Bangladesh Exports to Brazil

Md. Joynal Abdin
Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Trade & Investment Bangladesh (T&IB)
Executive Director, Online Training Academy (OTA)
Secretary General, Brazil Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BBCCI)

Bangladesh and Brazil have been forging a dynamic new trade relationship as both nations seek to diversify their markets. In recent years, Bangladesh’s exports to Brazil have climbed significantly reaching about $187 million in the 2024–25 fiscal year, a 26% jump from $147 million in 2023–24[1]. This marks a dramatic rise from just $109 million in 2021–22[2], making Brazil one of Bangladesh’s fastest-growing export destinations. Yet a large trade imbalance remains: Brazil’s exports to Bangladesh (mostly commodities like sugar, cotton, and soybeans) exceeded $2.6 billion in 2023–24[3], far dwarfing Bangladesh’s exports to Brazil. Recognizing the potential to narrow this gap, both countries are ramping up economic engagement highlighted by initiatives like the first-ever “Made in Bangladesh” trade expo in São Paulo in 2025. With Brazil projected to become the world’s 8th largest economy by 2026[4], Bangladeshi businesses see an attractive frontier market, while Brazilian importers are discovering a “new economic giant” in South Asia[5]. This article explores the major segments of Bangladesh’s exports to Brazil – identifying the top ten export items and provides an in-depth outlook on their current performance, future expansion possibilities, challenges, and recommendations for both exporters and importers in 2024 and beyond.

A Growing Bilateral Trade Relationship

Bangladesh’s turn towards Brazil is a strategic shift driven by global trade dynamics. Traditionally, Bangladeshi exports have been concentrated in North America and Europe, but recent tariff pressures in the US have pushed Dhaka to explore alternative markets like Brazil[6]. Brazil, as Latin America’s largest economy, offers a vast consumer base and robust demand, making it a promising outlet for Bangladesh’s export industries. Diplomatic ties have accordingly strengthened: Brazil’s ambassador to Bangladesh hailed the country as a “new economic giant in South Asia” and expressed keenness to deepen trade ties[5]. In June 2025, the Brazil-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BBCCI) hosted a high-profile expo in São Paulo to showcase Bangladeshi products to Latin American buyers[7]. Officials on both sides emphasize that turning friendly relations into a “mutually beneficial economic partnership” is the next goal[8]. Still, challenges persist notably high tariffs and long shipping distances but the momentum for cooperation is clearly building. As Bangladesh graduates from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026, its pursuit of new markets like Brazil is not just opportunistic but necessary for sustained export growth[9].

Top Exports from Bangladesh to Brazil

Despite the long distance between them, Bangladesh exports a range of goods to Brazil, with apparel dominating by far. Readymade garments account for the lion’s share of exports, but other sectors from jute to pharmaceuticals are also finding footing. Below, we examine the top ten export items (or categories) that Bangladesh currently ships to Brazil, describing each sector’s performance, prospects, and steps to boost future exports.

Ready-Made Garments (RMG)

Clothing is by far Bangladesh’s number one export to Brazil, reflecting Bangladesh’s strength as the world’s second-largest apparel exporter. Key apparel products include knitwear and woven garments such as jerseys, pullovers, T-shirts, pants, shirts, suits, and jackets[10]. In 2022–23, Bangladesh’s apparel exports to Brazil surged by nearly 60% year-on-year[10], reaching about $150 million in textile and clothing shipments[11]. This growth has made Brazil one of the fastest-growing new markets for Bangladeshi garments. Current performance remains robust even with a slight dip in 2023–24, apparel still constitutes the bulk of the $187 million exported to Brazil in FY2024–25[12]. The future expansion potential is significant: Brazil imported $5.9 billion in textiles and apparel in 2022[11], meaning Bangladesh (with roughly $150 million of that) still holds a modest share.

