the review period, Bangladesh has achieved impressive economic growth, averaging  
over six per cent in the last decade. Bangladesh has also made significant progress in social 
development, including successfully reducing the number of people experiencing extreme poverty 
across the country.  
4.67.   Australia's trade and investment relationship  with Bangladesh has grown exponentially, with 
over USD 2.5 billion in Australian dollars in two -way trade in 2017 -18. Significant trade in the 
ready -made garment industry and agri -business are the cornerstone markets of our two -way trade 
relationship.  
4.68.   Australia is actively exploring ways to strengthen the bilateral trade and economic 
relationship, including through initiatives such as the inaugural Australia -Bangladesh Trade 
Conference, scheduled for 30 April to 2 May in Sydney to highlight trade and inve stment 
opportunities across the bilateral relationship. There is scope to develop greater trade diversification 
across the trade relationship, with opportunities in the energy, agriculture, textiles, pharmaceutical, 
education and professional services sect ors.  
4.69.   Australia is working constructively with Bangladesh in global and regional forums in which we 
are both members, including the Indian Ocean Rim Association, to advance our shared objectives. 
Importantly, we have a mutual interest in an open multilater al trading system and a strong and 
effective World Trade Organization and United Nations.  
4.70.   As articulated in the Australian Government's Foreign Policy White Paper, Australia 
encourages growth -promoting trade and investment integration across the Indo -Pacific. Strong WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  sustainable growth will deliver opportunities for private sector business investment in Bangladesh 
and across the region. To that end, Australia has supported Bangladesh through several aid for trade 
initiatives, including the Enhanced Integrate d Framework and the ILO's Better Work Program.  
4.71.   Reform is vital for Bangladesh to continue to achieve economic development, poverty 
reduction, improved competitiveness and greater investment. There are various measures, as noted 
in the review documents, whi ch Bangladesh is taking to reform its banking, capital markets and 
investment sectors.  
4.72.   Bangladesh is moving towards graduation from Least Developed Country status, expected in 
2024. As a result, Bangladesh will likely to face challenges with regard to pref erential market access, 
and access to concessional loans among others. Information on Bangladesh's approach to address 
these, and other post -graduation challenges would be welcome.  
4.73.   Regarding tariff reform, it is notable that Bangladesh's tariff reductions have been minimal 
since the time of its last review in 2011/12, and the average MFN applied tariff -rate has barely 
changed. It is concerning to see an increase in tariff protection for agricultural products over this 
same period, rising from 17.8% to 18.1% . 
4.74.   As Bangladesh's average tariff -rate remain high and has actually increased on agricultural 
products, are there any plans to encourage tariff liberalisation in the future?  
4.75.   Compliance with WTO notification requirements is another area for improvement, give n 
Bangladesh's limited notification record in the WTO Committees. Regular notification by WTO 
Members is important to ensure transparency and maintain confidence in WTO mechanisms for 
addressing Member's trade concerns.  
4.76.   For this review, we have submitted questions covering specific aspects of Bangladesh's trade 
and economic policy. We are reviewing Bangladesh's responses to these questions.  
4.77.   We wish Bangladesh a successful Trade Policy Review.  
THE SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITO RY OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
4.78.   As mentioned in both reports (by the Secretariat and the Government), Bangladesh's GDP 
grew by an impressive 6.7% on average over the review period 2012 to 2018. At the same time, 
the usual economic indices showed rem arkable improvements on a range of dimensions, such as 
public investment, per -capita income, external trade, electricity generation and infrastructure. These 
eye-catching performances are evidence of the fact that Bangladesh's economic development is on 
the right track.  
4.79.   The various initiatives, policies and incentives undertaken by Bangladesh to promote trade 
opportunities, stimulate export diversification, improve the regulatory framework, and to facilitate 
foreign investment, all seem to be having the des ired effects. We must also commend Bangladesh 
on its efforts to further liberalize its trade and investment regime.  
4.80.   As far as our bilateral economic relationship with Bangladesh is concerned, the value of trade 
between us reached a total of USD 1.23 billion in 2018, up by 14% on the previous year. Our main 
exports are petrochemical products, machinery, and materials used in the making of textiles. 
Bangladesh continues to be an important supply -chain partner for our textile industry.  
4.81.   Our investment in Bangladesh up to now totals some USD 300 million in 46 different projects 
(mainly in the fields of footwear, garments, electronics, and furniture manufacturing), which in turn 
contributes to Bangladesh's export value and generates new employment opportunit ies as well.  
4.82.   I would like to turn now to highlight a few areas where we wish to draw the attention from 
the Bangladesh Government.  
4.83.   Firstly, our business people continue to express serious concerns over the efficiency and 
transparency of the Bangladesh gove rnment's administrative procedures and infrastructure 
constraints. The report mentions that an on -line system has now been introduced that enables WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  companies to register within 4 hours, which should shorten the start -up time by about 30 days. We 
welcome thi s development. Bearing in mind that the ease of doing business is a key parameter in 
attracting foreign investment, we encourage Bangladesh to undertake further reforms to address 
the issues that foreign companies still have to face.  
4.84.   Secondly, in 2016, my Government launched its "New South -Bound Policy", aiming to 
establish a new and comprehensive relationship with Southeast and south Asia countries, of which 
Bangladesh is an important one. Having sent several trade and investment missions to Bangladesh 
over the past two years to build awareness of the market among our business community, the 
response from our industries has been quite positive. Many are now encouraged to explore trade 
cooperation and seek new investment opportunities. We call on Bangladesh to now take steps to 
promote greater bilateral engagement through their business chambers, and to help boost the 
business confidence environment on both sides.  
4.85.   Thirdly, as Bangladesh is due to graduate from the group of LDCs by 2024, we wish to have 
some a dvance understanding of the policy strategies it will adopt to address the post -graduation 
challenges, such as the diversification of its export products, and its S&D differential treatment 
relating to WTO benefits. In order to sustain the current growth m omentum and to ensure its 
industrial competitiveness, a well -crafted strategy for transition is definitely required. This is not just 
an important agenda item for Bangladesh alone; it has serious implications for other trading partners 
as well.  
4.86.   Fourthly, a nd last, while Bangladesh clearly remains committed to the multilateral trading 
system, it unfortunately has a record of limited regular notification. We would urge Bangladesh, 
therefore, to improve its notification as a matter of urgency. It is, after all , an integral principle of 
the WTO and a key mechanism for ensuring transparency among Members.  
4.87.   Finally, I must say that we very much look forward to further constructive discussion with 
Bangladesh on advancing our future bilateral relationship.  
4.88.   Our sincer e thanks to Bangladesh for its full engagement in this TPR.  
THAILAND  
4.89.   Thailand and Bangladesh have long enjoyed excellent bilateral relations. Total trade between 
the two countries has increased by 46% since the last trade policy review, from USD 848 millio n in 
2012 to USD 1,241 million in 2018.  
4.90.   Bangladesh is considered as one of our important sources of raw materials and intermediate 
products for our textiles and garments as well as processed food industries. We are pleased to 
highlight that Bangladesh is t he second largest trading partner of Thailand in South Asia while 
Thailand is the fourth largest trading partner of Bangladesh in ASEAN.  
4.91.   Thailand welcomes Bangladesh's strong economic performance since the last Trade Policy 
Review in 2012. Bangladesh's re al GDP has grown at an average annual rate of approximately 6.8% 
and reached nearly 7.9% in 2017/18.  
4.92.   It is highly commendable that sound macroeconomic policies have contributed to stable 
inflation, moderate public debt, and greater resilience to external shocks. As a result, Bangladesh 
successfully achieved the World Bank's threshold for lower -middle -income country status in 2015 
and is on course to graduate from least developed country status in 2024.  
4.93.   Thailand welcomes Bangladesh's consistent efforts in i mproving its regulatory framework, 
taxation and business environment and promoting trade facilitation. In addition, efforts to formulate 
a comprehensive trade policy, including production diversification, increased competitiveness, and 
trade agreement util ization and expansion, are ongoing. We believe that these efforts will contribute 
to sustainable and resilient economic growth.  
4.94.   Thailand commends Bangladesh's active participation in the multilateral trading system, 
including through its role as a Coordina tor of the LDC group in the WTO for the fourth time in 2015. 
During the review period, Bangladesh ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement. However, WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  Bangladesh continued to have a limited regular notifications record. This is an area that needs 
technical assistance to improve compliance under WTO agreements.  
4.95.   In this review, Thailand submitted questions covering specific aspects of trade and economic 
policies of Bangladesh, including export diversification, regional and preferential agreements and 
price reg ulation. Thailand would like to thank Bangladesh for its timely response to our questions 
and will study them in detail with great interest.  
4.96.   In closing, Thailand wishes Bangladesh a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
CANADA  
4.97.   Since 2017, Bangladesh has rec eived over 700,000 Rohingya refugees and has endured one 
of the fastest growing refugee crises. Canada continues to stand beside Bangladesh during this 
tumultuous time, providing more than USD 68 million for the provision of life -saving and gender -
responsi ve humanitarian assistance in Myanmar and Bangladesh to meet the needs of refugees, 
displaced people, and the communities who are hosting them. Canada is also providing development 
assistance for health and education projects for the Rohingya through the W orld Bank.  
4.98.   In addition to the remarkable undertaking and generosity of hosting refugees, Bangladesh 
has experienced significant economic growth with a GDP growth rate exceeding 6% year -on-year 
for the past decade. Bangladesh is Asia's fastest growing econo my and emerging consumer market. 
This growth is driven by the ready -made garment (RMG) sector, as Bangladesh continues to diversify 
from an agrarian to a manufacturing -based economy. Canada is pleased to be supporting 
Bangladesh in its work to reform its R MG sector via bilateral development assistance.  
4.99.   The Government of Bangladesh has outlined an ambitious long -term development plan with 
"Vision 41" that aims for Bangladesh to become a Developed Country by 2041. In parallel, the 
"Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100"  is a long -term strategy for sustainable water management to prevent 
floods, soil erosion and managing rivers and waste. These initiatives will bring great benefits to the 
people of Bangladesh.  
4.100.   The Government of Bangladesh has also committed to a structura l transformation of 
Bangladesh's economy, with a focus on overhauling its energy and power networks, as well as 
identifying infrastructure as one of its key priorities. These efforts will lay the foundation for future 
economic growth and pave the way for f urther investment attraction.  
4.101.   We would like to take this opportunity to highlight some areas in particular where Bangladesh 
is making progress in the implementation of policies that promote growth and economic 
development.  
4.102.   First, we encourage Bangladesh to  continue its export strategy under Export Policy 2018 -
21, which focuses on raising the country's export earnings to USD 60 billion by 2021. Key objectives 
to support this include: improving the quality of products by upgrading testing facilities to global  
standards; enhancing the involvement of women in export -oriented industries; increasing the 
investment of services sectors; and, modernizing export trade by utilizing e -commerce and e -
governance.  
4.103.   Second, we welcome implementation of the One -Stop Shop (OS S) Act. The OSS Act, 
scheduled for full implementation by July 2019, aims to house the different regulatory requirements 
of business under one roof. This approach will help to minimize administrative burden for businesses 
and individuals.  
4.104.   Finally, we woul d like to congratulate Bangladesh on being a proponent of the WTO and the 
multilateral trading system. This includes being the LDC coordinator for the fourth time in 2015 and 
joining 40 Members in May 2018 with a strong statement in support of the WTO and encouraging 
Members to from refrain from taking protectionist measures and to avoid escalation of trade 
tensions.  
