New Zealand’s Non-Resident High Commissioner, David Pine, has expressed the New Zealand government’s interest in providing technical and strategic cooperation to support Bangladesh’s economic and industrial development. He stated that New Zealand would positively consider building effective partnerships if Bangladesh provides a detailed roadmap outlining the specific sectors where it seeks New Zealand’s cooperation.

The High Commissioner made these remarks during a bilateral meeting with Mahmud Hasan Khan, President of BGMEA, held on 21 May 2026 at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara, Dhaka. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral trade, exploring new avenues for investment, and strengthening long-term strategic cooperation between the two countries.

BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan welcomed the cooperation proposal extended by the High Commissioner. He said that BGMEA is working with a far-reaching roadmap and visionary initiatives to increase Bangladesh’s ready-made garment exports to 100 billion US dollars by 2035. To achieve this goal and address global geopolitical risks, BGMEA is placing special emphasis on expanding into new and promising markets such as New Zealand beyond traditional export destinations.

It was noted during the meeting that Bangladesh currently faces a trade deficit of nearly 300 million US dollars with New Zealand. According to data from the 2024–25 fiscal year, Bangladesh exported approximately 100 million US dollars’ worth of products to New Zealand, of which 94 percent consisted of ready-made garments. Both sides agreed to work jointly to reduce the trade gap and utilize the vast potential for expanding bilateral trade.

BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan also mentioned that the current BGMEA Board is working not only on product and market diversification within the apparel sector, but also on promoting exports beyond ready-made garments in alignment with the government’s long-term economic strategy. He specifically highlighted the diversification of textile, footwear, pharmaceuticals, and furniture industries, where New Zealand’s technical partnership could play a significant role. The High Commissioner expressed his agreement on the matter.

As part of the sustainable transformation of the ready-made garment sector, discussions were also held on the use of renewable energy. BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan sought advanced technical support and cooperation from New Zealand in this area.

The meeting further discussed increasing the brand visibility of Bangladeshi apparel products in the New Zealand market. Since many leading global brands do not operate directly in New Zealand, BGMEA sought guidance on establishing direct business connections with local buyers and retailers in the country. In response, High Commissioner David Pine advised Bangladeshi entrepreneurs to participate in various international expos and trade fairs held in New Zealand. He also assured that the High Commission would extend all possible support if a business delegation from Bangladesh visits New Zealand.

During the meeting, BGMEA also proposed promoting Bangladeshi own brands in the New Zealand market, to which High Commissioner David Pine responded very positively.