Bangladesh aims to triple exports to India by 2011 -trade body

DHAKA, Nov 18 (Reuters) - Bangladesh hopes to triple export volumes to India to more than $1.35 billion over the next two years, a business leader said on Wednesday.

"Now we are more confident to achieve the target as our products are liked more and more by consumers of that country," said Abdul Matlub Ahmad, President of India-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

"Considering the growing demand of our products, we are holding a trade fair for them in Bangladesh in February where a large number of Indian and Bangladeshi companies will exhibit their products," Ahmad told reporters at a news conference.

He said that the Indian customers now found several of its neighbour's products attractive.

"We are expecting a large participation from India as many of Indian companies have trade link with Bangladesh and many have already established joint venture companies here," he said.

He said that main focus would be the consumers of north-eastern states of India who preferred Bangladeshi products including food items, textiles, melamine products and toiletries.

"Negotiations are continuing with India to raise export quotas of ready-made garments to 20 million pieces from 8 million now," Ahmad said.

Bangladeshi manufacturers recently started to export bricks to India, a new item on the export list.

Ready-made garments are the principal export of Bangladesh, which accounts more than 80 percent of the total export earnings of the country.