4.105.   Along with all of  the progress already made, there remain areas which would benefit from 
further attention on the part of Bangladesh's Government.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  4.106.   We encourage Bangladesh to take efforts to ensure its WTO notifications are submitted in a 
timely manner and, if necessary, t o reach out to the WTO Secretariat to receive technical assistance.  
4.107.   Taking substantive measures to combat corruption and further reforms to reduce the cost 
of starting a business, increasing the protection of minority investors and facilitate trade across 
borders would attract additional foreign investment.  
4.108.   Finally, addressing issues of unfair labour practices, and worker safety would help safeguard 
the economic growth driven by the RMG sector.  
4.109.   In closing, we wish Bangladesh a productive and useful fifth T rade Policy Review, and we 
look forward to a constructive exchange of views this week.  
INDIA  
4.110.   During the period under review since 2012, the GDP of Bangladesh has registered a strong 
average annual growth rate of 6.8%, reaching an impressive level of 7.9% i n 2017 -18. The rate of 
economic growth, prudent macro -economic measures and trade policy have resulted in the 
remarkable improvement in the overall economic indices particularly in infrastructure, energy, ICT 
and have encouraged investments. Poverty rates have shown a marked decline and Bangladesh, 
considering the strong growth and development, became a lower middle -income country in 2015. It 
is, therefore, not surprising that it is expected to graduate from its LDC status in 2024.  
4.111.   Today, as an LDC, Bangla desh continues to face various challenges including need for 
diversifying its economy, reducing over reliance on the garment sector and addressing infrastructural 
challenges and socio -economic indicators. However, we applaud and commend the Government of 
Bangladesh for the various reform measures that it has adopted in its trade and investment related 
policies to promote growth and attract investment based on its Vision 2021.  
4.112.   India and Bangladesh share close, warm and friendly ties which are based on histor ical and 
cultural linkages, common sacrifices and shared values. Regular, high -level political exchanges and 
broad -based institutional mechanisms continue to strengthen and deepen relations between the two 
countries.  
4.113.   India has a long border with Banglades h with several trading points and transport linkages. 
Our trade relationship is unique with multi -modal connectivity through a network of roads, railways, 
rivers and ports. Trade and investment ties are an important pillar of our bilateral relations with 
regular exchange of business delegations and a comprehensive framework including trade 
agreements. The bilateral trade between the two countries stood at USD 9.95 billion in 2017 -18. 
Indian investments are also growing in Bangladesh in various sectors inclu ding telecommunication, 
automobiles and pharmaceuticals.  
4.114.   India has always been a supporter of a special dispensation for LDCs and provides access 
for more than 98.2% tariff lines as duty free or preferential.  Moreover, under the South Asia Free 
Trade Agr eement (SAFTA), India has provided zero duty access to LDC Members, including 
Bangladesh, for all lines except 25 lines related to alcohol and tobacco. Initiatives for promoting 
trade and investment are also ongoing under the Bay of Bengal Initiative for M ulti-Sectoral Technical 
and Economic Cooperation Framework (BIMSTEC).  
4.115.   We have a vibrant development partnership and cooperation with Bangladesh including 
concessional lines of credit amounting to USD 8 billion extended by India for projects in areas of 
infrastructure, roads, railways, health, medicare and education. An important area of cooperation is 
power and energy with grid connectivity to augment export of power from India for Bangladesh's 
power requirements, setting up of the 1320 MW Maitree coal fir ed power thermal plant at Rampal 
and cooperation for exploring oil and gas resources in the waters of Bangladesh. For capacity building 
and improving human resources, India is extending 200 scholarships to students and also offers 
around 800 slots every ye ar for professionals of Bangladesh for training programmes in various 
institutions in India under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme.   
4.116.   We have raised some questions for the TPR and the responses received are being reviewed 
by our auth orities. However, I wish to highlight a few issues.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  • Both countries are exploring a new bilateral Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement 
for which a joint study has already been commissioned. An early conclusion of the agreement 
would give further boo st to our trade and economic ties.  
• Bangladesh does not allow imports of all products through each of the 56 Land Customs 
Stations (LCSs), situated along India -Bangladesh border. Only specific products are allowed 
through each LCS by Bangladesh.  India has  requested that all the port restrictions be removed 
as soon as possible so that trade can grow and help in the development of North -East part of 
India and the remote areas of Bangladesh.  
• Petrapole -Benapole is the most important border trading point betwe en India and Bangladesh. 
Certain infrastructural and procedural improvements need to be made on the Bangladesh side. 
Optimal utilisation of warehouses and enhancement of cargo handling facilities will facilitate 
timely clearance of more than 500 -600 trucks  that cross over daily. This will also help reduce 
the constant congestion at Petrapole on the Indian side.  
• India and Bangladesh have vast potential to collaborate in the area of developing regional 
value chains including under the framework of SAFTA in ar eas like textiles and garments for 
mutual benefit. We need to work together in this area with focus and determination.  
4.117.   To conclude, the strong development and strategic partnership between India and 
Bangladesh is growing by leaps and bounds. India stands r eady to work together with Bangladesh 
to harness the vast potential of our trade and investment ties for mutual benefit. We wish the 
delegation of Bangladesh a productive and successful TPR and will continue to work closely with the 
Bangladesh delegation i n Geneva, led by their dynamic Ambassador, Shamim Ehsan.  
TURKEY  
4.118.   The detailed reports prepared for this review and today's presentations have highlighted the 
economic potential of Bangladesh. We also observe that, during the review period, Bangladesh 
witnes sed high economic growth, while achieving notable improvement in macroeconomic indicators.  
4.119.   As a result of this progress, Bangladesh reached the World Bank's threshold for lower -
middle -income country status in 2015 as previous speakers also highlighted. We are of the view that 
those achievements are valuable for Bangladesh in continuing with stable growth and also are of 
vital significance providing numerous opportunities for the economies in its region.  
4.120.   We note with satisfaction that during the review perio d, Bangladesh has undertaken various 
reforms in areas such as taxation; improving the business environment and enabling private 
participation in public infrastructure projects. The effective coordinated policies also appear to 
become successful to help pov erty reduction in the country.  
4.121.   We also witness that Bangladesh recently has developed various incentives to augment 
investment climate in the country. In this respect, we appreciate the establishment of the 
Bangladesh Investment Development Authority duri ng the review period, which will further improve 
the investment environment in the country. At this point, we would like to state that Bangladesh 
also has become an important destination and manufacturing hub for Turkish investors in recent 
years, thanks t o its improving investment environment.  
4.122.   Although Bangladesh's short -term growth outlook remains robust and risks are broadly 
balanced as indicated in several reports, some challenges still exist such as a sustained increase in 
non-performing loans, weak go vernance in the banking sector.  
4.123.   Moreover, as Secretariat report underlines, we witness that manufacturing, with a share of 
19% in GDP, is heavily dependent on labour -intensive sectors such as textiles and we believe that 
there is a strong need to craft pol icies to ensure diversification of the manufacturing activities for 
sustaining economic growth. In this regard, we appreciate that through Vision 2021 and the related 
7th Five Year Plan, Bangladesh already recognizes the merits of export -led growth by expa nding the 
volume, diversifying the export base, moving up the value chain and exploring new markets. We are 
of the belief that those policies are going to be key drivers for promotion of sustainable and inclusive 
industrial growth and infrastructural trans formation.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  4.124.   Regarding Turkey's bilateral trade with Bangladesh, we see a good progress in recent years, 
where our total trade volume reached approximately to 1 billion US Dollars as of last year. In this 
context, we believe that an important potential exists for our b ilateral trade to develop in a balanced 
manner.  
4.125.   We consider that our close partnership within the framework of Developing -8 (D-8) and 
Trade Preferential System under the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (TPS -OIC) will also 
contribute this positive tren d and enhance our ongoing cooperation in the field of trade and 
investments.  
4.126.   Bangladesh, being a WTO Member since 1995, have been actively participating in the works 
of WTO, particularly on behalf of the least developed countries. Moreover, we observe wit h 
satisfaction that during the review period, Bangladesh improved its WTO commitments by ratifying 
the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and has undertaken several trade facilitation initiatives in the 
context of its Customs Modernization Action Plan (2013 -17). Bangladesh is also a staunch contributor 
to our discussions in ongoing negotiations for fisheries subsidies.  
4.127.   In this respect, Turkey will continue to work closely with Bangladesh bilaterally, and here at 
the WTO and we wish the entire delegation of B angladesh here the best of success in this trade 
policy review.  
INDONESIA  
4.128.   This review process is important to Indonesia, not only because we shared similar 
experiences in terms of development efforts, but also because Indonesia has been forging a mutually 
beneficial trade relationship, with Bangladesh.  
4.129.   In the last five years between 2014 and 2018, the value of overall bilateral trade, in non -oil 
products, between Indonesia and Bangladesh, recorded a healthy and positive growth of 8.3%.  
4.130.   During the same five -year period, mutually beneficial trade activities accrued to both 
Indonesian exporters as well as Bangladeshi exporters. Indonesian exports grew by 8.38%, while 
Bangladeshi exports grew by 6.83%.  
4.131.   Chair, Indonesia applauds Bangladesh, for their tireless end eavor in its aim to graduate from 
the LDC status. There are a handful indicators of success to this complex mission, as demonstrated, 
amongst others: (i) persistent high average annual rate of growth in real GDP; (ii) continued efforts 
in diversifying it e conomy, away from an agrarian -based to a more manufacturing -based economy; 
(iii) the decline in poverty levels; and (iv) the sound macroeconomic policies in place, which have 
contributed to stable inflation, moderate public debt, and greater resilience to external shocks.  
4.132.   However, despite these positive macro -economic developments, Indonesia have inquiries, 
on some trade -related policies and practices of Bangladesh. We note that the service sectors 
remained as the main contributor to GDP. Hence, we wanted t o know more on the administration 
and management of Bangladeshi's Mode 3 and Mode 4 commitments.  
4.133.   Indonesia does not discount that certain protective measures is imminent in the noble 
attempt to diversify the economy away from an agrarian based. However, we  are interested also in 
learning more on the high average tariff protection of the textile sector, which – during the review 
period – happened to be among the sectors benefitting from the highest average tariff rates. And 
related to this sector -specific hi gh tariff protection, is the rise in textile product subsidies.  
4.134.   We have included these inquiries in our written questions that we have submitted. And we 
convey appreciation, in advance, for the responses we would receive from the Bangladeshi 
delegation. We  look forward to working with the Bangladeshi delegation.  
4.135.   Excellencies, members of the Bangladeshi delegation, Indonesia sees much scope, yet to be 
explored in our trade -related ties. It is our hope that this TPR process can serve as a forum, to step 
back and analyse the main obstacles to in enhancing our efforts for deeper economic and trade 
cooperation. And we hope that this TPR process would assist both Indonesia and Bangladesh in WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  making more constructive our engagement in the next rounds of negotiation for the 
Indonesia -Bangladesh Preferential Trade Agreement.  
4.136.   In conclusion, my delegation wishes the delegation of the Bangladesh success in this Trade 
Policy Review.  
NEPAL  
4.137.   It is noteworthy that the sound macroeconomic policies of Bangladesh have contributed  to 
maintaining macroeconomic fundamentals including stable inflation, moderate public debt, and 
greater resilience to external shocks.  
