Written by The Banking Post
A two-day Belt and Road Initiative Exhibition began in Dhaka on Friday, showcasing the growing economic and technological cooperation between Bangladesh and China and aiming to draw more Chinese investment.
Inaugurating the event at the Bashundhara Convention Centre, Commerce Advisor Sheikh Bashir Uddin said the fair was designed to link trade with investment and strengthen “joint capabilities” between the two countries.
“This exhibition is a platform for mutual cooperation and sharing of ideas,” Bashir said. “There is scope to move ahead if we can use China’s experience in production and packaging.”
He noted that Chinese investment in Bangladesh has jumped 300% in recent years, but stressed the importance of addressing domestic weaknesses and learning from China’s manufacturing expertise.
Responding to a question on Bangladesh’s progress compared with China and Japan, he pointed to the country’s global ranking in apparel exports:
“Bangladesh is the world’s second-largest exporter of ready-made garments. We are ahead in some areas, but overall still lagging behind.”
The advisor also said Bangladesh had sought Chinese support for improving road and transport infrastructure, citing the alarming toll of road accidents each year.
On trade with the US, Bashir revealed that a Washington delegation is expected in Dhaka on Sunday to discuss tariff structures.
Organised by the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka, the exhibition features eight Bangladeshi firms and 32 Chinese companies spanning infrastructure, technology, telecommunications, healthcare, agriculture, energy, transport and logistics.
The expo is open to the public on September 12-13 from 10am to 7pm.
