An Afghan trade delegation visited Dhaka and made firmly clear its strong interest in sourcing apparel from Bangladesh, signaling a new opening for garment exporters. The group, led by the head of Afghanistan’s Trade Economic Division, met with leaders of Bangladesh’s knitwear and ready-made garment industry to discuss practical ways to buy clothing and scale supplies, and delegates praised the country’s modern factory set up and quality standards. The talks covered how buyers could place regular orders, how to inspect factories, and what support traders need to move goods smoothly across borders. Industry hosts described current strengths in ready-made garments, logistics, and quality control, and they offered to help Afghan importers find reliable suppliers and small factories that can meet specific needs. Both sides explored steps to build trust, such as trial shipments, shared quality checks, and clearer paperwork so that payments and delivery stay simple. Delegation members noted that Bangladeshi pharmaceuticals already sell well in Afghanistan, and they said there is rising demand for textiles and finished garments too. The meeting created a road map for next steps, including trade visits by Bangladesh exporters, joint trade fairs, and technical talks on customs and shipping to cut delays. Bangladesh factory leaders welcomed the chance to show their sample ranges and to discuss fair prices, short lead times and compliance with basic safety rules. The visit also opened the door for partnerships beyond buying and selling: people talked about training programs to help Afghan buyers understand sizing and fabric terms, and about ways to link Bangladesh makers with Afghan distribution channels so products reach stores quickly. Organizers said the discussion included ways to support small and medium makers so they can scale up without losing quality, and suggested pilot orders to test demand before larger contracts are set. To keep momentum, both sides agreed to name contact points and to set simple pilot projects that can be measured. Technical staff from trade bodies promised to draft clear lists of needed documents and to help match buyers to the right factories. Business leaders said that when the first shipments arrive and perform well, confidence will grow and orders could expand into school uniforms, workwear and casual garments. Observers said the visit is a practical step that could help Bangladeshi makers reach new buyers and help Afghan shops find dependable, high quality clothing at fair prices. If both sides follow through, traders expect deeper business ties that lift small manufacturers and help customers find better products. Industry sources added that buyers will watch delivery times and costs closely, and that clear rules and steady supplies can turn trial orders into long-term partnerships that help factories invest in machines, jobs and worker training.