4.138.   As a result, Bangladesh reached the World Bank's threshold for lower -middle -income country 
status in 2015. The real GDP  is impressive which has grown at an average 6.8% during the review 
period and with nearly 8% in 2017/18.  
4.139.   We note that Bangladesh has focused on export diversification for sustainable development. 
We commend the Government's vision of poverty free Banglad esh with inclusive development.  
4.140.   Nepal and Bangladesh have enjoyed excellent bilateral relations ever since the establishment 
of diplomatic relations in 1972. The relations between the two countries are based on cordiality and 
cooperation.  
4.141.   The exchange of high-level visits and interactions at various levels have strengthened the 
cordial relations between the two countries.  
4.142.   Both countries have strengthened and expanded the areas of cooperation in economic 
development, trade and investment, including in expl oring the possibility of electricity trade and 
building the cross -border transmission lines.  
4.143.   The hydro sector, tourism, connectivity and trade facilitation sector could offer win -win 
projects for both countries.  
4.144.   As LDC members, Nepal and Bangladesh share  similar perspectives in international fora 
including at WTO and UN and in regional and sub -regional fora including SAARC/SAFTA, BIMSTEC, 
SASEC and BBIN. We share similar development ambitions as we also tackle similar constraints, 
including the impacts of  climate change.  
4.145.   Graduation could be challenging for any LDCs as they are likely to face challenges with 
regard to preferential market access and S&D benefits, among others.  
4.146.   It is important that development partners continue to support graduating LDCs to  implement 
their post -graduation strategies.  
4.147.   To conclude, Nepal wishes Bangladesh for the sustainable graduation within its targeted 
timeline. And, we wish Bangladesh a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
AFGHANISTA N 
4.148.   My delegation commends the Government  of Bangladesh for presenting its comprehensive 
trade policy report and notes the positive development and progress Bangladesh has made to 
improve the country's export competitiveness and favouring the job creation and we are impressed 
by the GDP growth of  more than 6% – up to 7.8% growth for the 2017/2018 fiscal year.  
4.149.   I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Government of Bangladesh for 
the Launch of its eTrade Readiness Assessment Report on Monday at the first day of eCommerce 
Week, where Afghanistan's Assessment was also launched.  
4.150.   Bangladesh has made significant strides in the ICT area, and its efforts to develop the digital 
economy with strong public and private sector collaboration is a case -study in policy development. WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  The growth trajectory of the ICT sector is an indicator of how the e -commerce ecosystem can grow 
in Bangladesh. Endowed with their young, dynamic and IT savvy population, Bangladesh is fertile 
ground for e -commerce to take root and expand.   
4.151.   Bangladesh is one of Afgh anistan's partners. We highly value the steady growth in the 
bilateral trade and cooperation between Bangladesh and Afghanistan.  
4.152.   I would like to end my statement by wishing the esteemed delegation of Bangladesh a very 
successful and productive Trade Policy  Review.  
PHILIPPINES  
4.153.   Bangladesh has recorded an impressive average annual GDP growth rate of 6.8% since its 
last Trade Policy Review in 2012. This economic growth has resulted in a decline in poverty levels, 
which fell to 21.8% in 2018. Sound macroeconomic  policies contributed to stable inflation, moderate 
public debt, and greater resilience to external shocks, which in turn helped Bangladesh cross the 
World Bank's threshold to lower -middle -income country status in 2015. This puts Bangladesh on 
course to gr aduate from least developed country (LDC) status in 2024.  
4.154.   Bangladesh remains committed to the multilateral trading system. A prominent voice for 
LDCs, Bangladesh assumed LDC Group Coordinator role in the WTO in 2015 and continues to be 
active in issues of  importance to LDCs, including the negotiations on agriculture and fisheries 
subsidies. It has also ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement in 2016, becoming the 12th LDC to 
do so. As Bangladesh is expected to graduate from LDC status in 2024, we are con fident that 
Bangladesh will be able to address any post -graduation challenges it may face, including any 
implications for its preferential market access to certain major markets, special and differential 
treatment, and level of official development and tec hnical assistance it may receive.  
4.155.   The Philippines commends Bangladesh's Vision 2021, and we take particular note of the 
strategic policies set by Vision 2021 for developing a Digital Bangladesh. The Digital Bangladesh 
vision of the government requires the strengthening and growth of the IT sector, including the 
development of software and electronic hardware infrastructure. Electronics is just one of the many 
sectors where trade between Philippines and Bangladesh could be further enhanced as Bangladesh 
builds its physical and digital infrastructure.  
4.156.   Bilateral trade between the Philippines and Bangladesh has great potential and the 
Philippines has lined up a number of Business Missions to and from Bangladesh this year to expand 
trade and explore business oppo rtunities and exchanges in the areas of food, cosmetics and 
pharmaceuticals products, among others.  
4.157.   In closing, the Philippines looks forward to further enhancing the mutually beneficial 
economic relations between our two countries through bilateral, regi onal, and multilateral fora.  
BRAZIL  
4.158.   Since its last Trade Policy Review in 2012, Bangladesh has maintained its strong growth and 
has made great strides towards greater levels of development. The World Economic Situation and 
Prospects (WESP) report places th e country as the third fastest growing in the world this year, at a 
rate of 7.4%. These rates have been sustained for the last two decades. Bangladesh is well on its 
way to meet the goal of graduating from Least Developed Country status by 2024, having ful filled 
the three criteria for the first time last year.  
4.159.   Bangladesh also plays an active role in the WTO in the defence of LDC Members' interests 
and has recently ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement. This is a very positive initiative, which 
should be  commended  
4.160.   Trade relations between Brazil and Bangladesh are strong. Brazil is the ninth supplier of 
goods to the Bangladeshi market, representing almost three per cent of all imports to the country. 
However, most of this trade is done through trading comp anies and third countries, which opens up 
the possibility for further developing direct bilateral ties. Brazil's main exports are sugar, corn and 
cotton, this last crop essential for the ever -important garment industry of Bangladesh. We believe WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  this comple mentarity can be further explored and bilateral trade expanded. Brazil does express 
certain concern to the possible restrictions in the Bangladeshi market of beef and poultry, which 
already have high tariffs.  
4.161.   In closing, we commend Bangladesh for its effor ts towards development and stand ready to 
cooperate for closer bilateral relations and a stronger multilateral system.  
MALAYSIA  
4.162.   Malaysia commends the performance of Bangladesh's annual growth at an average of 6.8% 
since 2012, while almost reaching 7.9% in 2018/2019. Such growth has resulted in reduction in 
level of poverty, leading to an improved social indicator. In the current global outlook, it is vital for 
Bangladesh to keep the growth momentum through continuous improvement and reforms.  
4.163.   At the multilat eral front, we commend Bangladesh's active participation and commitments 
at the various discussion and initiatives undertaken, specifically related to LDCs. We commend 
Bangladesh for her ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement undertaken in Septem ber 2016. 
Bangladesh had also assumed an important role as the LDC Group Coordinator in 2015 and has 
demonstrated its commitments voicing the needs and views of the LDCs at the multilateral trading 
system. We hope that Bangladesh will continue to engage Me mbers at all level in the various 
discussions on issues relevant to the sustainability of the multilateral trading system in the future.  
4.164.   In 2018, Malaysia's total trade with Bangladesh increased by 27.3% to USD 2.37 billion from 
USD 1.75 billion. Export gr ew by 29.5% to USD 2.1billion. Main exports to Bangladesh among others 
are petroleum products, palm oil and palm -based products, chemical and chemical products. 
Malaysia's trade with Bangladesh ranked second among South Asia countries in 2018.  
4.165.   Malaysia has  also invested substantially in Bangladesh in the areas of telecommunication, 
health care sector, infrastructure and the education sector. Therefore, Bangladesh's investment 
policies are critical to Malaysian investors.  
4.166.   Malaysia's relationship with Banglad esh also goes beyond bilateral arrangement, whereby 
Malaysia together with Bangladesh are members of D8 Organization for Economic Cooperation. 
Malaysia's tie is also established through the Joint Commission Meeting that has met several times 
in improving c ooperation between the two countries.  
4.167.   While Bangladesh has taken commendable steps to improve its trading and business 
environment through improved customs procedures such as the Customs Modernization Action Plan, 
we strongly encourage Bangladesh to under take continuous notification of the various policies in 
hand to ensure transparency for both investors and members of the WTO.  
4.168.   We would also like to express our appreciation to Excellency Shameem Ahsan, Ambassador 
and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh  and his team for their constructive engagement with 
other delegations here in Geneva.   
4.169.   We wish Bangladesh every success in its fifth Trade Policy Review.  
SRI LANKA  
4.170.   During the review period from 2013 to 2018, the real GDP of the Bangladeshi economy has 
grown at an average annual rate of 6.8%, a notable growth despite the volatilities existed in the 
global economy. Also noteworthy that the poverty level of the country has declined consequently. 
We take this opportunity to congratulate the Government of Bang ladesh on its prospects for 
graduation from the LDC status in the near future and wish to extend Sri Lanka's fullest cooperation 
in this process as a close neighbour in the region.  
4.171.   Bangladesh's post -graduation challenges also include its ability to benefit from unilateral 
trade preferences, such as the EU -GSP scheme. With the graduation Bangladesh may not be a 
beneficiary under the EBA initiative. This means it will be a contender to  benefit from either GSP+ 
or GSP scheme. As GSP+ is not extended on automatic basis, which requires the applicant countries 
to demonstrate that they not only ratify the 27 UN conventions, but also have implemented them WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  effectively at national level. As a c ountry, which has gone through this process at recent times, we 
recognize the challenges ahead of Bangladesh in this regard.  
4.172.   Noting the most recent initiatives such as ratification of Trade Facilitation Agreement and 
due notification of category commitmen ts by Bangladesh reflect its commitment towards multilateral 
trading system. Customs Modernization Action Plan adopted during the review period has brought 
some important regulatory developments at Bangladesh border. Bangladesh is also a dynamic 
member of the WTO in the process of delivering outcome through deliberations.  
4.173.   Tariff being an important source of tax revenue, has accounted for 11.7% of the total tax 
revenue in Bangladesh. A slight decline in average applied tariff during the review period is not ed, 
however, the figure is still relatively high. We are also concerned that the average gap of 147% 
between applied and bound MFN rates which demonstrate high prevalence of 'water' between its 
applied and bound levels leading to low predictability in the Bangladeshi tariff regime.  
4.174.   Based on Bangladesh Vision 2021, which is focused on an export -led growth of the economy, 
we note with interest that the Government of Bangladesh has pursued a range of trade related 
investment policies. My delegation is pleased to note the significant influx of investment from Sri 
Lanka to Bangladesh in Banking and Apparel sector. According to recent statistics, there are about 
45 Lankan companies operating in Bangladesh with investments close to USD 300 million, in the 
sectors o f apparel, banking, paper, consumer goods, etc. We have also noted that Bangladesh Tax 
system adopts a comparatively higher rate of deduction of tax on the income of non -residents, which 
varies from 30% to 7.5% depending on the income and professional cate gories. Sri Lankan investors 
in Bangladesh have experienced a higher rate of tax deduction on payments to non -residents. This 
has been a longstanding concern that Sri Lankan investors in Bangladesh have brought to my 
Government's attention for a negotiated  bilateral solution. My delegation presumes that such 
impediments have been duly addressed or will be addressed through above policy measures, which 
Sri Lanka would mostly welcome.   
