Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday invited Chinese companies to extend their manufacturing value chains into Bangladesh, assuring investors of sweeping reforms, faster approvals and stronger institutional support as his government wants to position the country as a major destination for foreign investment.
Addressing the Bangladesh Investment Forum in Beijing, the prime minister also announced that Bangladesh will soon establish its first Investment Office in China to provide direct support for prospective Chinese investors and facilitate faster investment decisions.
"We are inviting Chinese companies to extend their value chain into Bangladesh. We can help Chinese companies serve global markets while benefiting from growing large domestic demand," he said, describing the prospect as a "complementary, practical and win-win relationship."
Speaking before Chinese business leaders, industrialists and institutional investors, Tarique Rahman described Bangladesh and China as partners whose relationship has evolved from diplomacy to development, from development to trade, and now towards deeper industrial cooperation.
He said Bangladesh is undergoing a "monumental economic and governance transformation" and is ready to become a trusted and competitive hub for Chinese businesses looking to expand globally.
"Bangladesh is open for business, ready for the future, and keen to work with China, one of our longstanding and trusted friends," the prime minister told the audience.
He expressed confidence that stronger economic collaboration will further deepen the long-standing friendship between Bangladesh and China.
“Today, I am also happy to announce that we will soon be opening our first 'Investment Office' in China. Our objective is simple. Chinese investors should not have to wait until they arrive in Bangladesh to receive support. We want to be closer to you, speak to you more regularly and help you move faster from interest to decision,” Tarique Rahman said.
Highlighting China's transition towards advanced manufacturing and high-value industries, he said parts of the country's manufacturing ecosystem will seek new competitive destinations and Bangladesh is well-positioned to become one of those locations.
The prime minister said his government has launched a rigorous 180-day Action Plan aimed at overhauling institutions dealing with international investment and removing long-standing bureaucratic obstacles.
Under the initiative, he said Bangladesh is improving policy continuity, reducing overlapping regulatory procedures and digitising government services to ensure greater transparency, predictability and efficiency for investors.
Tarique Rahman assured foreign investors of non-discriminatory treatment, the repatriation of capital and dividends in accordance with existing laws and regulations, and strong legal protections.
As part of efforts to attract more Chinese investment, he said Bangladesh is developing dedicated industrial facilities, including the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone in Anwara and a second economic zone in Mongla.