As Brazilian consumers seek quality clothing at competitive prices, Bangladesh’s efficient garment industry is well positioned to capture more market share. To export more, Bangladeshi manufacturers should continue to diversify their product range (e.g. beyond basic cotton T-shirts into higher-value apparel) and improve branding aimed at Brazilian retailers. Trade experts also urge pursuing a free trade agreement or reduced tariffs with Mercosur/Brazil to overcome the steep 35% import duties on apparel[13] that currently limit price competitiveness. With an FTA and proactive marketing – such as participation in Brazilian fashion expos – Bangladesh’s apparel exports to Brazil could expand markedly, leveraging the country’s renowned mix of low cost and decent quality to entice Brazilian importers.

Jute and Jute Products

Jute, often called “golden fiber,” is an iconic Bangladeshi export that is gaining renewed global interest as an eco-friendly material. Bangladesh is one of the world’s top producers of jute and manufactures a variety of jute products from raw jute fiber and yarn to sacks, bags, mats, and handicrafts. At present, jute goods are a smaller component of Bangladesh’s exports to Brazil, especially compared to apparel. (Major markets for Bangladeshi jute have traditionally been Turkey, India, and some European countries.) However, jute has strong future potential in Brazil. As a major agricultural economy, Brazil imports sacks and packaging materials, and there is growing interest in sustainable alternatives to plastic. Bangladeshi jute bags and twine being biodegradable and sturdy could find a niche for packaging coffee, cocoa, sugar, and other Brazilian commodities.

Additionally, jute-based lifestyle products (like eco-friendly shopping bags or home décor items) might appeal to environmentally conscious Brazilian consumers. To capitalize on this, Bangladeshi exporters need to promote jute’s benefits and versatility to Brazilian businesses and consumers. Participating in trade fairs in Brazil with jute goods on display, and working with Brazilian distributors in the packaging industry, can raise awareness. Government support in branding Bangladeshi jute as a “green” product line will also help. As officials have noted, diversifying the export basket with jute goods is a smart way to narrow the trade gap with Brazil[14]. With the right marketing and possibly preferential tariff consideration for natural fiber products, Bangladesh could substantially increase its jute product exports to Brazil in the coming years.

Leather and Footwear

Leather and leather goods including footwear – are another promising export sector for Bangladesh. The country has a long tradition of leather production and has in recent decades become a significant exporter of leather shoes, bags, belts, and accessories worldwide[15]. Bangladeshi leather footwear, in particular, is known for its competitive pricing and decent quality, benefiting from abundant raw hides and a growing base of tanneries and factories. However, in the Brazil market, leather goods currently play a relatively minor role. One reason is that Brazil itself has a well-developed leather and footwear industry (Brazil is a major leather producer and traditionally a footwear exporter), which means higher barriers for foreign competitors. Moreover, Brazilian import tariffs on leather products can be substantial, adding to cost. Despite these challenges, there is room for Bangladesh to expand in niche areas.

For example, Bangladesh could target segments where Brazil’s domestic production doesn’t fully meet demand such as low-cost mass-market shoes or specialty leather goods. Current export performance to Brazil in this category is modest (no single leather item is among the very top export earners yet), but there have been initial shipments of Bangladeshi footwear to Brazil and interest is growing. Future expansion will depend on meeting Brazilian standards for quality and safety Bangladeshi tanneries must ensure environmental compliance, and manufacturers should follow Brazilian sizing and style preferences. Forming partnerships with Brazilian importers or brands could help Bangladeshi companies better navigate the market. To export more, experts suggest the Bangladeshi government work on reducing trade barriers possibly negotiating lower duties or an FTA that covers leather goods[9]. Additionally, participating in Brazilian trade shows (for example, fairs for footwear and leatherwear) would allow Bangladeshi firms to showcase their products directly. With supportive policy and persistent marketing, leather goods could become a larger contributor to Bangladesh–Brazil trade, complementing the dominance of garments.

Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceuticals have emerged as a bright spot in Bangladesh’s export portfolio in recent years. Bangladesh’s pharmaceutical industry now manufactures a wide range of generic medicines, meeting 97% of domestic demand and exporting to over 90 countries[16]. High-quality drug production at affordable prices gives Bangladeshi pharma companies an edge in many developing markets. When it comes to Brazil, however, pharmaceutical exports are still in their infancy. Brazil’s pharmaceutical market is heavily regulated by its health authority (ANVISA), and gaining entry requires strict compliance and product registration. Currently, Bangladesh’s direct pharmaceutical exports to Brazil remain limited, comprising only a small fraction of total exports. Nonetheless, there is strong interest in tapping this huge market. Some leading Bangladeshi pharma firms have been seeking regulatory approvals to enter Brazil for instance, obtaining ANVISA certification for certain generic drugs – recognizing that Brazil (with over 210 million people) has one of the largest medicine markets in the world. The future expansion possibilities are significant: Bangladesh could supply Brazil with cost-effective generic medicines for common diseases, as well as APIs (active pharmaceutical ingredients) if approved. Bangladeshi medicines are often considerably cheaper than those made in Western countries, which could appeal to Brazil’s public health system and private pharmacies if quality is assured.

To export more pharmaceuticals, Bangladeshi companies and regulators must work closely to overcome the entry barriers. This includes investing in quality standards to meet Brazilian requirements, engaging in clinical tests or documentation as needed for approval, and possibly entering joint ventures or licensing agreements with Brazilian pharma distributors. The government can assist by pursuing memoranda of understanding on pharmaceutical regulation or fast-track approval processes as part of broader trade talks. Over time, as confidence builds in Bangladeshi medicine (some firms have already gained US FDA and EU approvals, indicating high standards), we can expect pharmaceuticals to become a notable component of Bangladesh’s exports to Brazil. It will require patience and adherence to compliance, but the reward is a diversified export market beyond the traditional RMG focus.

Plastics Products

Bangladesh’s plastic goods industry is a rising sector that has started to look beyond domestic markets. The country produces a variety of plastic products from packaging materials and household utensils to garments accessories (hangers, buttons) and toys. According to industry data, Bangladesh’s global exports of plastics stood at around $103 million in 2023 and are projected to reach $117 million by 2028[17], reflecting steady growth. In exports to Brazil, plastic products so far constitute a relatively small segment. For example, in 2018 Bangladesh exported only about $0.86 million worth of plastics to Brazil[18], and while the figures have likely grown since then, plastics remain a minor export item compared to apparel. That said, the sector holds future potential in the Brazilian market. Brazil imports significant volumes of plastic goods, and Bangladeshi manufacturers could supply items like low-cost plastic housewares, packaging films, and consumer goods where they have a cost advantage. Some Bangladeshi companies are already experienced in exporting plastic shopping bags or film wraps to Europe expertise that could be leveraged for Latin America with proper market research.

To expand these exports, Bangladeshi firms will need to ensure their products meet Brazilian quality and safety standards (for instance, food-grade plastics must comply with health regulations, and children’s toys with safety norms). Establishing links with Brazilian importers or large retailers would be key, as is showcasing samples at trade exhibitions. The Bangladesh Plastic Goods Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BPGMEA) has noted the huge domestic scale of plastic production (around Tk 45,000 crore worth produced annually for domestic sale)[19], implying there is capacity to export more if market access improves[19]. One strategic move could be targeting niches like packaging for Brazil’s agro-exports or manufacturing components (e.g., plastic parts) for Brazilian industries. Government support in the form of export incentives and negotiating tariff relief (some plastic items face moderate tariffs) would also help competitiveness.

In summary, while plastics are not yet a top earner in Bangladesh–Brazil trade, they represent a diversification opportunity. With incremental efforts in compliance and marketing, plastic products could claim a larger share of the export pie, benefiting both Bangladeshi producers and Brazilian consumers with affordable goods.