4.175.   Let me briefly reflect on the bilateral trade and other economic, politic al and religious 
relations between two countries. The close political, social and religious ties between two countries 
go back to several centuries. The diplomatic relations were established in 1972. The presence of a 
sizable number of Sri Lankan expatriat es and students in Bangladesh has built a bridge between the 
two countries.  
4.176.   Although the growth of bilateral trade in the last few years is significant, the volume of trade 
is not commensurate with its potentials. The two countries have been deliberating on the possibility 
of entering into a Preferential Trade Agreement or a Free Trade Agreement with a view to enhancing 
bilateral trade. The two -way trade between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh has been at moderate and 
stable level. We share similar difficulties w hen it comes to international trade. It is challenging for 
both the countries to diversify the export baskets that we could offer to the world market. Being 
regional neighbours, both Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are members of the Regional Agreements, viz., 
South Asian Free Trade Area, the Asia Pacific Trading Agreement, Bay of Bengal Initiative for 
Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) FTA, the Indian Ocean Rim 
Association for Regional Co -operation (IOR -ARC) and the Global System Trade Pr eferences (GSTP).  
4.177.   Mr. Chairman, in concluding, my delegation appreciates Bangladesh's valued contribution to 
the multilateral trading system and its active engagement in the negotiations. The dynamic role 
played by Ambassador Shameem Ahsan and his team in Geneva in proactively engaging in ongoing 
activities of WTO is highly commendable.  
4.178.   We sincerely wish the delegation of Bangladesh a successful conclusion at its 5th Trade Policy 
Review.  
URUGUAY  
4.179.   Nuestro país desea congratular a Bangladesh por el crecimient o sostenido de su PIB 
observado desde su último Examen de sus políticas comerciales. Dicho crecimiento se acompaña 
con la diversificación de su economía y con una reducción en los niveles de pobreza y a una mejora 
en los indicadores sociales. En consecuenc ia, Bangladesh alcanzó el umbral establecido por el Banco WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  Mundial para pasar a formar parte de la categoría de países de ingresos medianos bajos en 2015, y 
se encuentra en proceso de dejar de tener la condición de país menos adelantado (PMA) en 2024.  
4.180.   Notam os que durante el período objeto de examen, Bangladesh ha aplicado una política 
comercial centrada en el crecimiento de las exportaciones, la diversificación de la producción, el 
aumento de la competitividad, y la utilización y ampliación de acuerdos comer ciales.  
4.181.   Las políticas macroeconómicas aplicadas, han contribuido a estabilizar la inflación, moderar 
la deuda pública y crear mayor resistencia a las crisis externas.  
4.182.   Por otra parte, destacamos el compromiso de Bangladesh con el sistema multilateral de 
comercio, su activa participación en el debate en torno al programa de trabajo sobre comercio 
electrónico para garantizar una mayor participación de las MiPymes de los países en desarrollo, así 
como en la consecución de los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Mileni o.  
4.183.   Celebramos la ratificación por parte de Bangladesh del Acuerdo sobre Facilitación del 
Comercio (AFC). Durante el período objeto de examen, Bangladesh emprendió varias iniciativas de 
facilitación del comercio en el contexto del Plan de Acción para la Mo dernización Aduanera y aplicó 
los compromisos contraídos en el marco del AFC. Del mismo modo, destacamos las importantes 
reformas emprendidas de la Administración de Aduanas para facilitar el comercio, así como la 
elaboración del documento administrativo ú nico. Desde enero de 2017, el Gobierno ha aplicado un 
proyecto de ventanilla única nacional con el fin de cumplir el compromiso de mejorar la facilidad 
para hacer negocios.  
4.184.   Por otro lado, de acuerdo al informe de la Secretaría, las notificaciones presentad as por 
Bangladesh siguieron siendo limitadas, aunque regulares. El arancel sigue siendo uno de los 
principales instrumentos de política comercial y una fuente importante de ingresos fiscales. La 
protección arancelaria varía notablemente de un sector a otro  y dentro de un mismo sector, en 
2018/2019 ascendió en promedio al 18,1% para los productos agropecuarios, un aumento ligero 
con respecto al pasado Examen de políticas comerciales. En el caso de los productos no 
agropecuarios, notamos que hubo una ligera d isminución de la protección arancelaria en relación al 
último examen.  
4.185.   Por último, destacamos la importancia que otorga Bangladesh a los programas destinados a 
garantizar el acceso al financiamiento de las MIPYMES que continúan siendo la columna vertebral d e 
su economía. A través del Banco de Bangladesh se aplican planes de refinanciación para fomentar 
entre los bancos y las instituciones financieras la concesión de préstamos de bajo costo a pymes 
pertenecientes a mujeres empresarias, a agroindustrias, a nue vos empresarios y a otros sectores 
productivos.  
4.186.   Uruguay le desea a Bangladesh el mayor de los éxitos en su quinto examen de sus políticas 
comerciales.  
TCHAD  AU NOM  DES  PMA 
4.187.   Le Bangladesh a montré au cours de la période d'examen de 2012 à 2018 qu'il possédait 
une économie en pleine croissance, connaissant une dynamique robuste, avec en moyenne plus de 
6% de croissance de son PIB - atteignant jusqu'à 7,8% de croissance pour l'exercice 2017/2018.  
4.188.   L'économie du Bangladesh et son dynamisme ont été princip alement tirés par le secteur des 
services, suivi du secteur industriel et du secteur agricole. En particulier, il s'avère que le secteur 
industriel et la production manufacturière ont pris une part plus importante dans la création de la 
richesse du pays.  
4.189.   À ce jour, et grâce à une politique volontariste engagée par le Gouvernement dans le cadre 
de son programmme "Vision 2021", le Bangladesh s'est hissé au rang des pays à revenu 
intermédiaire en 2015, selon le classement de la Banque mondiale.  
4.190.   Le Bangladesh a ffiche des ambitions importantes et entend être en capacité de sortir du 
statut de PMA en 2024, et de suivre une tendance de progression constante et soutenue pour WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  atteindre le stade de pays développé à moyen/long terme dans le cadre de son programme 
"Vision 2041".  
4.191.   Pour cela, le Bangladesh s'est lancé dans de nombreuses réformes visant notamment 
l'amélioration de la compétitivité des exportations du pays, en faisant en sorte que cela favorise la 
création d'emplois. Le Bangladesh vise, à travers ses réformes , une part croissante du secteur 
industriel dans la création de richesse, ainsi qu'une diversification de la production. Le Bangladesh 
vise la production de produits à plus haute valeur ajoutée dans différents secteurs d'activité 
stratégiques identifiés, a insi que l'amélioration de la qualification de la main d'œuvre à travers sa 
politique nationale formulée de développement des compétences.  
4.192.   Le développement des infrastructures fait également partie des priorités du Bangladesh, 
pour la facilitation du comme rce, ainsi que diverses réformes fiscales pour améliorer, notamment, 
l'épargne et l'investissement au sein du pays. Le Bangladesh espère notamment atteindre un taux 
de croissance du PIB de 10% d'ici 2021 pour contribuer à atteindre ses objectifs de dévelop pement.  
4.193.   Du point de vue du Bangladesh, le commerce et les échanges internationaux jouent un rôle 
primordial dans la croissance et le développement du pays. C'est pourquoi le Bangladesh a toujours 
été hautement impliqué, au sein de l'OMC, dans les négociati ons commerciales multilatérales. Le 
Bangladesh a hautement contribué à la défense des intérêts des PMA et à l'obtention de résultats 
en faveur des PMA en vue de leur meilleure intégration au commerce mondial.  
4.194.   Si les PMA doivent effectivement bénéficier d'u n traitement spécial et différencié et de 
flexibilités réelles pour favoriser l'accélération de leur intégration au commerce mondial, ces 
flexibilités doivent également pouvoir être maintenues durant un certain temps après la sortie du 
statut de PMA afin d e garantir une transition en douceur d'un PMA vers son nouveau statut de pays 
en développement.  
4.195.   Les Membres de l'OMC sont ainsi grandement encouragés et appelés à considérer 
positivement la soumission qui a été faite par le Groupe des PMA en avril 2018 vis -à-vis de 
l'Annexe  VII de l'Accord sur les Subventions et les Mesures Compensatoires.  
4.196.   La République du Tchad, au nom du Groupe des PMA, renouvèle toutes ses félicitations à la 
délégation du Bangladesh pour les réformes entreprises et son dynamisme économique et lui 
souhaite un plein succès dans l'accomplissement de ses objectifs, ainsi qu'un plein succès de son 
Examen des politiques commerciales.  
ARGENTINA  
4.197.   La República Argentina observa con gran interés que, desde su último Examen de las 
políticas c omerciales, el PIB de Bangladesh ha crecido a un ritmo anual de alrededor del 6,8%. Su 
economía se ha diversificado, pasando de concentrarse primordialmente en el sector agrario a ser 
una economía con una mayor preponderancia del sector manufacturero. Cabe  mencionar, en tal 
sentido, la Política Industrial Nacional de 2016, orientada a promover el crecimiento industrial 
sostenible e inclusivo, la transformación de las infraestructuras y la diversificación de la base 
económica.  
4.198.   Nuestro país felicita a Banglad esh, asimismo, por haber logrado un crecimiento económico 
estable, reducido los niveles de pobreza, estabilizado la inflación, controlado el gasto y la deuda 
pública, y generado una mayor resiliencia frente a las crisis externas. Prueba de ello es que 
Bangladesh se haya convertido en un país de ingresos medianos bajos en 2015, como así también 
que pueda graduarse de la categoría de País Menos Adelantado (PMA) en un futuro cercano.  
4.199.   La Argentina saluda en particular las acciones emprendidas por Bangladesh par a fomentar 
el crecimiento, la diversificación económica y la reducción de la pobreza a través de la actividad del 
turismo. Confiamos que los proyectos de asociación entre los sectores público y privado en este 
sector darán sus frutos, y que consolidarán la  orientación de la economía hacia el sector de los 
servicios, que representa ya alrededor del 56%.  
4.200.   En cuanto a las relaciones bilaterales, cabe mencionar que han sido positivas históricamente 
y que tienen, además, gran potencial. Al respecto, es de destaca r la reunión de trabajo mantenida WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  por ambos cancilleres en ocasión de la Conferencia PABA+40 (realizada en Buenos Aires durante el 
mes de marzo pasado), proyectando el potencial para el incremento y diversificación del comercio 
bilateral como así también e l avance en proyectos de cooperación entre ambos países.  
4.201.   En cuanto a las cifras del comercio bilateral, el monto total en 2018 ha sido del orden de 
USD 575 millones, siendo las exportaciones argentinas de USD 531 millones y las importaciones de 
USD 44 mill ones. En cuanto a su composición, en las exportaciones se destacaron el aceite de soja 
(70%), trigo (21%), harina y pellets de soja (6%), harina, polvo y "pellets" de despojos de carne 
(1,3%) y maíz (0,8%). Las importaciones, por su parte, fueron de 99% en  bienes de consumo 
(destacándose la indumentaria).  
4.202.   Notamos también que, en líneas generales, Bangladesh siga abierto a la inversión y ofrezca 
incentivos a través de varios programas. Valoramos la puesta en marcha de iniciativas para mejorar 
el entorno de i nversión, como por ejemplo el establecimiento de una ventanilla única. Esta política 
de apertura se ha visto acompañada de aumentos significativos de la Inversión Extranjera Directa 
hacia Bangladesh, que pasó de unos USD 1200 millones en el período 2011 -2012 a unos USD  2600 
millones en el período 2017 -2018.  
