Dhaka, March 1 -- Bangladesh's foreign trade, both exports and imports, is set to face fresh challenges as several Middle Eastern flights remain suspended amid ongoing attacks in a number of Gulf countries

Economists and exporters say the disruption to air routes could hamper shipments to key destinations, particularly the EU, where many buyers rely on air cargo at their own expense to meet short lead times. With major Middle Eastern transit hubs affected, regular cargo movement has been disrupted. Dr. M A Razzaque, Chairman of Research and Policy Integration for Development (RAPID), said it is too early to assess the full impact of the conflict, as much will depend on its duration.

"For now, we have to wait and see how long it continue...