Dhaka, Jan 4 (UNB) - The trade volume between Bangladesh and Germany surpassed Euro 2.1 billion (equivalent to US$ 3.15 billion) in the first eleven months of 2009.

The trade volume between the two countries increased by 16% during this period, according to the German Federal Bureau of Statistics.

Welcoming the development German Ambassador Holger Michael said, “German and Bangladesh relations grow from strength to strength. Germany is already the second largest export market for Bangladesh and an important partner in its trade based development strategy. We firmly believe that Bangladesh is a growth trajectory. German business and industry has a lot to offer also to support this development and to promote the diversification of BGD export industries.”

More than 90% of the exports from Bangladesh to Germany are readymade garments. With about 30 ships worth Euro 250 million on order by German ship-owners, the ship building sector is expected to prominently figure in the export statistics of Bangladesh in the years to come, said a press release of German embassy.

German exports to Bangladesh increased by 8% from January to November, 2009 over the corresponding period of the previous year. German companies mainly sell machinery, chemicals and electric equipment to Bangladesh market, the release added.

Md Saiful Islam, President of Bangladesh-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BGCCI) said,“ With a view to positive perspectives for the expansion of trade and investment relations between Germany and Bangladesh BGCCI is planning to organize the ‘German Trade Show II’ in 2011.”