The Foreign Investors’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), in collaboration with JETRO, JCIAD, and HSBC Bangladesh hosted a seminar titled "Japan-Bangladesh Collaboration: Enhancing FDI & Economic Partnership" at The Sheraton Dhaka on Tuesday.
The event aimed to strengthen economic ties between Japan and Bangladesh, focusing on boosting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and economic partnerships.
Lutfey Siddiqi, Special Envoy on International Affairs to the Chief Advisor of Bangladesh, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of BIDA & BEZA, and H.E. IWAMA Kiminori, Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh attended as Special Guests.
The seminar facilitated dialogue among key stakeholders to strengthen economic cooperation between Japan and Bangladesh, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to drive sustainable development and create an environment conducive to foreign investment.
Yuji Ando, Country Representative of JETRO Bangladesh, presented on "Business Opportunities and Challenges of Doing Business in Bangladesh." He highlighted that 45.5% of Japanese SMEs plan to expand in the region within 1-2 years, with Bangladesh as a top destination at 61.2%.
However, he pointed out challenges, including dissatisfaction with the business environment, with 70.8% citing areas for improvement, such as customs procedures, transparency, and local procurement. Despite these, he noted that production costs in Bangladesh are competitive, under 60% of those in Japan.
ICHIGUCHI Tomohide, Chief Representative of JICA Bangladesh, presented on "Investment Promotion in Bangladesh and JICA’s Engagement." ICHIGUCHI emphasized JICA's focus on diversifying industries, enhancing institutional frameworks, and supporting infrastructure projects like the Matarbari deep seaport to boost Bangladesh’s manufacturing and logistics sectors.
FICCI President Zaved Akhtar said, "This seminar is a landmark event that underscores the deep economic ties and potential between our two nations. This partnership is pivotal for fostering greater foreign direct investment and economic growth. By working together, we can create a robust and forward-looking economic cooperation model that will benefit both Japan and Bangladesh. "
Atsushi Hirakuru, President of JCIAD, stated, "This seminar marks a significant milestone in strengthening the economic relationship between Japan and Bangladesh. The collaborative efforts reflect our shared commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth. I am confident that the insights and discussions from this seminar will pave the way for increased foreign direct investment and a mutually beneficial economic partnership. "
The event was attended by FICCI Board of Directors, CEOs of member companies, representatives from various embassies, and other key stakeholders.
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
