PM Calls for Greater Japanese Investment in ICT and Renewable Energy

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday called for increased Japanese investment in Bangladesh’s key growth sectors, including information and communication technology (ICT), renewable energy and advanced manufacturing, highlighting significant opportunities through foreign direct investment (FDI) and public-private partnerships (PPP).

He made the appeal during a meeting with Masumi Kakinoki, chairman of Marubeni Corporation and the Japan-Bangladesh Committee for Commercial and Economic Cooperation (JBCCEC), at Tokyo’s Imperial Hotel at 3:45pm local time, according to Prime Minister’s Deputy Press Secretary Shahadat Hossain Shadhin.

During the meeting, Tarique Rahman stressed the importance of strengthening economic ties between Bangladesh and Japan. He said the government was committed to creating a business-friendly investment climate by introducing regulatory reforms, simplifying investment approval procedures and expanding public-private partnerships.

Kakinoki expressed optimism that the effective implementation of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the two countries would boost bilateral trade, attract greater Japanese investment and generate new business opportunities.

The prime minister also sought Japanese assistance in modernising Karnaphuli Fertiliser Company Limited (KAFCO) and conducting a feasibility study for establishing a second fertiliser plant in Bangladesh.

Additionally, he requested support from the JBCCEC and Marubeni Corporation for developing the Bangladesh Special Economic Zone (BSEZ).

Tarique Rahman commended Kakinoki’s efforts to strengthen trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. He also expressed appreciation for his role in promoting Japanese investment in Bangladesh and enhancing bilateral business relations.

The meeting was attended by Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Finance and Planning Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir, State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit, and Prime Minister’s Adviser on Posts, Telecommunications, ICT and Science and Technology Rehan Asif Asad.

Other attendees included Prime Minister’s Special Assistant for Overseas Employment Affairs in the Asia-Pacific Region Md Shakirul Islam Khan, Bangladesh Bank Governor Md Mostaqur Rahman and Prime Minister’s Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman.

On October 11, a Marubeni delegation led by its President and CEO Masayuki Omoto met Tarique Rahman at the Prime Minister’s Office in Dhaka. Their discussions focused on expanding Japanese investment and strengthening cooperation in information technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, fertiliser and energy.

Earlier on Monday, the prime minister arrived in Tokyo for a four-day official visit, leading a 16-member high-level delegation.