Northeast Desk, 13th January: The recent electoral success of Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh has ignited optimism in Tripura, hinting at potential enhancements in trade relations between the two neighboring regions. With a shared international border of 856 km, Tripura anticipates significant benefits from Prime Minister Hasina’s renewed leadership.
Despite past restrictions imposed by the Bangladesh government on specific products like tea, rubber, clothes, machinery, and certain food items, there is hope that Sheikh Hasina’s leadership will lead to a reconsideration of these bans, opening up new export opportunities from Tripura.
Presently, Bangladesh imposes restrictions on products such as tea and rubber, and Tripura, a significant producer of approximately 9 million kgs of tea and 83701.23 MT of rubber, is optimistic that these restrictions will be lifted under Hasina’s governance.
Sujit Roy, the General Secretary of the India-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industries (IBCCI) Tripura Chapter, expressed confidence that Sheikh Hasina’s victory would positively impact Tripura. He highlighted the strategic advantage of the upcoming Sabroom Integrated Check post in South District, set to serve as a crucial gateway for imports and exports, facilitating smoother trade between Tripura and Northeast India.
Acknowledging previous restrictions, Roy stated, “We are hopeful this time the Bangladesh government will lift the ban. We are happy that Sheikh Hasina’s party won again as it will be beneficial for Tripura and the Northeast too.”
Nabadal Banik, Chairman of the Tripura Industrial Development Corporation (TIDC), emphasized the cordial relationship between Tripura and Bangladesh. Banik cited existing infrastructural developments such as railways and border haats, indicating the foundations of a robust trade connection.
“We will hold discussions on the ban imposed by the Bangladesh government and are hopeful that this time they will lift the ban. We have received help in terms of trade opportunities during the last tenure of Sheikh Hasina as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, and this time also we are hopeful,” added Banik.
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