4.203.   La Argentina también reconoce el fuerte compromiso de Bangladesh con el sistema 
multilateral de comercio. Y, en especial, la mejora de sus compromisos en el marco de la OMC 
mediante la ratificación del A cuerdo sobre Facilitación del Comercio, como así también las iniciativas 
llevadas adelante bajo el Plan de Acción para la Modernización Aduanera (2013 -2017). Valoramos, 
también que Bangladesh participe de manera activa en Acuerdos Comerciales Regionales (A CR) con 
varios Miembros de esta Organización.  
4.204.   Finalizando, y al tiempo de reiterar nuestro reconocimiento por esta nueva oportunidad de 
intercambiar elementos de juicio y consideraciones sobre las políticas y prácticas comerciales de 
Bangladesh, permítanos  señalar, una vez más, la relevancia de este ejercicio de transparencia en 
todos sus aspectos y desear a las autoridades bangladesíes la exitosa conclusión del presente 
examen.  
PAKISTAN  
4.205.   Pakistan and Bangladesh share deep cultural, historical and economic t ies in South Asia. We 
collaborate on a range of issues at the WTO and share membership in the South Asian Free Trade 
Agreement (SAFTA), Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) and the D -8 Organization for Economic 
Cooperation.  
4.206.   Pakistan and Bangladesh enjo y excellent bilateral economic relations. In 2018, Pakistan 
exported USD 783.825 million and imported USD 72.283 million worth of goods from Bangladesh 
with the balance of trade in favour of Pakistan. The progressive changes scheduled in regional 
preferenc es as per mutual agreements will hopefully give good impetus to these numbers. We are 
heartened to note that the real GDP of Bangladesh has grown at an average annual rate of 
approximately 6.8% since their last TPR in 2012.  
4.207.   The efforts of Bangladesh over the last decade to alleviate poverty and achieve prosperity 
through a sound industrial strategy, provide a good example for developing and LDCs member 
states. The success of Bangladesh's economic strategy is aptly demonstrated by the fact that 
Bangladesh r eached the World Bank's middle -income status threshold in 2015 and fulfilled the 
criteria for graduating out of the LDC status in 2018, according to the UN's Economic Analysis and 
Policy Division. It is expected that Bangladesh will formally graduate from the LDC status in 2024. 
We appreciate that the Government of Bangladesh has already established a committee in order to 
oversee the preparations in the lead -up to graduation and to develop strategies to address 
post-graduation challenges.  
4.208.   The 7th Five -Year Plan of Bangladesh provides a sound plan in order to make structural 
adjustments in the economy in areas such as taxation, improving the business environment, 
enabling private participation in public infrastructure projects and labour policy. Its long -standing 
success in the area of export -led growth will be crucial to achieve the Vision 2021 of Bangladesh 
which aims to achieve middle income status by 2021.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  4.209.   Textiles and textile exports continue to be the largest portion of exports for Bangladesh 
accounti ng for 90% of all exports in 2017/2018 with the largest markets in the EU, US, Canada and 
Japan. Manufacturing remains a very important activity forming 19% of GDP with labour -intensive 
textile and Ready -Made Garments (RMGs) the largest sectors in the manu facturing sector. The 
National Industrial Policy of 2016 should help diversify the narrow industrial base through 
sustainable and inclusive industrial growth, infrastructure transformation and diversification of the 
economic base. It is encouraging to note  that the majority of the workforce in the RMG sector are 
women forming 60% of the total workforce.  
4.210.   Finally, we want to highlight the positive role played by Bangladesh in the WTO under the 
leadership of their Ambassador and appreciate their efforts to hi ghlight the concerns and needs of 
developing countries, in particular the LDCs. We wish them success in their future endeavours to 
achieve their targets for economic growth, prosperity and global integration set for 2021 and look 
forward to greater regiona l collaboration towards our shared goals. We wish them a very successful 
TPR. 
CAMBODIA  
4.211.   My delegation congratulates Bangladesh for its remarkable economic growth at over 6% 
since its 4th review. We also congratulate Bangladesh on its achievement to elevate into a lower 
middle -income country in 2015, with notable improvement in macroeconomic i ndicators and sectoral 
growth.  
4.212.   We commence Bangladesh as an active LDC member in all WTO activities including the works 
important and priority to LDCs, development issues as well as other important issues in the WTO. 
We note with thanks to Geneva -based de legation led by Ambassador Shameem Ahsan for their good 
cooperation and active participations especially in the LDC Group.  
4.213.   With regard to the bilateral trade relation, Bangladesh and Cambodia cooperate in various 
sectors. In 2014, the two countries signed an agreement to establish a joint commission to explore 
new areas of cooperation and strengthen the existing cooperation. Trade between the two countries 
was amounted to $5.57 million in 2016, of which Bangladesh's export was USD 5 million and import 
was U SD 0.57 million. Recently, both countries are committed at a very high level to expand trade 
and investment in many fora.  
4.214.   We applaud Bangladesh for its process of graduating from LDC status. I wish to take this 
opportunity to support in keeping preferenti al treatment to Bangladesh in a longer grace period after 
its graduation because as an LDC a major earning is generated by the preferential scheme provided 
by members. Furthermore, the importance of the special and differential treatment as well as 
technic al assistance are very crucial means for its development. My delegation, therefore, wish these 
kinds of supports will be maintained and continued as well.  
4.215.   Finally, my delegation wishes Bangladesh every success in its 5th TPR.  
BÉNIN  
4.216.   La délégation du Bénin f élicite le Bangladesh pour les progrès enregistrés depuis le 
quatrième Examen de ses politiques et pratiques commerciales grâce à des mesures courageuses 
dans le domaine de la fiscalité, l'amélioration des conditions de travail des entreprises, l'accès du 
secteur privé aux projets d'infrastructures publiques, et la politique du travail.  
4.217.   Une gestion macroéconomique prudente s'est également traduite par une réduction du taux 
de pauvreté, et une stabilisation de l'inflation, une baisse des prix et des niveaux de dette extérieure 
raisonnable, qui a permis une croissance du PIB passant de 6,8% par an à près de 7,9% en 
2017/2018. Des initiatives de mise en œuvre d'un guichet unique sont en cours.  
4.218.   La délégation du Bénin encourage le Gouvernement du Bangladesh à pou rsuivre ses efforts, 
pour relever les défis liés au renforcement des capacités d'offre exportable, la diversification des 
produits et marchés d'exportation, l'économie numérique et les services de l'information et de la 
communication.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  4.219.   Dans le cadre du Programme de Libéralisation du Commerce (TLP), tous les pays membres, 
dont le Bangladesh, ont réduit leurs droits de 0 à 5%, à la fin de 2016, sauf pour les articles figurant 
sur la liste des produits sensibles.  
4.220.   Au plan régional, le Bangladesh est partie à  l'Accord commercial Asie -Pacifique (APTA) qui 
vise aussi le commerce des services et la facilitation des échanges.  
4.221.   La délégation du Bénin salue les progrès importants réalisés par le Bangladesh, notamment 
dans l'amélioration des indicateurs sociaux tels q ue la mortalité infantile et l'espérance de vie.  
4.222.   Le Bangladesh a entamé une série de réformes institutionnelles et structurelles visant à 
accroître davantage les performances macroéconomiques enregistrées. Il est à noter que ces 
réformes engagées ont permi s au Bangladesh d'amorcer sa sortie du Groupe des Pays les Moins 
Avancés (PMA). La délégation du Bénin l'encourage à poursuivre résolument ces efforts afin de 
donner plus confiance aux investisseurs, et de quitter définitivement le Groupe des PMA d'ici 202 4. 
4.223.   Pour terminer, la délégation du Bénin invite les partenaires techniques et financiers 
bilatéraux, régionaux et multilatéraux à accompagner les efforts de développement 
socio-économique entrepris par le Gouvernement du Bangladesh.  
4.224.   La délégation du Bénin remercie le Secrétariat de l'OMC et les Gouvernements du Bangladesh 
pour les rapports très informatifs élaborés dans le cadre de la présente session d'Examen de Politique 
Commerciale du pays.  
4.225.   Elle souhaite plein succès au Bangladesh, et un examen réussi de  sa politique Commerciale.  
EGYPT  
4.226.   Egypt wishes to highlight a few commendable macroeconomic indicators in the WTO 
Secretariat report that indicate a promising development path for Bangladesh. During the period 
under review, Bangladesh achieved strong annual  GDP growth -rates that almost reached 8% in 
2017/2018, while decreasing poverty rates, stabilizing inflation levels and maintaining moderate 
levels of public debt.  
4.227.   The report attributes such growth to the robust ready -made garments and textiles sector, 
which accounts for 90% of total exports. The country continues to expand towards manufacturing 
economic activity, capitalizing on its abundant low -cost labour and maximizing the benefits of its 
generally stable trade policies.  
4.228.   Owing to its remarkable growth levels and impressive economic performance across several 
years, we congratulate Bangladesh for being on course to graduate from the Least Developing 
Country category and acquire its status of a lower -middle income country within the next few years.  
4.229.   Egypt and Bangladesh enjoy strong relations and friendly ties, particularly on economic and 
commercial fronts. In this regard, I wish to highlight that Egyptian exports to Bangladesh witnessed 
a steady growth across the years under review. In 2017 they were 55% higher compared to 2013, 
which is equivalent to an average annual increase of 14%. Likewise, Egypt's imports from 
Bangladesh have almost doubled during the same period.  
4.230.   Egypt looks forward to continue opening up new prospects of bilateral cooperation betwe en 
both countries, with a focus on boosting commercial and investment relations, as well as technical 
cooperation in a manner that would be mutually reinforcing to the development priorities in both 
countries.  
4.231.   Finally, Egypt praises Bangladesh for its impr essive economic performance in the period 
under review and wishes its delegation a fruitful Trade Policy Review.  
VANUATU  
4.232.   My delegation aligned itself with the statement delivered by Chad on behalf of the LDC 
Group.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  4.233.   The Trade Policy Review exercise is a co mmitment and obligation as Members of this 
Institution. Today, we are witnessing another LDC member undergoing its 5th Trade Policy Review.  
4.234.   We wish to commend the discussant H.E Ambassador De Boer of Canada for his work, as 
well as the WTO Secretariat spec ially the TPR Team.  
4.235.   Bangladesh attaches great importance to the multilateral trading system and through trade 
that it has generated growth and development to achieve socioeconomic goals.  
4.236.   However, as an LDC, the Government of Bangladesh is trying to overcom e challenges such 
as infrastructure and energy constraints.  
4.237.   Vanuatu is encouraged to note that the Government is implementing its plan of increasing 
electricity generation capacity to 24 MW by 2021. This is a very commendable commitment.  
4.238.   Vanuatu notes also  that the Government is prioritizing integrated development of roads, rail 
and water ways. To expedite economic development, as well as industrialization by establishing of 
100 special economic zones by the next 15 years is in progress.  
4.239.   In addition, to spe ed up the implementation of the growth enhancing transformational 
projects including the PADMA Bridge project, special fund has been allocated in the national budget.  
4.240.   Vanuatu calls on partners to provide technical and financially support to Bangladesh as t o 
achieve these goals in order to promote economic growth.  
4.241.   Vanuatu calls on partners to help Bangladesh to jointly address the issues of strengthening 
supply side capacities, diversification of exports product and export market, value addition, 
accessing the opportunities of digital economy, IT enabled service economy and others.  