Ceramic Tableware and Home Décor

Bangladesh has quietly become a noteworthy exporter of ceramic products especially tableware (plates, mugs, bowls) and tiles in the last decade. Several Bangladeshi ceramic manufacturers now supply high-quality porcelain and bone china tableware to markets like the EU and North America, taking advantage of skilled labor and locally sourced raw materials. Ceramics are identified as a sector with great potential by Bangladesh’s export authorities[20]. In 2023, Bangladesh’s global ceramic product exports were about $50 million[21], and the industry aims to grow that further. In the context of Brazil, ceramic exports are still at a nascent stage for instance, back in 2018, Bangladesh’s ceramic exports to Brazil were only around $0.2 million[22]. Brazilian importers have not yet tapped much into Bangladeshi ceramics, possibly due to distance and competition from other suppliers. However, there are promising signs: Bangladesh’s ceramics have earned a reputation for decent quality at lower prices than European or Japanese brands, which could attract Brazilian buyers (from restaurant chains, hospitality industry, or retail).

Additionally, Bangladeshi producers can offer custom designs, which might appeal to niche home décor markets. Future expansion possibilities hinge on marketing and trade connectivity. If shipping logistics improve and Bangladeshi companies partner with distributors in Brazil, we could see more “Made in Bangladesh” dinnerware on Brazilian tables. To facilitate this, Bangladesh can send trade missions or participate in international housewares fairs in São Paulo or Rio to demonstrate product ranges. Ensuring that products meet Brazilian standards (for example, ceramics that are lead-free and microwave-safe as per regulations) is crucial for market entry. The government could also negotiate mutual recognition of quality standards or encourage Brazilian importers through diplomatic channels. As Bangladesh’s ceramic industry grows, it’s already looking to new markets – and Brazil, with its large population and vibrant restaurant sector, is a logical target. In time, ceramics and home décor items might join the list of notable exports, providing Bangladeshi entrepreneurs and Brazilian consumers alike with new opportunities for trade and variety[20].

Home Textiles and Fabrics

Beyond apparel, Bangladesh is a major producer and exporter of home textiles items like bed linens, bedsheets, towels, curtains, and upholstery fabrics. These products fall under a different category than clothing but leverage the same strengths of Bangladesh’s textile sector: plentiful cotton fabric production and skilled sewing/finishing. Globally, Bangladesh is among the top exporters of cotton bed sheets and terry towels, especially to Europe. In Brazil, the market for home textiles is competitive, with domestic textile mills and imports from countries like China. Bangladesh’s exports of home textiles to Brazil are currently limited, but there is room to grow. For instance, Brazilian hotels or hospitals could source bed linens and towels from Bangladesh at competitive prices. Likewise, Brazilian retailers might find Bangladesh a good source for quality sheets or quilts in large quantities. One challenge is that Brazilian import tariffs on textiles (similar to apparel) are quite high, which discourages sourcing from non-Mercosur countries. Nonetheless, future expansion is possible if Bangladesh differentiates its products – perhaps offering higher thread-count cotton sheets or organic cotton textiles that appeal to an upscale segment.

To export more home textiles and fabrics, Bangladeshi mills and exporters should focus on quality, design, and compliance. Adapting designs to Brazilian tastes (in terms of color patterns or sizes – for example, bed sizes in Brazil might differ from those in Europe) can make products more marketable. Building relationships with Brazilian home décor chains or wholesalers is also key; this might involve sending samples or even establishing a local sales office through a partner. On the policy side, pursuit of a trade agreement could dramatically improve competitiveness by cutting the steep import duties on textile goods. In the interim, Bangladeshi exporters might use bonded warehouses or regional hubs to consolidate shipments to Brazil more cost-effectively. If these steps are taken, Bangladesh could begin to capture a share of Brazil’s sizeable home textile market, adding a new dimension to the bilateral trade beyond garments. It’s a slower burn opportunity, but one that aligns with Bangladesh’s strategy to diversify export products.

