China has expressed interest in establishing a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Mongla to expand trade relations and increase investment flows, according to the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida).

Yunus highlighted Bangladesh's strategic location and skilled workforce, positioning it as a potential manufacturing hub for global companies

Foreign direct investment (FDI) from China in Bangladesh has risen to $2.67 billion as of September 2024, according to official data, cementing China’s position as the country’s second-largest investor.

We must assess failure to fully utilise zero-duty trade benefits from China

Bangladesh has always been a viable destination for Chinese firms as it offers some significant benefits that Chinese companies enjoy at home.

Chinese entrepreneurs are increasingly inquiring with Bangladeshi businesses over scope for factory relocations, joint ventures and fresh investments, apprehending that the new Trump administration might further hike tariffs on their exports to the US.

There was an expectation that investment inflows from China to Bangladesh would increase substantially following the Covid-19 pandemic as investors in China were looking for an alternative manufacturing hub.

United Spinning will set up a dyed textile yarn manufacturing industry

Like Japanese and Chinese companies operating in Bangladesh, domestic firms as well as those from other countries are not happy with the overall business climate in the country, said a number of entrepreneurs, heads of chambers and experts. 

Starting from difficulties in securing visa and work permits to opening and settling of letters of credit (LCs) and an unavailability of tax-related materials and booklets in English language, there are numerous hindrances that Chinese investors face in Bangladesh.

The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (Beza) has teamed up with Bangladesh China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Bccci) to attract Chinese investment in the economic zones.

The China Council for the Promotion of International Trade signs deal with Bangladesh China Chamber

Newly-appointed Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen says in meeting with Planning Minister MA Mannan