In a persuasive appeal to Chinese investors, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has declared that now is the opportune time to invest in Bangladesh, highlighting the potential for significant mutual achievements. The call was made during the second day of her official visit to Beijing, where she attended a conference on business and investment opportunities between Bangladesh and China.
Hosted at the Shangri-La Hotel in Beijing, the conference was organized jointly by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority, the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission, and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT). Prime Minister Hasina outlined the numerous sectors ripe for investment, including infrastructure, energy, logistics, information technology, tourism, agro-processing industries, and developmental projects.
Prime Minister Hasina emphasized the vast opportunities in infrastructure, logistics, and the energy sector. She noted the strategic importance of Bangladesh in international trade and connectivity, citing its direct access to major maritime and land routes connecting South Asia, Southeast Asia, and East Asia.
Highlighting the burgeoning IT sector, the Prime Minister spoke of the government’s active role in promoting technology and innovation through incentives for startups and investments in tech parks. She also pointed out the country’s advancements in renewable energy, waste management, and green technology as key investment opportunities.
The Prime Minister discussed plans to establish three special tourism zones where Chinese investors could particularly contribute to real estate and service sectors, suggesting a vast scope for luxurious and large-scale projects tailored to boost tourism and hospitality.
Detailing ongoing mega projects like the Padma Multipurpose Bridge, the Karnaphuli Tunnel, and the Matarbari deep-sea port, Hasina reassured potential investors of Bangladesh’s commitment to upgrading its infrastructure to international standards. This includes expansions in sea and airports, and the introduction of metropolitan rail services.
Hasina assured that the government is making concerted efforts to ensure a business-friendly environment. She highlighted the establishment of 100 special economic zones and 38 high-tech parks aimed at simplifying the investment process and offering substantial opportunities for large-scale industrial and technological investments.
The conference concluded with the signing of 16 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between various Bangladeshi and Chinese companies, in the presence of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. These agreements are expected to usher in a new era of bilateral cooperation and economic development.
The Prime Minister’s visit and the subsequent discussions underscore Bangladesh’s readiness and enthusiasm for substantial foreign investments. By opening doors to a broad spectrum of sectors for Chinese investors, Bangladesh is positioning itself as a key player in the region’s economic landscape.