Handicrafts and Cottage Industry Products

Handicrafts represent the creative and cultural side of Bangladesh’s exports a collection of items produced by artisans and small enterprises, often using indigenous materials. This category can include handmade pottery, traditional embroidered textiles (like Nakshi Kantha quilts), jute and cane craft products, brass and wooden decoratives, and other artisanal goods. Bangladesh exports handicrafts to various markets on a modest scale, typically catering to niche boutiques and world shops. In the Brazil context, handicrafts have not yet featured prominently in trade statistics (they are a small fraction of exports), but they garnered attention during the “Made in Bangladesh” Expo in São Paulo in 2025, where handicrafts were highlighted as key products Bangladesh can offer[7]. For Brazilian importers and consumers, Bangladeshi handicrafts could be appealing due to their authenticity and exotic appeal for example, jute wall hangings or hand-carved wooden items could attract those who appreciate global crafts. The current performance is mostly limited to one-off shipments or diaspora demand, but future expansion is conceivable as cultural exchange grows. Brazil itself has rich handicraft traditions, but Bangladeshi products could find a niche in categories like jute-made items (since jute is less common in Brazil) or South Asian textile art.

To export more handicrafts, Bangladesh should focus on marketing and quality consistency. Small producers often face hurdles in scaling up and meeting international buyer requirements (timely delivery, uniform quality). Initiatives could be taken to organize artisans under cooperatives or support them via export facilitation schemes. The government and trade bodies might also invite Brazilian buyers on tours of craft villages in Bangladesh to spark interest. Additionally, e-commerce can play a role: Bangladeshi handicrafts could be sold directly to Brazilian consumers through online marketplaces if logistics are sorted out. Language and awareness are challenges – promotional materials in Portuguese, telling the story of the products, would help connect with customers. While handicrafts will likely remain a smaller segment compared to industrial goods, they carry symbolic value and can strengthen people-to-people connections. For Bangladeshi cottage industry entrepreneurs, even a modest uptick in Brazilian orders could be transformative, and for Brazil’s consumers, it means more diverse choices in home décor and gifts. In sum, handicrafts add a meaningful thread to the tapestry of Bangladesh–Brazil trade, embodying culture alongside commerce.

Light Engineering and Electronics

Bangladesh’s export ambitions are no longer confined to traditional sectors the country is gradually making inroads into light engineering, machinery, and electronics. This includes products such as bicycles and bicycle parts, small machinery or tools, electrical cables and appliances, and even consumer electronics like refrigerators and televisions from emerging Bangladeshi brands. For example, Bangladesh is one of the top exporters of bicycles to the European Union, leveraging cost-effective manufacturing. In terms of exports to Brazil, this is currently an emerging area rather than an established one. So far, light engineering goods have not figured prominently in Bangladesh’s shipments to Brazil, but there are future opportunities worth noting. Brazil imports a vast array of machinery and components for its industries, and if Bangladeshi manufacturers can meet the required specifications, they could become alternative suppliers for certain parts or equipment. One specific item identified by trade analysts is automotive wiring harnesses (ignition wiring sets) Bangladesh has some capability in producing these, and Brazil’s global import of such parts is significant (over $300 million)[23].

Additionally, Bangladeshi electrical cable producers or electronics firms could explore the Brazilian market, especially if they partner with Brazilian companies. The current challenge is that these products require adherence to technical standards and certifications; entering a developed industrial market like Brazil means meeting safety codes (for electronics) and performance standards (for machinery). Nonetheless, the Bangladesh government has highlighted electronics and engineering as priority sectors and is encouraging joint ventures. In fact, Bangladeshi officials at the BBCCI expo invited Brazilian businesses to consider joint manufacturing ventures producing cost-effective goods in Bangladesh (like electronics) that could even be exported back to markets like Brazil[24]. From the Brazilian importer’s perspective, sourcing light engineering goods from Bangladesh might not have been on the radar yet, but as Bangladeshi products prove themselves in other markets, confidence can grow.

