Bdnews24 | 27 September 2025
Bhutan keen on free trade deal with Bangladesh
Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay has expressed interest in signing a free trade agreement (FTA) with Bangladesh and in linking the special economic zones of the two countries.
Speaking at a meeting with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Friday, Tshering also outlined Bhutan's interest in hydroelectric potential while calling for investment from Bangladesh’s pharmaceutical companies, state news agency BSS reports.
Welcoming the proposals, Yunus said that bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Bhutan could be taken "to a new level" through increased connectivity, trade and investment.
Tshering also suggested connecting Bhutan’s special economic zone, Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), with the special economic zones in Kurigram allocated for Bhutanese investors, noting that such a move would benefit both nations significantly.
The two leaders discussed exploring all opportunities for expanding trade and investment between the countries.
The Bhutanese premier also highlighted his government’s plans to promote religious tourism. He mentioned that Buddhist monks from Bangladesh could visit Bhutan, which would contribute to tourism development.
Tshering also requested cooperation on establishing fibre-optic connections between the two countries.
The meeting touched on the Rohingya crisis as well, with Tshering confirming that Bhutan would participate in the UN plenary session on the issue on Sept 30.
Tshering praised Yunus’ leadership, referring to him as “my professor”, and complimented the design of Bangladesh’s new chancery building in Thimphu, noting its theme “Bay of Bengal at the Foot of the Himalayas”.
Yunus later invited the Bhutanese PM to visit Bangladesh. Tshering accepted, saying he would likely make the trip before Bangladesh’s national elections in February.
