Dhaka, Jan. 25 -- Bangladesh's trade deficit with China increased marginally by over 1.0 per cent to US$16.45 billion in the last fiscal year ending on June 30, compared to the same period a year earlier, according to the recently-released data from Bangladesh Bank.

During this period, Bangladesh imported goods worth $17.80 billion while exporting only $1.35 billion, resulting in a significant trade imbalance. Excluding services, the trade deficit stood at $16.28 billion in 2022-23 fiscal year.

China remains Bangladesh's largest trade partner, primarily supplying raw materials and semi-finished goods that are vital for Bangladesh's manufacturing industries. Among these goods ready-made garment (RMG) sector is key, which depends heavily ...