4.242.   Finally, Bangladesh, like Vanuatu, is in the process of graduation. Vanuatu would like to see 
a continuation of preferential market access, support for capacity building and exemp tion from TRIPS 
obligation particularly for the pharmaceutical products will be critically important.  
4.243.   WTO Members therefore need to develop a special programme for newly graduated countries 
for ensuring smooth transition and preventing any setback.  
4.244.   Vanuatu  wishes Bangladesh a successful 5th Trade Policy Review.  
H.E.  MR. TIPU  MUNSHI  (HEAD  OF DELEGATION)  
4.245.   I would just like to take a few moments, first of all, to congratulate you for assuming these 
very important responsibilities. Secondly, I wish to take note,  with deep gratitude, the presence and 
the participation of a very large number of delegations, many represented by the Ambassadors, their 
participation, the advance questions that they have directed to us. It is to us really a mark of interest 
in Banglade sh, and we take it also as an encouragement to our onward march to development.  
4.246.   We have opened our economy. We will do so even more. We also have opened our hearts 
and our doors to a million -strong Rohingyas last year. That is an important event that has numerous 
ramifications for our development pursuits. With these few words, can I also invite all delegations 
present to a light lunch after this session. Thank you very much.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF BANGLAD ESH AND ADDITIONAL C OMMENTS  
5.1.  At the outset, let me express my sincere thanks to you and in particular to Ambassador De 
Boer for his valuable observations at the first session. I would also like to register my deep 
appreciation to the delegates for their comments and encouraging words. Now, I will touch upon the 
main issues raised by the members in their written and oral subm issions. We will respond to the 
additional written questions in due course.  
5.2.  As I have indicated in my opening statement, Bangladesh has made commendable progress in 
maintaining a growth -conducive macroeconomic environment and attaining the targets set by 
"Vision 2021". However, to further accelerate our development and keep the momentum for 
graduation, we need to address the formidable supply -side constraints to improve our 
competitiveness in the domestic and global markets. In the process, we deeply recogn ize the 
supports of our development partners and welcome the foreign investors.  
5.3.  Bangladesh has been pursuing private sector led economic policies since mid -80s. As a result, 
contribution of the private sector in GDP, investment and employment generation ha ve increased 
significantly. In 2012, the Government's share in manufacturing value added was only 2.6% and the 
total number of government establishments was only 2.6% employment in 2013. In fiscal year 
2016/17, the total investment as percentage of GDP was  30.3%, out of which 23% was from the 
private sector. The Government rather puts emphasis on private sector development and has 
undertaken a number of Mega projects such as generating 40,000MW electricity by the year 2030, 
constructing elevated roads and P adma bridges, and e -governance to facilitate private sector led 
development. We, therefore, believe that the statement made at the Secretariat report needs to be 
revisited.  
5.4.  As we mentioned in our report, the Government has been taking several steps for 
implementation of the Perspective Plan 2010 -2021. In line with this, the Government has adopted 
Industrial Policies and Export Policies during the review period. While Industrial Policy targets to 
increase contribution of the industrial sector to 35% of GDP a nd promote inclusive development 
through diversification of industrial base, Export Policies targets to enhance export to USD 60 billion 
through diversification of export base. For this, the industrial policy focuses on few priority sectors 
for investment and extends emphasis on development of SMEs, promoting women entrepreneurship 
and attracting foreign investment.  
5.5.  The Industrial Policy also provides various incentives such as tax exemption, accelerated 
depreciation, concessional rate of interest on curre nt capital; exemption of double tax on royalties 
and technical know -how fees; uninterrupted supply of electricity, natural gas and energy; etc. The 
Industrial Policy 2016 does not make any distinction between domestic and foreign investors. 
Investment in 2 2 sectors by domestic as well as the foreign investors requires prior permission. 
These sectors include infrastructure, financial, power, energy, aviation, telecommunication etc. 
There is no quantitative restriction to invest in these sectors. BIDA has bee n authorized to redress 
the grievance on business activities and investment.  
5.6.  I also like to note that our tax policy does not discriminate between foreign and domestic firms. 
The Foreign Private Investment (Promotion and Protection) Act 1980 ensures fair a nd equitable 
treatment to foreign private investment. In respect of foreign private investment, the transfer of 
capital and the returns from it and liquidation is guaranteed by this Act.  
5.7.  Bangladesh has been gradually improving its domestic rules and regul ations for making foreign 
investment environment more attractive. Portfolio investment is allowed for foreign investors. It will 
be relaxed further, if necessary.  
5.8.  The PPP Office supports line ministries to identify, develop, tender and finance PPP projects . It 
also provides professional, transparent, centralized portal for the interested investors.  
5.9.  The Government of Bangladesh has been trying to diversify export for reducing high 
dependency on apparel sector. It has already identified 12 highest priority a nd 14 special 
development sectors and prepared sets of support programs for boosting up exports in these sectors. 
These programmes include granting project loan at reduced interest rates, income tax rebate, soft 
terms export credit at lower interest rates,  duty draw -back/bond facilities, supports for setting up WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  ancillary industries including infrastructural development for reducing cost of production, expansion 
of institutional and technical capacities for improving quality of products, duty -free import of 
equipment for setting up compliant industry, assistance in marketing, etc.  
5.10.   The Government has also set up sector specific business promotion councils in collaboration 
with the private sector for leather and leather goods, agro -products, fish, IT services, plastic 
products and medicinal plants. Beside this, it has initiated Export Competitiveness for Jobs Project 
with the World Bank support for export diversification. The government's massive programme for 
setting up 100 economic zones will also contribute i n boosting up export of non -traditional items. 
The existing Export Processing Zones are also working to this end.  
5.11.   I am really happy to note that a number of questions are raised related to possible challenges 
of graduation. The existing trade support meas ures adopted by the WTO for LDCs helped to expand 
our exports. The loss of DFQF market access and flexibilities provided by the WTO will pose enormous 
challenges for Bangladesh. Towards this end, UN -CDP is going to have an impact assessment study. 
From our  part, we are also conducting a study to know the impact and possible ways of meeting 
graduation challenges. Upon completion of the study, the Government will review all the relevant 
policies. Keeping in view that several LDCs are in the process of graduat ion, I call upon the WTO 
Members to take actions in line with the General Assembly Resolution 59/209.  
5.12.   Since long, the Government of Bangladesh has been following the practice of extensive 
consultation with private sectors including chambers representing fo reign investors in formulation 
of trade and investment policies.  
5.13.   Bangladesh strongly believes that discussions on work programme on e -commerce have not 
been exhausted as of today. Therefore, the WTO committees should conclude discussions of each of 
the el ements of work programme with specific recommendations that we expressed in our 
submission made before the 11th WTO Ministerial Conference. Regarding discipline on GATS 
domestic regulation, we feel that negotiations on any necessary disciplines must be wit hin the scope 
and coverage of the GATS Article VI.4 and it must create trading opportunity for the LDCs and 
developing countries.  
5.14.   Regarding submission of notifications to the WTO, I suppose members consider the 
administrative constrains faced by Banglades h like other LDCs. However, according to the update 
on notification circulated by the Secretariat on 21 February 2018, status of notification by 
Bangladesh is not as weak as depicted in the report. Bangladesh's compliance with notification 
obligation under  the Agreement on Agriculture is more than 55 percent as assessed by the 
Secretariat.  
5.15.    Bangladesh generally follows the guidelines of CODEX Alimentarius, IPPC and OIE in adopting 
SPS measures. As of today, no higher level of SPS protection is adopted than that of the relevant 
international standards. Accordingly, Bangladesh is not required to notify its SPS measures. 
Bangladesh never imposed any anti -dumping, countervailing or safeguard duty since 1995. It, 
however, has notified the relevant laws and the na me of the investigating authority.  
5.16.   We have recently submitted few notifications on SPS and TBT. Some others are in the process 
of preparation. We will submit those notifications soon as per our obligations. In this regard, I like 
to inform that Waste Gener ated Electrical and Electronic Equipment regulation is still in draft stage 
and is not ready for notification.  
5.17.   As of today, Bangladesh is party to four RTAs. Bangladesh has developed FTA guidelines for 
availing greater market access for trade in goods and  services, attracting foreign investment and 
meeting the LDC graduation challenges. The on -going FTA negotiations are in different stages, i.e. 
some are in feasibility study stage and some are in negotiation stage.  
5.18.   Bangladesh has made notable regulatory r eforms through e -governance. These include 
automation of customs procedures, introduction of Annual Performance Agreement for assessing the 
services delivered by government organizations, online registration of Joint Stock Companies and 
Firms, automation o f the Office of Chief Controller of Import and Export, Bangladesh Bank. E -filing 
has been introduced in all Government offices. The Government has also introduced Grievance 
Redressal System, amended a number of laws and enacted One Stop Service Act, 2018 i n ensuring WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  delivery of 31 investment related services from a single point. Number of documentation 
requirements and service delivery time has been reduced substantially and the fees have been 
rationalized.  
5.19.   The Government will create International Taxpayers' Unit for multinational companies to 
facilitate their activities by the end of 2019. Beside this, the Ministry of Law, Justice and 
Parliamentary Affairs signed an agreement with the International Finance C orporation on Legislative 
Impact Assessment in October 2017.  
5.20.   Bangladesh is a success story of women empowerment. The major initiatives undertaken by 
the Government include formulation of the National Policy for Advancement of Women and 
preparation of Nati onal Action Plan. Government and NGOs extend supports like allocation of 
dedicated loans at lower rate of interest, providing training and marketing supports, participation in 
fairs, setting up a dedicated woman entrepreneur desk at Bangladesh Bank and res erving 15% SME 
loans exclusively for the women entrepreneurs. As a result, Bangladesh secured 47th position in 
women empowerment among 144 countries in 2017.  
5.21.   Let me now turn to the questions related to trade policy measures. During the period under 
review , the government has taken initiative to modernize the customs act. The new customs act will 
have the provisions for authorized economic operator, post clearance audit, advance ruling, risk 
management, advance cargo declaration, mandatory electronic paymen t and reduction of 
discretionary authority of the officials.  
5.22.   Bangladesh, like other LDCs considers tariff as a source of revenue generation and trade 
policy tool. Tariffs are determined through extensive consultations with stakeholders. Regulatory 
duty is  imposed by the Government as and when necessary on a temporary basis till the end of any 
financial year. In addition, under the VAT Act supplementary duties are imposed both on domestic 
and imported goods keeping in mind the tariff bindings in the WTO.  
5.23.   The Government is going to introduce new VAT Act soon. Some basic unprocessed agriculture 
commodities are exempted from VAT, which is equally applicable for imported and domestic 
agriculture products. VAT Act does not make any distinction between domestic a nd foreign investors, 
neither has any provision for increasing export price of tobacco and tobacco products.  
5.24.   Prior permission is required for importation of few agriculture products such as plants and 
plant products, rice and potato seeds, egg of poultry to ensure that the imported agriculture products 
are in line with existing laws and regulation.  
5.25.   The Public Procurement Act 2006 and the Public Procurement Rules 2008 contain provisions 
ensuring transparency in government procurement that include circulatio n of public procurement 
plan at the website and publishes tender in two national newspapers, CPTU website and in UN Gallery 
allowing sufficient time to prepare and submit tenders. In addition, the Government has introduced 
electrotonic government procureme nt called e -GP.  
