TBT DESK: Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir on Thursday urged for significantly increased Japanese investment in special economic zones (SEZs) and infrastructure.

“The nation’s current trajectory is bolstered by stable economic growth, skilled workforce, and investment-friendly policies, which have collectively established a highly favourable environment for foreign direct investment,” he said.

The minister made the remarks during a meeting with JETRO Country Representative Kazuyuki Kataoka at the ministry in the secretariat said a press release, reports BSS.

During the meeting, the Commerce Minister detailed the vast potential for Japanese engagement in Bangladesh’s burgeoning economy. 

He specifically sought Japanese technical and financial cooperation in the strategic areas, including Special Economic Zones (SEZs), infrastructure development, industrialisation and export diversification.

The Commerce Minister characterised the proposed Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the two nations as a milestone for bilateral trade and investment. 

Highlighting its long-term diplomatic value, he noted that the Japan-Bangladesh EPA would not only strengthen ties with Tokyo but also serve as a vital reference for Bangladesh during its future negotiations for similar economic agreements with other global partners.

Responding to the minister's remarks, Kazuyuki Kataoka observed that the investment climate in Bangladesh has witnessed a marked improvement after election. 

He noted that this revitalised environment has acted as a catalyst, with a significant number of Japanese investors already expressing keen interest in the Bangladeshi market.

Kataoka underscored that the influx of Japanese capital would be instrumental in employment generation and the continued infrastructure development of the country, further solidifying the economic transition.

Kazuyuki Kataoka cited the Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and the Dhaka Metro Rail as flagship examples of infrastructure that have successfully integrated Japanese investment.

The meeting concluded with both parties expressing a firm resolve to elevate the existing robust economic relationship between Bangladesh and Japan. 

The Commerce Minister and the JETRO representative pledged to work jointly to explore fresh avenues of cooperation, ensuring a deeper and more resilient economic partnership for the future.