China committed to boosting trade, investment ties with Bangladesh

Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen has reaffirmed China's commitment to increasing trade and investment in Bangladesh, stating that support for the country's development will remain steady regardless of its political leadership.

"China will continue to support Bangladesh's sustainable development and the improvement of people's livelihoods, no matter who is in power," he said while addressing a seminar on 'China-Bangladesh industrial and supply chain cooperation' at a city hotel on Wednesday.

The Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB), the organiser of the seminar, also launched a set of detailed industry reports covering key sectors such as energy, transport, ICT, and water management.

The Chinese envoy stressed the importance of a sound institutional framework to attract investment and urged Bangladesh to accelerate negotiations on upgrading bilateral investment treaty and launching a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries.

"We sincerely hope that our Bangladeshi friends will take it seriously and act promptly," he said.

Highlighting the recent developments, he said since last August nearly 20 Chinese firms have signed investment deals worth over US$400 million with Bangladeshi partners.

In the first quarter of 2025 alone, Chinese investment in Bangladesh surged by 3.7 times, the envoy said, adding that now China is the largest source of foreign direct investment in Bangladesh since the interim government took office.

Ambassador Yao praised the country's ongoing reforms and economic transformation under the leadership of Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus.

"At this critical juncture of industrial upgrading, Bangladesh is emerging as a new investment hotspot in South Asia," he noted.

He also called for continued collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative, stating: "Together, we can elevate economic and trade relations to new heights and further contribute to the China-Bangladesh Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership."

Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun acknowledged challenges in the country's investment environment.

"We have a tendency to promise but not deliver. However, the government is working to change this culture. Hopefully, you will see significant improvements," he said.

He further said a BIDA office will soon be established to facilitate Chinese investment and proposed the creation of a China Town in Dhaka to strengthen ties further.

Other senior officials, including Chairman of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission Jalal Ahmed, ICT Secretary Sheesh Haider Chowdhury and representatives from various ministries addressed the seminar.

CEAB President Han Kun and senior officials from shipping, industries, roads, and water supply departments also spoke on the occasion.

"China is our trusted friend and the top trading partner," Mr. Jalal Ahmed said, highlighting potential for deeper cooperation in the energy sector.

ICT Secretary Chowdhury mentioned China's involvement in Bangladesh's high-tech and cybersecurity sectors and welcomed more investment, especially in high-tech parks.

Replying to question, Ambassador Yao told reporters that the recent tripartite meeting, involving Bangladesh, China, and Pakistan, was held in Kunming, China.

Terming the meeting a step toward "concrete cooperation" in 12 identified areas, including education, environment, water resources, and industry, he said: "Our cooperation is based on mutual trust and openness. It is not aimed at any third country.

Chinese ambassador expressed his confidence in Bangladesh's current and future governments, stating that Chinese enterprises are ready to play a larger role in the country's economic and social progress.

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