The Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) is capable of playing a larger role in the market, says Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi.

He said planning was in progress to expand the scope of the government agency’s functions and that preliminary discussions have already been held.

“I want to take forward the tasks initiated by my predecessors,” he told Bangla Tribune in an exclusive interview.

Munshi vowed to put his very best to bring about success in line with the policies laid out by the prime minister, like friendly business relationship, generous commerce policies, expanding the scope of trading and increasing export earnings.

As the commerce minister, Munshi said his primary goal is to attain the trade-related targets of the government.

He wants to see through the ongoing work to setup 100 export zones, keeping prices of essentials reasonable, reaching export targets and boosting investments.

With the month of Ramadan nearing, the commerce minister said that the government is watchful to ensure that prices of essentials do not go up.

“The markets are being monitored, which will be intensified gradually,” he said before adding he will soon convene a meeting with the people concerned and check the availability of products relevant to the month of fasting and determine the need for import.

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‘Revoking GSP facility to US hurt Bangladesh’s image’

On regaining GSP facility to the US market, the minister said, “All conditions put forth by the US have been fulfilled. The labour law has been modernized as well.”

“Talks are on with the US over restoring the GSP facility,” a hopeful Munshi said. 

On exports, Munshi said, “To reach the target of $60 billion earnings by 2021, Bangladesh must find new markets and diversify its exports.”

Elaborating the idea, he said, “We are already focusing on identifying newer avenues. Japan is a potential market. Among the products, export of leather and medicine can be increased.”

Speaking about the Border Haats, Munshi said, “The setting up or haats must gauge the population density in both sides of the border.”

The existing markets setup at the borders with India has further strengthened the mutual relationship between the two countries.

Authorities of both sides have already discussed possible expansion of market in India, he said adding that the matter has also been discussed with the Indian High Commissioner to Dhaka.

The minister said he has undertaken few steps in the two and a half months he has taken charge of the ministry, which includes the upcoming bilateral trade deal with Czech Republic, new business prospects with Japan, the upcoming visit by a Russian delegation and the recent trip by a delegation from Saudi Arabia led by two ministers.