To boost exports in this category, a multi-faceted approach is needed: investment in technology transfer (so that Bangladeshi factories can meet international specs), obtaining international certifications (ISO, etc.), and matchmaking between Bangladeshi manufacturers and Brazilian importers in specific sub-sectors (bicycles, automotive parts, etc.). Government-level talks could explore reducing tariffs on such items or including them in any future trade deal. Over time, success in light engineering and electronics would mark a significant upgrading of Bangladesh’s export basket to Brazil from primarily garments to higher-value manufactured products signaling a maturing trade relationship.

Agro-Food and Fisheries Products

While not among the top export earners yet, Bangladesh’s agricultural and food products have potential in the Brazilian market, especially to serve niche demands. Bangladesh is an exporter of certain agro-food items like tea, fish (particularly shrimp and crab), spices, dry foods, and processed snacks, often catering to expatriate communities abroad. Currently, Brazil imports very little of these from Bangladesh Brazil’s food imports are dominated by grains, oils, and commodities from regional neighbors or large producers. However, there are a few areas to watch. One is frozen seafood: Bangladesh’s black tiger shrimp and freshwater prawns are delicacies in Europe and Asia, and could find a place in Brazil’s high-end hospitality sector if marketed well. Brazil has its own seafood industry, but specialty items (like Hilsa fish, a prized South Asian fish) could be introduced to Brazilian consumers via South Asian restaurants or ethnic grocery stores. Another area is tea – Bangladesh grows black tea (somewhat similar to Assam tea). While not as famous globally as Indian or Sri Lankan tea, Bangladeshi tea could appeal to niche buyers, including the Bangladeshi diaspora in Brazil. Likewise, Bangladeshi spices (such as turmeric and chili) or ready-made snacks might cater to ethnic market segments. Future expansion of agro-food exports will likely be gradual and driven by community-level demand or specialty importers.

To export more, Bangladesh must ensure that food products meet Brazilian sanitary and phytosanitary standards. For instance, obtaining necessary health certificates and abiding by Brazil’s food import regulations is paramount. Establishing cold chain logistics for items like frozen fish is also necessary given the long transit times. The government can facilitate by negotiating on sanitary requirements and possibly promoting Bangladeshi food at cultural festivals in Brazil. On the private side, entrepreneurs could open Bangladeshi restaurants or grocery outlets in Brazilian cities, indirectly boosting import of ingredients from Bangladesh. Additionally, Brazil’s diverse population includes communities from Asia and the Middle East who might enjoy Bangladeshi products if they become available. Overall, agro-food exports will not rival garments in volume any time soon, but they are an important element for a well-rounded trade relationship. They help support Bangladesh’s farmers and fishermen by finding new markets, and give Brazilian consumers a taste of Bangladeshi flavors – enriching the cultural ties alongside economic exchange.

Brazil–Bangladesh Trade Growth Forecast: What to Expect by 2030

Challenges in Expanding Exports to Brazil

Despite the optimistic growth in Bangladesh’s exports to Brazil, several challenges stand in the way of scaling up volumes and diversifying the export mix. High tariffs and market access barriers are perhaps the biggest hurdles. Brazil (as part of Mercosur) imposes substantial import duties on many goods for example, a uniform 35% tariff on apparel products[13], as evidenced by Bangladesh’s clothing exports facing this steep rate. Such tariffs make Bangladeshi goods pricier and less competitive in Brazil compared to duty-free regional suppliers. Moreover, Bangladesh currently enjoys no preferential trade agreement with Brazil[25][26], meaning its exporters have to contend with full MFN tariffs on virtually all items. Beyond tariffs, there are non-tariff barriers and regulatory challenges. Brazilian standards can be rigorous for instance, pharmaceutical imports need ANVISA approval, agricultural products must pass strict sanitary checks, and consumer goods often require labeling in Portuguese and compliance with local safety norms. Navigating this regulatory environment is tough for Bangladeshi companies not familiar with Latin American requirements.

