Since the independence a quite extensive development cooperation has dominated the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Sweden. At the same time, however, trade has developed in a positive way albeit from a low level. At the moment trade with Bangladesh accounts for 0,1 % both of Sweden’s total exports and of our total imports.
The Swedish export have had an gradual increase over the years and reached a peak in 2007 with 2073 million SEK. This peak was largely a result of an up scaling of the telecommunications sector and exports to provide equipment to this end. After this investments phase in the telecommunication sector the export have now decreased to 849 million SEK for 2008, but remains on a steady level. Telecommunication apparatus and equipments account for more than 40 % of the export to Bangladesh. Machinery and other engineering products, paper, wood, ore, iron, steel and chemical products are other important export products.
In 2008 the Swedish import from Bangladesh was approximately 1470 SEK, an increase of 7 % since 2007. It’s a fact, however, that the registered trade statistics underestimates the import figures as Bangladeshi products intended for the Swedish market are often off-loaded in other countries in the European Union. About 98 % of the import from Bangladesh consists of readymade garments, knitwear and other textiles.
There is a potential for increased trade between Sweden and Bangladesh. The positive image of Sweden in Bangladesh is an important factor when promoting Swedish industries in Bangladesh for example energy, environment, paper pulp and leather-products. Also in the field of textiles, ready made garments and pharmaceuticals there are significant opportunities for growth in our trade relations.
For Swedish exporters and importers who are interested in trading with Bangladesh or Swedish investors in establishing a presence in Bangladesh, you are welcome to contact the Swedish Trade Council office in New Delhi, or the Swedish Embassy in Dhaka.
There are more than 50 Swedish or Swedish-related companies represented in Bangladesh by themselves or by agents.