Enhancing imports from Pakistan to Bangladesh with DHL Express

The trade relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh is experiencing a notable upswing, presenting new opportunities for economic collaboration. This positive trajectory offers significant potential for businesses in Bangladesh to diversify their import options and access a wider range of goods.

But what are the import sectors that can effectively cater to the domestic market in Bangladesh?

Key import sectors: Exploring lucrative opportunities

There’s a potential for local businesses to import a variety of goods that will serve the country's diverse market, and several sectors stand out as particularly lucrative for imports from Pakistan:

• Cotton and Textiles: Cotton and textile products constitute a significant portion of Bangladesh's imports from Pakistan. Recent data indicates that out of the US$690 million in total imports from Pakistan, approximately US$431 million was attributed to this sector, highlighting its dominance in the trade relationship¹.
• Machinery and Equipment: The import of machinery and industrial equipment from Pakistan is crucial for Bangladesh's ongoing manufacturing and infrastructure development. Furthermore, this sector is poised for continued growth, with a CAGR of around 3.75% from 2025 to 2029².
• Chemicals and Raw Materials: Bangladeshi industries, including the vital textiles and manufacturing sectors, rely on imports of chemicals and raw materials from Pakistan.

Advantages of importing from Pakistan

Beyond the promising sectors, importing from Pakistan offers several key advantages that can benefit Bangladeshi businesses. When you consider Pakistani suppliers as your trade partners, you can expect these advantages: 

• Competitive pricing: Importing from Pakistan can offer Bangladeshi businesses cost-effective solutions. Additionally, favorable exchange rates and competitive manufacturing costs in Pakistan can translate to lower procurement expenses, potentially increasing profit margins for importers.
• Quality and variety: Pakistani markets provide a diverse selection of quality products, catering to a wide range of industry needs in Bangladesh. This variety allows businesses to source specialized goods and find products that precisely match their requirements.
• Cultural and geographical proximity: The geographical closeness of Pakistan and Bangladesh, coupled with existing cultural ties, fosters smoother trade relationships. What’s more, this proximity can simplify overseas logistics, reduce shipping times, and enhance communication between businesses.

Streamlined import process with DHL Express

To make the process of importing from Pakistan as smooth as possible, DHL Express offers services designed to simplify logistics and ensure efficient delivery. By partnering with DHL Express, your business can navigate international trade with greater ease.

Simplified shipping solutions

DHL Express simplifies the entire shipping process, providing convenient worldwide, door-to-door delivery services that eliminate the need for businesses to coordinate multiple carriers. Plus, DHL Express handles all logistical aspects, including international air transport and final delivery to the importer's location in Bangladesh. 

Customs expertise

Customs procedures can be a hurdle in international trade, but with DHL Express’s expertise in managing customs clearance, the process will become a lot easier. Systems are in place to ensure that all your shipments comply with the import regulations of both Pakistan and Bangladesh. With a reliable logistics partner, you can minimize delays and ensure that goods cross borders efficiently.

Real-time tracking

DHL Express also provides advanced tracking tools that give businesses complete visibility over their import shipments. With real-time information on the status and location of goods, you can gain better control over your supply chain and proactively manage any potential disruptions.

Addressing potential challenges and DHL's solutions

While importing from Pakistan presents significant opportunities, businesses may encounter certain challenges. However, DHL Express offers solutions to mitigate these potential hurdles and ensure a smooth import process.

Logistical hurdles

International shipping can sometimes be affected by transportation delays due to different reasons, including inclement weather, traffic congestion, or unforeseen disruptions. DHL Express mitigates these issues through its extensive global network, which connects people in over 220 countries and territories worldwide. With more than 600,000 employees, DHL Express delivers integrated and tailored solutions for managing and transporting goods, ensuring efficient and timely delivery.

Regulatory compliance

International trade involves navigating a complex web of regulations. In Bangladesh, importing goods requires a set of specific documents. Some of the import documents required include a letter of credit authorization form, a bill of lading or airway bill, a commercial invoice or packing list, and a certificate of origin. 

Furthermore, depending on the specific products in your shipment, additional certifications or permits related to health, safety, or other standards may be necessary. Calculating import duties and taxes can also be complicated, varying based on product classification and trade agreements. However, DHL Express's expertise helps businesses adhere to all necessary protocols, minimizing the risk of non-compliance and associated penalties.

Risk management

During transit, goods may face various hazards. Accidents, such as traffic collisions, train derailments, or shipwrecks, can lead to damage or total loss of cargo. Furthermore, improper loading, unloading, or inadequate storage can result in preventable damage to goods during their journey.

Beyond physical risks, political and economic instability can pose challenges. As the 2022-2023 ICS Maritime Barometer Report indicates, political conflicts, wars, or civil unrest can disrupt trade routes and access to ports3. 

Unfortunately, the threat of cargo theft and piracy also remains a reality. Data from Statista shows that there were 116 reported pirate attacks against ships worldwide in 2024, highlighting the continued risk of loss, particularly in certain high-risk areas4. 

However, DHL Express can address these risks and provide businesses with greater confidence in their import operations.

DHL Express offers shipping insurance to protect businesses from financial losses resulting from the loss or damage of goods during overseas transportation. This optional add-on service goes beyond DHL's standard liability coverage, offering the following benefits for businesses in Bangladesh:

• Peace of mind: With DHL Express’s shipping insurance, you can have peace of mind knowing that your packages are protected while in international transit and that you won't be held financially responsible for any damage or loss.
• Fast claims processing: In the event of a loss or damage, DHL Express offers a fast and efficient insurance claims process, which can help your business quickly recover its losses and avoid any unnecessary delays for service recovery.
• Affordable rates: DHL Express also offers competitive rates for shipping insurance, making it an affordable option for businesses of all sizes. The shipping insurance is also an integrated feature within the all-in-one MyDHL+ tracking platform, making it easy for business owners to keep tabs on all of their shipments simultaneously.

Empowering your business with DHL Express

Importing from Pakistan offers Bangladeshi businesses a strategic advantage, providing access to valuable resources and fostering economic growth. DHL Express plays a vital role in making this process efficient and reliable. By simplifying shipping solutions, providing customs expertise, and offering real-time tracking, DHL Express empowers businesses to navigate the complexities of international trade with confidence.

If you want to enjoy the benefits of Pakistan while experiencing seamless logistics, open a DHL Express business account today. Our team is ready to provide personalized shipping solutions tailored to your specific needs.