Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has called for early negotiations on a free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union. He said the move is essential to protect the country’s trade preferences in its largest export market once duty-free access ends.

Yunus made the remarks during a meeting with Nuria Lopez, chairperson of the European Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (EuroCham), at the state guest house Jamuna in Dhaka. EU Ambassador Michael Miller was also present.

Lopez stressed that Bangladesh must begin FTA talks urgently. She said India is negotiating an agreement with the EU, while Vietnam already enjoys preferential access. She added that an FTA could attract European investment, create jobs, and boost exports to Western markets.

Professor Yunus noted that Bangladesh recently signed an economic partnership agreement with Japan, securing duty-free access for over 7,300 products. He said the government aims to hold similar talks with the EU to protect key exports, including ready-made garments.

He also said the government is creating a free trade zone to turn the country into a manufacturing hub.

The meeting touched on the upcoming general elections. Yunus welcomed the EU’s plan to deploy international observers, calling it a strong vote of confidence in Bangladesh’s democracy. Senior government officials, including SDG coordinator Lamiya Morshed, were also present.