Logistics is another concern: the geographic distance is vast, with no direct shipping routes between Bangladesh and Brazil. Shipping goods involves transshipment (often via Singapore or South Africa) which increases transit time (easily over a month or more by sea) and costs. Longer transit also means higher inventory carrying costs and potential risk of goods damage (especially for perishables). Lack of direct flight connections makes business travel and communication less convenient as well. All these logistical factors can deter small and medium exporters in Bangladesh from venturing into the Brazilian market.

Additionally, there is a knowledge and network gap. Until recently, Latin America in general was unfamiliar terrain for Bangladeshi exporters, who traditionally focused on West, Central, and East Asia, Europe, and North America. Building connections in Brazil requires overcoming language barriers (Portuguese) and cultural differences in business practices. Bangladeshi firms often lack on-the-ground representation in Brazil, and Brazilian importers may have little exposure to Bangladeshi brands or suppliers. This can breed caution and make it harder to establish trust and contracts.

Competition is another challenge. In many of these sectors, Bangladesh faces strong competitors either from within Brazil or other exporting countries. For example, in apparel, China, Vietnam, and others already supply Brazil; in footwear, Brazil has its own large manufacturers; in textiles and home goods, countries like India or Pakistan might vie for market share. Without a unique value proposition, breaking into these markets can be difficult.

Finally, Bangladesh’s impending graduation from LDC status in 2026 could introduce new challenges. While Brazil currently doesn’t grant special LDC trade preferences widely (unlike the EU’s EBA scheme, for instance), Bangladesh’s changing status could still impact any concessional treatments or development cooperation aspects of trade. As one Bangladeshi business leader pointed out, higher tariffs after LDC graduation globally mean Bangladesh “should pursue FTAs with major markets, including Brazil, to sustain export growth”[9]. Thus, negotiating trade terms becomes even more pressing.

In summary, the challenges range from structural (tariffs, distance) to informational (market know-how) and competitive dynamics. Overcoming these hurdles will require concerted efforts by both government and the private sector, as well as support from Brazilian counterparts to facilitate smoother access.

Recommendations and Way Forward

To unlock the full potential of Bangladesh–Brazil trade, stakeholders must address the above challenges through strategic initiatives. Policy-level engagement is critical. The Bangladeshi government should prioritize negotiating a trade agreement or tariff concessions with Brazil (or Mercosur). Even a limited Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) focusing on key Bangladeshi exports could yield dividends. Given Brazil’s interest in Bangladesh as a growing market too, there have been positive signals for instance, Brazilian officials have expressed willingness to discuss easing tariff barriers to boost bilateral trade[27][28]. Accelerating these discussions toward a concrete FTA would be a game-changer, slashing duties (like that onerous 35% on garments) and making Bangladeshi goods far more competitive. In parallel, Bangladesh can deepen diplomatic and economic ties with Mercosur as a bloc, leveraging the fact that Brazil in 2025 overtook Canada in GDP size and is keen on new partnerships[6]. Aligning with such large emerging economies through formal agreements will smooth the path for exporters.

Another recommendation is to enhance trade facilitation and awareness. The success of the “Made in Bangladesh” Expo in São Paulo in 2025 should be followed up by regular events – trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and cultural expos in major Brazilian cities. Such platforms allow Bangladeshi exporters to directly network with Brazilian importers, showcase their products, and understand market feedback. The BBCCI (Brazil-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry) can be instrumental in this, possibly establishing a permanent trade center or showroom in Brazil (an idea even floated by Bangladesh’s ambassador)[29]. This would ensure Bangladeshi products have year-round visibility. Additionally, forming a joint business council or working group with members from both countries can continuously identify problems (e.g. customs delays, certification issues) and resolve them.

