Bangladesh and Thailand have decided to start direct coastal ships to boost export and import between both the countries.
Bangladesh Ambassador to Thailand Saida Muna Tasneem made the statement at a press conference which was held at the Shipping Ministry on Tuesday afternoon.
She said: “Both Bangladesh and Thailand are planning to start direct coastal ships. We will have to study the possibility of establishing the direct communication and if we get a positive result, then we will sign a Memorandum of Understanding.”
The coastal communication between Bangladesh and Thailand will take place with the help of Chittagong and Ranong ports.
However, ships have to take a long route via Malaysia and Singapore to reach the respective countries.
This increases the transport cost.
Replying to a question about the export and import ratio, Ambassador Saida Muna Tasneem said: “Around 90% of the export and import takes place from Bangladesh’s end.
“On the other hand, less than 10% import and export takes place from Thailand’s side.
“The ratio is expected to rise once the countries use direct shipping.”
Earlier in the day, a 12-member Thai delegation met the authorities of the Shipping Ministry regarding the matter.