5.26.   In procuring the services, the Government gives 7.5% preference to the domestic service 
supplier over Foreign Service suppliers. The government has not yet considered becoming observer 
of the WTO Government Procurement Agreement.  
5.27.   Banglades h Competition Commission applies uniform rules to both national and foreign 
companies. Non -discriminatory rules are also applied for both private enterprises and state -owned 
Enterprises. In doing so, the Commission follows all global best practices.  
5.28.   Bangla desh as such does not have any acts and rules for regulating the prices of necessity 
goods and agricultural products that could affect the market forces. Trading corporation of 
Bangladesh and Bangladesh Food Directorate often sell some essential commoditie s including rice 
to poor and vulnerable people of the country at affordable prices for ensuring their food security.  
5.29.   As an LDC, Bangladesh is exempted from the TRIPS obligation, yet the Government updated 
copy right, trademarks and GI laws and rules incor porating the provisions of the TRIPS Agreement. 
The Government has recently adopted the Innovation and IP Policy 2018 through extensive 
consultation with the stakeholders for promoting IP rights and raising awareness keeping in mind WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  graduation from the LDC  status. The Customs Act contains provision to inspect, seize, and detain 
shipments of any counterfeit or pirated goods.  
5.30.   The trade mark is protected under national law and protection is granted if it is registered in 
our country. Geographical indication Ac t ensures GI protection for domestic as well as foreign goods. 
An e-filing system for trade mark applications is in place since January 2018. DPDT has a plan to 
open its database for the public. General Council decision of 30 November 2015 waived all LDCs 
including Bangladesh from the obligation of 70.8 and accordingly Bangladesh does not maintain 
mail-box since then. The Government is now having consultation with stakeholders on joining the 
PCT and Madrid System.  
5.31.   Let me now response on sectoral policies.  
Agriculture and fisheries  
5.32.   Bangladesh provides minimal domestic supports that include expansion of irrigation facilities; 
research on production of improved quality and high yielding varieties of seeds, introduction of 
short-duration crops, Integrated Pest M anagement (IPM), etc. These activities are covered under 
the Green Box subsidies and will be notified accordingly.  
5.33.   Major focuses of Bangladesh in fisheries subsidies negotiation are to ensure exclusion of 
aquaculture and inland fisheries from the disciplin e; exemption from obligation on providing 
subsidies to unreported and unregulated fishing unless capacity is developed through technical 
assistance; not to consider fish in overfished condition due to absence of assessment; exemption 
from obligation on art isanal and small -scale fishing within EEZ, exemption from obligation on 
prohibition of subsidies for capacity building, transition period for graduated LDCs etc.  
Energy sector  
5.34.   The energy sector is already open to foreign investment. Till September 2018, FD I stock in 
the energy sector stands at USD 3,679.82 million. Bangladesh has extensive mechanism to quarterly 
collect and publish the FDI inflow in the country.  
5.35.   Existing policy encourages private sector to generate electricity under PPP and Independent 
Power Plant arrangements. Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Ltd. is responsible for operation, 
maintenance and development of transmission system all over Bangladesh. At present, six 
organizations are responsible for electricity distribution countrywide. More than 50% power is 
generated by private sector and 90% of population has access to electricity. The power sector master 
plan targets to generate 24,000 MW by 2021.  
Manufacturing sector  
5.36.   The Government of Bangladesh has recently adopted policy with time boun d action plans for 
active pharmaceutical ingredients and reagent production and export. Active Pharmaceuticals 
Ingredients (API) Park has been established. Since Bangladesh meets 98% of local demand of 
pharmaceuticals products with domestic production, til l today Bangladesh did not require to use 
Paragraph 6 System for import of pharmaceuticals. As of today, no WTO Members have approached 
to Bangladesh to import medicine using the WTO's Paragraph 6 System.  
5.37.   To reduce negative environmental impact of leather industry, the scattered tanneries have 
been shifted to the BSCIC Leather Industrial Estate with a facility of Central Effluent Treatment Plant. 
The Government has taken project for building clinics and accommodation for the workers engaged 
in leather secto r.   
Service sector  
5.38.   You may recall that during the WTO Hong Kong Ministerial Conference, recognizing the 
particular economic situation of LDCs, Ministers agreed that they are not expected to undertake new 
commitments". Accordingly, Bangladesh is not expect ed to undertake any new commitment in trade 
in services. However, Bangladesh may consider increasing its commitment under GATS upon the 
conclusion Doha Development Agenda.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  5.39.   Bangladesh Bank has been regularly reforming its rules and procedures. Currently, i t is 
implementing a project on risk -based supervision. Currently, World Bank and IMF have undertaken 
Financial Sector Assessment Program for assessing its regulations. A loan disbursement policy has 
been adopted for preventing future non -performing loan. I n addition, a number of committees have 
been formed for analysing the problem of existing non -performing loans.  
5.40.   To address and monitor the operational and managerial risks, Bangladesh Bank has issued 
comprehensive risk management guidelines, such as credi t risk management, asset -liability 
management, internal control and compliance management, operational risk management, foreign 
exchange risk management, environmental risk management and money Laundering and terrorist 
financing. It has also established se veral monitoring tools to oversee the performances of the banks 
and non -bank financial institutions using on -site and off -site supervision mechanisms.  
5.41.   To ensure compliance, Bangladesh Bank independently appoints observer for specific 
commercial bank having  poor CAMELS rating or suffering from poor corporate governance. There is 
well-defined Terms of References for the observers. The observers submit detailed report of the 
meetings and provide instant feedback to Bangladesh Bank. They independently express t heir 
opinion to Bangladesh Bank for necessary actions. There are examples, where appointment of 
observers led to better corporate governance, bringing down non -performance loans and improving 
financial position of the concerned bank.  
5.42.   For granting licenses, Bangladesh Bank follows a transparent and systematic process. It 
assesses the requirement of setting up new banks based on the pre -set criteria. Upon getting license, 
the bank -companies must follow the prudential regulations, guideli nes and instructions of 
Bangladesh Bank.  
5.43.   The requirements for establishing a locally incorporated entity or branches of a foreign bank 
are almost same as that of the local banks. However, a foreign bank has to submit additional 
documents such as commitmen t of the parent bank, clearance from the regulatory authority of the 
parent bank, copy of the license issued by the home country and last three years audited financial 
statements for setting up branches.  
5.44.   As per Guidelines for Foreign Exchange Transactions,  branches of foreign firms and 
companies, foreign banks, financial institutions and insurance companies operating in Bangladesh 
may remit profits abroad through their nominated Authorized Dealers without prior approval from 
Bangladesh Bank. Authorized Deal ers are also allowed to remit dividends to the non -resident 
shareholders without prior approval from Bangladesh Bank. Therefore, no bureaucratic burden is 
associated with repatriation of any kinds of returns from the foreign investments including profits.  
5.45.   The Industrial Policy 2016 designates the insurance as one of the controlled sectors that 
require prior permission for investment. It is mandatory to set up a company in Bangladesh to obtain 
an insurance license. There is no opportunity to provide cross b order insurance services. At present, 
the Government does not have any plan to make any changes of the existing policy.  
5.46.   Insurance sector could not achieve expected level of growth because of inadequate public 
awareness. The recent growth of state -owned lif e insurance may be attributed to the increasing 
trend of public confidence in state -owned life insurance. The objective of the Insurance Sector 
Development Project is to strengthen the institutional capacity of the regulator and state -owned 
insurance corpo rations and increase the coverage of insurance in Bangladesh through creating public 
awareness.  
5.47.   To stabilize the capital market and develop confidence among investors, Bangladesh 
Securities and Exchange Commission disseminates price sensitive information,  conducts campaigns, 
publishes printed and online brochures and booklets. It has also established Financial Literacy 
Department and sends SMS alert to beneficiary owner account holders.  
5.48.   The Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission maintains a publicl y available database 
for monitoring the activities of the companies and protecting the interest of the investors, prevention 
of any fraudulent activities and smooth growth of the capital sector. The information preserved in 
the database provides helps to m onitor the performances and financial health of a company. It has 
also a Central Depository System which works like a bank for shares instead of money.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  5.49.   Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Authority is yet to develop modalities for 
utilization of the fu nd collected to meet universal service obligation, which would ensure availability 
of services in remote areas.  
5.50.   Development of road and rail transport infrastructure is the top priorities of the government. 
Accordingly, a number of First Track and Mega Pro jects have been undertaken by the Government 
where the lead contractors are foreign firms. In addition, the government also invites PPP in 
developing transport infrastructure where no restriction exists on participation of foreign firms.  
5.51.   The Bangladesh Fla g Vessels (Protection) Ordinance 1982 ensures that at least 40% of sea -
borne cargo is to be carried by national flag vessels, in conformity with the UNCTAD Code of Conduct 
for Liner Conferences. The provision applied in Bangladesh is irrespective of the ty pe of vessels. 
However, in keeping with the needs of the country's foreign trade, these provisions of the Ordinance 
are relaxed time to time through general waiver.  
5.52.   The Government has taken a number of projects for improving the port capacities and meeting  
growing demands of the country. Out of these, Laldia Terminal project will be implemented through 
PPP Model, proposals from private sector for establishing Bay Terminal project is under consideration 
and Matarbari Port project will be implemented with the  support from JICA.  
5.53.   Private sector is engaged in terminal and berth operation services, cargo and container 
handling services along with the operation of 10 Gantry cranes in Chattagram port. In addition, 
17 dry ports, in close vicinity of Chattagram Port are operated by the private sector.  
5.54.   I hope I have covered most of the points raised by the distinguished Members. Once again, I 
would like to appreciate your kind interest in Bangladesh's trade policy, your active participation and 
your constructive sugge stions.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.55.   I would like to thank the Government of Bangladesh, led by Mr. Tipu Munshi, Minister of 
Commerce and the entire Bangladeshi delegation on its openness and high level of participation in 
their fifth Trade Policy Review. I also want to com mend Bangladesh for following the alternative 
timelines in their Trade Policy Review.  
5.56.   I would also like to thank WTO Members for their active engagement in this Trade Policy 
Review. The interest and importance that WTO Members place on the trade policies a nd practices of 
Bangladesh was exhibited with over 120 questions by 13 Members and from 30 statements by 
Members in the Trade Policy Review on Wednesday.  
5.57.   From my perspective as a discussant, I am reminded of the value of the trade policy review 
process in the WTO. The TPR process is a unique opportunity that enhances transparency in the 
WTO by allowing the examination of trade policies and practices of Members in a productive and 
constructive manner. While the WTO faces many challenges today, the TPR proces s remains a 
well-functioning and essential pillar of the WTO.  
5.58.   The discussion over the last two days highlighted the substantial economic progress and 
reforms Bangladesh has made since its last Trade Policy Review. While much progress has been 
made on econo mic growth and poverty reduction, Members have also pointed out areas where 
continued reforms and attention from the Bangladesh government is needed to help with the 
transition from LDC status in 2024.  
5.59.   On this point, I believe Members recognize the diffic ult challenge that remains for Bangladesh 
to reach its goal of graduating from the LDC category by 2024.  
5.60.   I would now like to highlight some of the comments made by Members over the course of this 
Trade Policy Review.  
