Japan urges Bangladesh to ease investment barriers

Japan wants Bangladesh to remove unnecessary regulatory hurdles, diversify its industrial base and create more room for foreign investment as the two countries prepare to deepen economic ties under their newly signed Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).

Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi made the call at the 21st annual general meeting (AGM) of the Japan-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JBCCI) at Lakeshore Hotel in Dhaka on Sunday.

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Saida said Bangladesh’s growing focus on attracting foreign direct investment was encouraging, but sustained investment would depend on a more transparent and predictable business environment.

He stressed the need to reduce red tape, develop upstream industries and diversify the country’s industrial base while creating more employment opportunities for its young population.

His remarks came as JBCCI, which now has 391 members, began a new two-year leadership term. Kazuiki Kataoka was elected president, replacing Tareq Rafi Bhuiyan, who completed his term.

The ambassador also pointed to the EPA, signed in February, as an important milestone in Bangladesh-Japan economic relations. He expressed hope that Japanese investment proposals currently in the pipeline would materialise in the coming years.

Saida also highlighted the importance of continued high-level engagement between Dhaka and Tokyo in supporting business and investment ties.

Outgoing president Tareq Rafi Bhuiyan said the EPA could open significant opportunities for both countries, but businesses would need to prepare for its implementation. He also called for a predictable investment climate and stronger business connectivity.

Secretary General Maria Howlader said JBCCI had expanded its membership significantly and remained engaged in policy advocacy, government consultations, investment promotion and business networking during the past year.

The new president, Kataoka, said his priorities would include highlighting Japan’s contribution to Bangladesh through trade, investment and infrastructure, while making greater use of the expertise within JBCCI’s nearly 400 member companies.

The chamber also plans to place greater emphasis on sector-specific business matching, investor issue resolution, business delegations to Japan and the participation of women entrepreneurs and young business leaders.

The AGM was attended by nearly 240 business representatives, diplomats, officials and media professionals.