Improving logistics is also essential. While the distance cannot be shortened, efficiency can be improved. Bangladesh could explore direct container shipping routes to Brazil’s ports if volume justifies it, or at least secure better terms with global shipping lines (perhaps via government shipping agreements). Exploring the feasibility of transiting goods through intermediary hubs (like South Africa or the Middle East) that expedite rather than delay shipments could help. On the air front, initiating direct cargo flights (even chartered) for high-value, time-sensitive goods could be considered if demand grows – for example, shipping pharmaceuticals or fast-fashion items by air to Brazil. Governments might facilitate this by agreements allowing national carriers or incentives for logistics companies to operate on this route.

From the exporters’ perspective, there are several steps to take. First, they must invest in understanding the Brazilian market – hiring Portuguese-speaking staff, studying consumer preferences, and being prepared to adapt products (whether it’s labeling requirements or style/design tweaks for local tastes). For instance, apparel exporters could research Brazilian fashion trends and climate needs, while food exporters should adapt packaging to Portuguese and meet Brazil’s ingredient standards. Building local partnerships is extremely valuable: Bangladeshi companies could appoint Brazilian agents or team up with Brazilian firms as distributors. Joint ventures, as emphasized during the expo, could be a win-win: Brazilian investors can bring in market knowledge and capital, while Bangladesh offers competitive production. Such partnerships might produce goods in Bangladesh for export to Brazil (taking advantage of Bangladesh’s lower costs)[24], essentially integrating supply chains between the two. Exporters should also leverage the Bangladeshi diaspora in Brazil – though small, the 7,000–8,000 Bangladeshis living in Brazil[30] can act as grassroots ambassadors, opening grocery stores, restaurants or trading companies that import from Bangladesh.

On the Brazilian side, importers and businesses should broaden their sourcing horizons. Thus far, many Brazilian importers default to suppliers in China, India, or nearby countries. Proactively seeking out Bangladeshi suppliers for instance via online platforms or trade missions could yield new opportunities for cost savings and variety. Brazilian industry associations could coordinate delegations to visit Bangladesh’s export processing zones or factories, similar to how Western buyers regularly visit. This would demystify Bangladeshi industries and build confidence in quality and compliance. Brazil could also consider establishing a trade office or representative in Dhaka to facilitate matchmaking and provide on-ground assistance, signaling commitment to growing the partnership.

Finally, government support in Bangladesh for exporters will remain crucial. This can come as export incentives (like cash incentives already given in sectors such as jute or leather), financing support for SMEs to attend foreign fairs, and training programs on export standards. With Bangladesh’s export engine historically focused on the West, specific training on Latin American regulatory standards can fill knowledge gaps. For example, workshops on how to obtain certifications for Brazil or how to handle Portuguese documentation would empower more businesses to attempt entry into Brazil.

In conclusion, Bangladesh’s export journey to Brazil is still in its early chapters, but the trajectory is clearly upward. The complementary nature of the trade Bangladesh as a exporter of manufactured goods and Brazil as a supplier of commodities sets a foundation for mutual benefit[31][32]. By addressing the current challenges through targeted policies and active engagement, Bangladesh can significantly boost its export volumes and diversify its product range in Brazil. This will not only help narrow the trade gap but also bind the two economies closer. For exporters and importers on both sides, the message is to be proactive and collaborative: the opportunities are there, from apparel to pharmaceuticals to new niches, if one is willing to invest in building the bridge. As Brazil’s economy continues to expand and Bangladesh’s industrial capacity grows, their trade relationship – once negligible – could become a model of South-South commerce, driven by innovation, entrepreneurship, and a shared vision of prosperity. The year 2024 and beyond may well witness this partnership reaching “greater heights”, as both Dhaka and Brasília aspire to elevate bilateral trade to its full potential[33].

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [9] [10] [11] [12] [14] [30] [33] Bangladesh’s export to Brazil up 26% in FY25 | The Business Standard