Chittagong, Apr 4 (bdnews24.com) — The Indian envoy has indicated his preference for low transit fees and cautioned that high fees might hinder bilateral trade.
While he told journalists that India would certainly agree to Bangladesh's decision, Rajeet Mitter also noted that expensive transit might not bring the desired level benefits, especially in the form of bilateral trade.
Bangladesh exports about a tenth of its imports from India. In terms of money Bangladesh exported about $300 million worth of goods to India but imported just over $3 billion worth of goods from the large neighbour in 2009-10 fiscal.
The Indian high commissioner told reporters on Monday at a discussion in Chittagong that in this regard the Bangladesh government's decision would be the final word.
When asked about the recent comments of the prime minister's economic adviser Mashiur Rahman suggesting that India need not pay any user fees for transit according to global trade rules, Mitter pointed out that the government had already designated a committee for the task. "The committee will fix the charge. Their decision will be final."
On Mar 31, Mashiur said that asking for 'extra benefit' from India for transit would not be correct.
The main opposition BNP has been opposing transit ever since the talk started on this issue.
The Chittagong businessmen urged the envoy to ease visa complexities for Bangladeshi businessmen and visitors and remove trade barriers for Bangladeshi products.
Indian businessmen are interested to invest in information technology in Dhaka and Chittagong, Mitter said.
He noted that the 'joint communiqué' of the two heads of government in Jan 2010 would be the cornerstone for all initiatives to strengthen economic relations between the neighbours.
While speaking about the Palatana power plant, Mitter said, "If needed Bangladesh could import power it generates."
The discussion was organised by the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industries.
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