PM Seeks Japan’s Support to Diversify Bangladesh’s Export Markets

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday sought Japan’s cooperation in diversifying Bangladesh’s export basket and expanding trade and investment, as the two countries work to strengthen their economic partnership.

He made the appeal during a meeting with Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) President Susumu Kataoka in Tokyo at 11:45am local time, PM’s Deputy Press Secretary Shahadat Hossain Shadhin said.

The Prime Minister urged Japanese companies to increase investment in Bangladesh’s special economic zones, particularly in advanced manufacturing, information and communication technology (ICT), automobiles, renewable energy and agro-processing.

He appreciated JETRO’s role in promoting Japanese investment in Bangladesh, noting that new business opportunities were emerging for Japanese companies in the country.

Both sides underscored the importance of the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) in strengthening bilateral trade and investment.

Tarique also sought Japan’s support for skills development initiatives and the establishment of Japanese language training centres in Bangladesh. He said these initiatives would help create employment opportunities in Japan while reinforcing long-term economic ties between the two countries.

JETRO President Susumu Kataoka said Bangladesh offered significant investment potential because of its economic growth and strategic geographical location.

He added that Japanese companies were increasingly interested in exploring business and investment opportunities in Bangladesh, encouraged by various initiatives taken by the government under Tarique’s leadership.

Following the meeting, the Prime Minister attended a luncheon hosted by Kataoka at his invitation. The two sides also discussed ways to advance bilateral cooperation and deepen economic relations.

Tarique invited the JETRO president to visit Bangladesh at his convenience.

Members of the Bangladesh delegation included Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, PM’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, Invest Bangladesh Authority Chairman Ashik Chowdhury, Bangladesh Bank Governor Md Mostaqur Rahman, PM’s Special Assistant Dr Md Shakirul Islam Khan, Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon and other senior officials from the Prime Minister’s Office.