The economic and commercial ties between Nepal and Bangladesh have been steadily growing over the years, offering great potential for the expansion and diversification of trade between the two countries. Nepal primarily exports red lentils, plants and plant parts (including seeds and fruits), amriso, ginger, large cardamom, fruits and fruit juice, among others. Major imports from Bangladesh include oil cakes, electric accumulators, medicaments, jute and other textiles, and potatoes.
Balance of Trade between Nepal and Bangladesh Value in ‘000’ NRs
| S. N. | Fiscal Year | Export | Import | Balance |
| 1. | 2018 | 1,297,978 | 4,783,284 | -3,485,306 |
| 2. | 2019 | 1,364,290 | 5,863,738 | -4,499,448 |
| 3. | 2020 | 478,128 | 4,381,322 | -3,903,194 |
| 4. | 2021 | 702,092 | 15,226,585 | -14,524,493 |
| 5. | 2022 | 578,186 | 7,466,789 | -6,888,603 |
| 6. | 2023 | 574,024 | 6,045,979 | -5,471,955 |
Source: Trade and Export Promotion Center, GoN
Nepal’s export value is expected to increase with the decision of the Bangladesh Government to lift a two-decade-long ban on Nepali yarns entering Bangladesh via Banglabandha Land Custom Station (LCS) in December 2022.
With a view to enhancing trade and economic engagements, the two countries are negotiating a preferential trade agreement (PTA). A trade negotiation committee (TNC) has been assigned to negotiate the PTA text, determine Rules of Origin, and finalize product lists.
Likewise, Nepal-Bangladesh Commerce Secretary Meeting (CSLM) reviews various aspects of economic and commercial relations, including trade, transit, connectivity, and investment. The seventh CSLM meeting was held in Kathmandu on 18-19 April 2024.