Economic Reporter :
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 recently.
“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”, she said.
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.
