SS News Desk
Dhaka, July 29, 2025:
British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke and Lutfey Siddiqi, Special Envoy to the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s Interim Government, visited Cupcake Exports today—a soft toy manufacturer exporting to the UK.
The visit aimed to highlight opportunities for export diversification and discuss the challenges Bangladeshi firms face when entering new markets. The delegation toured the production facility and spoke with workers and management about the potential for expanding exports beyond traditional sectors.
The UK Government is supporting Bangladesh through technical assistance to improve the business environment and ease export barriers. “Export diversification is crucial for Bangladesh’s sustainable growth,” said High Commissioner Cooke. “The UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) enables businesses like Cupcake Exports to access the UK market with zero tariffs.”
The UK recently simplified the DCTS rules of origin, making it even easier for Bangladeshi companies to export to the UK. These changes are expected to help Bangladesh move up the value chain, create jobs, and reduce poverty.
The visit underscores ongoing UK-Bangladesh cooperation to boost trade, with a focus on connecting Bangladeshi exporters with UK buyers and enhancing competitiveness through reform and innovation.
Source: British High Commission, Dhaka