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According to a report by News18 Hindi, Bangladesh’s interim government has acknowledged that it would be economically unwise to ignore cheaper Indian supplies in favor of costlier alternatives, especially amid growing domestic pressure.
India offers cost advantage over Pakistan
According to a report in Bangladeshi newspaper The Daily Star, Bangladesh has decided to import 50,000 tonnes of rice from India at a rate of around $355 per tonne, while simultaneously purchasing the same quantity from Pakistan at a higher price of $395 per tonne.
This price difference translates into a savings of about $40 per tonne over Indian imports. For the entire consignment, the savings amount to around $2 million or around ₹17.9 crore at the prevailing exchange rate, News18 Hindi reports.
Bangladeshi officials acknowledged that sourcing rice from countries like Vietnam would further increase the cost per kilogram, strengthening India’s position as the most economical supplier.
business was kept separate from politics
This development is noteworthy considering the recent deterioration in bilateral relations. Yet India has neither restricted supply nor made any changes to pricing, indicating its intention to keep food security separate from political disagreements. This approach appears to have resonated in Dhaka.
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Bangladesh finance adviser Salehuddin Ahmed said interim chief adviser Muhammad Yunus was actively working to ease tensions with New Delhi. He reiterated that trade decisions will not be driven by political rhetoric.
‘Tensions at historic low, but not beyond repair’
Relations between the two neighbors have been strained in recent months with diplomatic summons, protests outside embassies and sharp exchanges. Some analysts have described the situation as the lowest point since 1971.
However, according to News18 Hindi, Ahmed partially disagreed with this assessment, saying, “Even though from outside it may seem that the situation is very bad, things have not deteriorated to that extent.”
He also hinted that some external elements may fuel anti-India sentiment, which he said is not in line with the national interest of Bangladesh.
Ground realities shape decisions
Overall, the decision to import rice underscores a clear message: While political narratives may fluctuate, economic realities remain decisive.
India remains Bangladesh’s most reliable and affordable option for essential food supplies, ensuring that trade relations remain intact even during diplomatic tensions.
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