Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Nepal and Bangladesh held the 8th Commerce Secretary-Level Meeting (CSLM) in Dhaka from January 13 to 14, 2026, with a focus on boosting bilateral trade, investment, and economic cooperation.
According to a statement issued by the Embassy of Nepal in Dhaka, the Nepali delegation was led by Industry, Commerce and Supplies Secretary Dr Ram Prasad Ghimire, while the Bangladeshi side was headed by Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman.
The meeting reviewed progress made since the 7th CSLM held in Kathmandu in April 2024.
Speaking at the meeting, Dr Ghimire said there is a need to enhance bilateral trade by reducing trade-related barriers, including additional duties and charges. He also underlined the importance of close cooperation at regional and international forums in view of the impending graduation of both countries from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category.
Similarly, Rahman emphasised strengthening economic partnership through deeper collaboration in trade and investment, connectivity, and tourism. He reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to upgrading transport infrastructure, simplifying customs procedures, and improving trade facilitation to unlock new opportunities in bilateral economic cooperation.
Both sides agreed to convene a meeting of the Trade Negotiating Committee within the next three months to expedite negotiations on the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), including the text, Rules of Origin, and product lists. They also agreed to work closely on harmonising customs procedures, facilitating cross-border payments, and addressing broader non-tariff barriers to promote stronger trade and investment ties.
The ninth CSLM will be held in Kathmandu.
