AA Expands Cross-Border Trade with Bangladesh

The Arakan Army (AA), a Rakhine militant group, has reportedly been expanding its cross-border trade operations with Bangladesh, including drug trafficking, through the Myanmar-Bangladesh border.

According to sources, the AA has been importing various supplies from Bangladesh into Arakan State via key entry points in the Fultoli and Dartojja Harta areas of Gojon Diya, located in Bangladesh’s Bandarban district. It has been reported that multiple Bangladeshi individuals are engaged in transactions with the AA, supplying goods and materials through these border areas.

A witness stated, “The Arakan Army (AA) brings cows and drugs from Arakan State and exports them to Bangladeshi individuals. In return, they import materials from Bangladeshi traders through the Fultoli and Dartojja Harta areas in Gojon Diya, Bandarban district.”

Reports indicate that trade between the AA and Bangladeshi traders has been increasing daily, with illicit drug trafficking becoming a significant part of these transactions. A laborer involved in these exchanges revealed, “We are paid 2,000 to 2,500 taka per transaction for handling materials. However, when we transport drugs from the Arakan Army (AA), we receive 5,000 to 6,000 taka.”

The growing trade network of the AA, particularly its involvement in drug trafficking, raises security concerns for both Bangladesh and Myanmar. The increasing flow of illicit goods could further destabilize the region, prompting urgent measures from authorities on both sides of the border.

Rohingya Vision News will continue monitoring developments on this issue.