5.61.   First, I would like to touch upon Bangl adesh's role in the multilateral trading system and the 
WTO. Members noted Bangladesh's strong commitment to the WTO and the multilateral trading WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  system illustrated through the leadership role Bangladesh has played in coordinating the LDC group, 
and in rat ifying the Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
5.62.   Members also encouraged Bangladesh to continue to play an active role at the WTO. Members 
noted Bangladesh can demonstrate this commitment by increasing efforts to meet WTO notification 
requirements and engaging wi th the Secretariat to assist in this endeavour; to consider joining the 
Joint Statement Initiative (JSIs) on e -commerce, and investment facilitation, MSMEs and the 
Declaration on Women and Trade from Buenos Aires; and by joining the WTO's Government 
Procur ement Agreement.  
5.63.   Next, I would like to highlight some areas where Bangladesh has taken concrete steps forward 
and where challenges remain to safeguard its strong economic growth.  
5.64.   Members have welcomed reforms undertaken to expand trade, investment and eco nomic 
growth. This includes through Bangladesh's export -oriented policy in plan Vision 2021, and through 
its import policy 2015 -2018. In addition, Members applauded the steps forward Bangladesh has 
taken in streamlining regulations in its One Stop Shop act  aimed at creating a stable environment 
to attract and retain foreign investment.  
5.65.   Members also highlighted the role ready -made garment (RMG) sector plays in driving the 
export led economic growth of Bangladesh. While this sector has driven strong growth, M embers 
encouraged Bangladesh to take steps to diversify its exports which remain highly concentrated in 
this sector.  
5.66.   In conclusion, I would like to thank Bangladesh and all Members who participated in the fifth 
Trade Policy Review over the past two days.  
5.67.   I hope the Bangladeshi delegation has found this trade policy review productive and useful. I 
would like to wish Bangladesh continued success in its economic and trade policy reforms as it moves 
closer to its transition from LDC status in 2024. Thank you,  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.68.   Let me first thank Bangladesh for the comprehensive overview presented last Wednesday and 
this morning of the main developments occurred during the review period.  
5.69.   The EU is pleased to note that this review has been very useful for better understanding the 
trade policy of Bangladesh and hopes that it will duly take into account some of the challenges 
highlighted by Members.  
5.70.   The EU appreciates the timely replies provi ded to all the EU questions. We have submitted 
two follow -up questions related to Bangladesh's foreign investment regime and we look forward to 
the responses in due time.  
5.71.   Thank you again for the constructive participation in this exercise.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.72.   The United States congratulates Bangladesh on a successful Trade Policy Review and 
commends Bangladesh's commitment to bring its trade and investment regime into compliance with 
the WTO rules.  
5.73.   Bangladesh has seen measurable results, including graduating to W orld Bank lower -middle 
income status in 2015 and, it is expected, LDC graduation in 2024.  
5.74.   We have submitted follow -up questions in the area of standards and technical requirements, 
and we look forward to Bangladesh's responses to these questions.  
5.75.   We again thank the delegation for their efforts to prepare for this successful TPR, and we wish 
them a safe journey home.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  BÉNIN  AU NOM  DU GROUPE  AFRICAIN  
5.76.   Le Groupe africain salue les efforts et les réalisations en matière de promotion du commerce 
international. Les  actions et initiatives menées sont encadrées par le Programme "Vision 2021" et le 
Programme "Vision 2041" qui ont permis d'obtenir une croissance stable et des résultats 
économiques, commerciaux et sociaux remarquables.  
5.77.   Il note avec satisfaction la nette progression des indices économiques globaux, notamment 
en ce qui concerne les infrastructures, les secteurs de l'énergie, des technologies de l'information et 
de la communication (TIC), des investissements, suivant l'approche de partenariat public -privé (P PP) 
qui se traduit également par un accroissement continu du produit intérieur brut (PIB) depuis 2012. 
La politique des exportations 2015 -2018 a contribué à développer des secteurs stratégiques et la 
mise en place de programmes spéciaux.  
5.78.   La dynamique ainsi  impulsée, avec une approche basée sur le cycle de vie pour les 
programmes de protection sociale, a permis d'enregistrer une baisse réelle du nombre de personnes 
en situation de pauvreté extrême, même si des efforts restent à fournir dans ce domaine.  
5.79.   Ainsi, le Groupe africain voudrait renouveler son soutien et son encouragement au Bangladesh 
pour les réformes engagées dans les domaines administratif, juridique, fiscal et douanier, ainsi que 
pour l'option faite d'une gestion prudente de sa politique monétair e. Les efforts devront être 
poursuivis dans les secteurs porteurs de la croissance, tels que les services, l'agriculture, la pêche, 
la sylviculture, et l'industrie.  
5.80.   Le secteur des investissements, et surtout de l'épargne interne, qui demeure encore faible,  
se situant entre 10 et 12%, devra continuer à être soutenu avec la mise en œuvre de mesures 
favorables à l'investissement et la "politique nationale de développement des compétences" mise en 
place par le Gouvernement depuis 2011.  
5.81.   Le Groupe africain appréc ie la contribution importante que le Bangladesh apporte aux travaux 
de négociation à l'OMC, dans différents groupes, formats et configurations de travail, ainsi que sur 
le terrain, notamment dans la perspective d'obtenir des résultats significatifs à la 12 ème Conférence 
ministérielle de l'OMC à Astana en 2020.  
5.82.   Le Groupe réitère son soutien au Bangladesh, et exhorte les Membres de l'OMC à poursuivre 
leur assistance aux efforts et réalisations du pays en vue de l'atteinte des objectifs de développement 
économ ique et social durable et inclusif.  
5.83.   Pour terminer, il souhaite un examen réussi de la présente session d'Examen de politiques 
commerciales de la République Populaire du Bangladesh.  
H.E.  MR. TIPU  MUNSHI  (HEAD  OF DELEGATION)  
5.84.   Thank you for the opportunity to express, once again, my appreciation to you for the very 
lively discussions and keen interest about our trade regime. During the two -day sessions, my 
delegation carefully listened to your valuable comments and took note of the discussions. We already 
respo nded to the written questions that we have received until the 3rd of April 2019. We, however, 
received some follow -up questions, to which we will respond once we return to our capital. We firmly 
believe that the issues raised here in the WTO will contribut e to improving our trade policy, 
promoting our trade and investment, and extending our multilateral ties.  
5.85.   Bangladesh highly regards the value of the TPR as an essential pillar of the WTO, as it provides 
a unique opportunity to improve trade policy, regime and bring transparency to the system.  
5.86.   We all agree that the WTO is now passing a critical phase. We could not deliver what we 
promised in Doha. This has been posing challenges in upholding trust in the multilateral trading 
system. We should note that our d iscussions here will not only impact on global trade but have 
serious implications on the lives and livelihood of many millions of people, particularly to those living 
in the economically vulnerable countries.  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  5.87.   You all appreciated our impressive GDP growth and remarkable achievement in attaining MDG 
targets. This is, however, not enough in achieving our MDG targets, particularly in ensuring economic 
growth of our country and facing graduation challenges.  
5.88.   We therefore need more shared opportunities for sustai nable graduation and fulfilling the 
MDG goals.  
5.89.   Given the present moment of graduation of a number of LDCs, I ask the WTO Members to 
time our action plan with special emphasis on preferential market access and continuation of other 
exemptions that they are currently enjoying in ensuring sustainable graduation.  
5.90.   We look forward to receiving meaningful cooperation from the Members and the developed 
partners. Thank you.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  The fifth Trade Policy Review of Bangladesh has offered us a good opportunity to deepen our 
understanding of recent developments in, and challenges to, its trade, economic, and investment 
policies. Since its last Review in 2012, Bangladesh's initiatives to  further integrate into the 
multilateral trading system and take advantage of the opportunities it offers have been greatly 
appreciated. Indeed, the more than 150 advance written questions submitted by 16 Members and 
the 30 delegations that took the floor during the first day underline the importance attached by 
Members to Bangladesh's trade and investment policies and practices.  
6.2.  I would like to thank the Bangladeshi delegation, led by the Honourable Minister of Commerce, 
Tipu Munshi, for its active partic ipation in this exercise. I would also like to thank our discussant 
H.E. Mr. Stephen C. De Boer, Ambassador of Canada, for his insightful remarks, and all the 
delegations that took the floor for their valuable contributions to this Review.  
6.3.  Members did com mend Bangladesh for its strong economic performance, which was enabled 
by prudent macroeconomic management. Robust GDP growth over the period under review has 
allowed the reduction of poverty and the improvement of other social indicators, as well as enabl ing 
Bangladesh to cross the World Bank's threshold for lower -middle -income countries in 2015 and to 
be on track to graduate from least developed country (LDC) status by 2024. Members did commend 
Bangladesh for implementing several policies, including Visio n 2021 and 2041, the National 
Industrial Policy 2016, the Export Policy 2018 -21 and for its efforts in areas of regulatory reform, 
taxation and improving its business environment, including the One -Stop Shop (OSS) Act and 
promoting trade facilitation. On t he other hand, Members also stressed that in order to keep the 
growth momentum and  address post -LDC graduation challenges, Bangladesh would have to engage 
further in ongoing reforms, which would enhance the diversification of its economy and the 
competitiv eness of its industries, as well as improve its business environment and fiscal conditions.  
6.4.  Members praised Bangladesh for its strong support and active participation in the Multilateral 
Trading System, as well as for its role as a prominent coordinator fo r LDCs at the WTO. It was also 
commended for expanding its WTO commitments including through the ratification of the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Bangladesh was encouraged to consider joining the WTO Government 
Procurement Agreement as an observer, and to participate actively in the joint statement initiatives 
on e -commerce, investment facilitation, MSMEs, and women empowerment agreed at the 
11th Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires. Members also noted Bangladesh's record of WTO 
notification, due i n part to lack of administrative constraints, and encouraged the strengthening of 
efforts in this area and furthering regulatory transparency. Bangladesh's participation in several 
RTAs was also noted and its ongoing efforts with various negotiations.  
6.5.  Memb ers congratulated Bangladesh for its achievements in trade facilitation, including the 
implementation of the Authorised Economic Operator system, as well as measures to make customs 
formalities and procedures simpler, more transparent and more efficient, i ncluding through the 
Customs Modernization Action Plan 2013 -17 and plans to establish a national single window for 
traders by end 2021. However, despite praise for the use of mainly ad valorem  tariff rates, some 
concern was raised regarding the overall gap  between the simple averages of bound rates and MFN 
applied rates and the lack of predictability that this gap could lead to. Consequently, Bangladesh 
was encouraged to find ways to provide more certainty to importers and traders and consider taking 
tariff liberalization action. Some Members appreciated efforts in implementing the regulatory and 
institutional framework for competition policy as well as for strengthening its IPR protection 
legislation.  
6.6.  There were other issues also raised by certain Members.  They included climate change 
vulnerability, efforts at improving workers' safety, diversification of the economy, policies to 
encourage privatization, expansion of special economic zones, power generation capacity, transport 
infrastructure development, re gulatory guidelines for pharmaceuticals and medical devices, support 
to the textiles sector, development of the ICT sector, liberalization of trade in services and challenges 
to the banking sector.  
6.7.  The above are some of the key issues that had emerged in our discussion. I hope that the 
Bangladeshi delegation will take into account and further reflect on these issues and on the many 
constructive comments, both broad and detailed, that it has received during this Review. Finally, I WT/TPR/W/ 164 • Bangladesh  
 
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  would like to thank all th ose that participated in our discussion, and I look forward to receiving the 
further answers from Bangladesh to any outstanding questions within one month, at which point the 
Review will be successfully concluded.  
__________