PM Urges Chinese Companies to Expand Value Chains in Bangladesh

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday called on Chinese companies to expand their manufacturing value chains into Bangladesh, highlighting ongoing reforms, streamlined approval processes and enhanced institutional support as the government seeks to establish the country as a leading destination for foreign investment.

Speaking at the Bangladesh Investment Forum in Beijing, the Prime Minister also announced that Bangladesh would soon open its first Investment Office in China to provide direct assistance to potential Chinese investors and expedite investment decisions.

“We invite Chinese companies to extend their value chains into Bangladesh. We can support Chinese businesses in serving global markets while benefiting from our large and growing domestic demand,” he said, describing the opportunity as a “complementary, practical and win-win partnership.”

Addressing Chinese business leaders, industrialists and institutional investors, Tarique Rahman said Bangladesh-China relations have progressed from diplomacy to development, from development to trade, and are now entering a new phase of deeper industrial cooperation.

He noted that Bangladesh is undergoing a “monumental economic and governance transformation” and is ready to emerge as a trusted and competitive hub for Chinese enterprises seeking global expansion.

“Bangladesh is open for business, prepared for the future and eager to work with China, one of our long-standing and trusted friends,” he told the gathering.

Expressing optimism about the future of bilateral ties, the Prime Minister said stronger economic cooperation would further reinforce the enduring friendship between the two countries.

“Today, I am pleased to announce that we will soon open our first Investment Office in China. Our goal is straightforward: Chinese investors should not have to wait until they arrive in Bangladesh to receive support. We want to engage with you more closely, communicate more frequently and help transform interest into investment decisions more quickly,” he said.

Referring to China’s shift towards advanced manufacturing and higher-value industries, Tarique Rahman said parts of its manufacturing ecosystem would increasingly look for competitive overseas destinations, and Bangladesh is well positioned to become one of them.

He said the government has launched a comprehensive 180-day Action Plan to reform institutions responsible for international investment and eliminate long-standing bureaucratic barriers.

As part of the initiative, Bangladesh is enhancing policy consistency, reducing overlapping regulations and digitising public services to improve transparency, predictability and efficiency for investors.

The Prime Minister assured foreign investors of equal treatment, the right to repatriate capital and dividends in line with existing laws and regulations, and robust legal protections.

To attract greater Chinese investment, he said Bangladesh is developing dedicated industrial infrastructure, including the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone in Anwara and a second economic zone in Mongla.