Paul Thoppil, Canada’s Indo-Pacific Trade Representative, is set to arrive in Bangladesh on Saturday evening for a four-day official visit aimed at deepening bilateral trade, investment, and diplomatic ties.

Thoppil will be accompanied by a Canadian business delegation and will begin engagements on Sunday. During his stay, he will meet key members of Bangladesh’s interim government, prominent private sector leaders, and various stakeholders to discuss Canada’s growing role in the region and explore opportunities for expanded cooperation.

His visit comes at a critical time as Bangladesh moves forward with democratic reforms and prepares for upcoming national elections. Thoppil is expected to reiterate Canada’s support for a free, fair, and transparent democratic process in the country.

As part of Canada’s broader Indo-Pacific Strategy, Thoppil’s mission includes strengthening economic relations with countries like Bangladesh—one of Canada’s largest trading partners in South Asia. The two countries already enjoy a robust trade relationship: Canada exports wheat, pulses, cereals, and machinery to Bangladesh while importing significant volumes of ready-made garments and textiles.

In addition to official meetings, Thoppil will conduct field visits to major industrial and private sector zones to observe the ongoing trade collaboration and assess future opportunities. Key focus areas for enhanced economic cooperation include information technology, aerospace, agriculture, and clean energy.

Paul Thoppil was appointed as Canada’s first Indo-Pacific Trade Representative on September 5, 2023, following his pivotal role in developing Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy. A seasoned public servant, he previously served as assistant deputy minister for Asia-Pacific at Global Affairs Canada and held various senior roles in Canada’s federal institutions.

His Bangladesh visit marks another strategic step in Canada's efforts to enhance supply chain resilience and economic presence across the Indo-Pacific region.

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