The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) has called on Bangladesh to enhance port management, logistics infrastructure, and regional connectivity to attract greater Japanese investment.
The request was made by Kazuyuki Kataoka, Country Representative of JETRO, during a courtesy meeting with Mahmud Hasan Khan, President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), held at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara, Dhaka.
Kataoka reaffirmed Japan’s position as one of Bangladesh’s major investment partners and stated that many Japanese companies are eager to expand their operations in the country. However, he stressed that improvements in logistics and infrastructure are crucial to realizing this potential.
He also noted that JETRO continues to promote Japanese investment in Bangladesh and facilitates the introduction of Japanese products and technologies into the local market. Simultaneously, the organization is committed to supporting Bangladeshi products in gaining access to the Japanese market. To this end, JETRO works closely with the Government of Bangladesh, trade associations, and other stakeholders to strengthen bilateral trade and economic relations.
The meeting was attended by Sheikh Mohammad Shariful Alam, Senior Director of JETRO’s Dhaka Office; Enamul Haque Khan, BGMEA Senior Vice President; Md. Shihab Uddoja Chowdhury, Vice President; and Mohammad Sohel, Director.
Discussions centered on enhancing bilateral trade and investment in the apparel sector. Both parties shared views on the current state of Bangladesh’s garment industry, the promising opportunities in the Japanese market, and the potential impact of countervailing duties by the United States on Bangladeshi apparel exports.
BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan highlighted the association’s strategic focus on market diversification and identified Japan as a high-potential destination for Bangladesh’s garment exports. He noted that while exports to Japan have already exceeded USD 1 billion, there remains substantial untapped potential. He urged JETRO to take a more proactive role in supporting Bangladeshi exporters in the Japanese market.
The two sides also discussed ongoing negotiations surrounding the proposed Japan-Bangladesh Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). The BGMEA president advocated for the inclusion of Single-Stage Rules of Origin, which would streamline the export process and reduce manufacturing costs for Bangladeshi producers.
Additionally, President Khan emphasized the need to organize matchmaking sessions and exchange visits between apparel industry stakeholders from both countries to build stronger business ties and explore new opportunities.
The meeting also addressed the importance of pursuing bilateral and multilateral trade agreements to mitigate potential challenges as Bangladesh prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status.