Bangladesh–Malta relations

Bangladesh–Malta relations are the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Malta. Both countries are members of the Commonwealth of Nations and collaborate in various international forums.^[1][2]

Diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Malta were formally established in 1972. In July 2019, the two countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on bilateral consultations, aimed at institutionalizing periodic dialogues between the foreign ministries.^[3] Under the agreement, the two nations committed to holding meetings every two years, alternating between Dhaka and Valletta, to strengthen cooperation and mutual understanding in various sectors.^[4]

Economic relations between Bangladesh and Malta are modest but gradually expanding. Both countries have expressed interest in enhancing bilateral trade and investment, particularly in sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, construction, and skilled labor migration.^[5][6] During the 2019 diplomatic visit, both sides emphasized cooperation in labor migration, tourism, and infrastructure development. Bangladesh also expressed interest in benefiting from Malta’s expertise in financial management and ship registration sectors where Malta has global recognition.^[7]

Moreover, both countries have shown a keen interest in exploring collaboration in the blue economy, considering Malta’s maritime strengths and Bangladesh’s growing shipbuilding industry. The two nations also discussed the potential for expanding pharmaceutical exports from Bangladesh, leveraging Malta's position within the European Union.^[7][8]

To facilitate these engagements, Bangladesh maintains a diplomatic mission in Valletta to promote bilateral economic interests and provide consular services. Conversely, Malta operates two honorary consulates in Bangladesh one in Dhaka and another in Chattogram to strengthen ties and support Maltese nationals and businesses operating in the region.^[9][10]

In 2023, Bangladesh exported approximately USD $3.54 million worth of goods to Malta, showing a significant increase from USD 336,000 in 2018 an annualized growth rate of 60.2% over five years. The main export items from Bangladesh included non-knit men's suits (USD 472,000), knit T-shirts (USD 458,000), and non-knit women's suits (USD 416,000).^[11]

On the other hand, Bangladesh imported around USD $2.14 million worth of goods from Malta in 2023, a decline from USD $6.51 million in 2018. Although the trade balance has traditionally favored Malta, the volume of trade remains relatively limited overall.^[12]

Both countries continue to explore opportunities for trade diversification and collaboration through trade fairs, business delegations, and diplomatic engagements.^[13]

In 2019, the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies (MEDAC) in Malta and Bangladesh’s Foreign Service Academy signed a memorandum of understanding to promote academic cooperation and training in international diplomacy.^[3] This partnership aims to build capacity among Bangladeshi diplomats and strengthen people-to-people ties between the two countries.^[3]