Analysts at the discussion observed that a number of bilateral FTAs, such as India-Sri Lanka, India-Nepal, India-Bhutan, and Pakistan-Sri Lanka, now prevail in the SAARC.

To reap increased benefits, analysts suggested that weaker economies strengthen the trade liberalisation process under SAFTA, which will give the least developed countries (LDCs) a collective voice for effective negotiations.

'Intra-regional FTAs take place due to factors like frustration of Saarc processes,' said Ratnakar Adhikari of the South Asia Watch on Trade, Economics and Environment at the regional conference.

Rajesh Mehta from India, Abid Suleri from Pakistan, and Nazneen Ahmed from Bangladesh, spoke on the occasion. It was chaired by Bishwambher Pyakuryal of Tribhuvan University, Nepal.