Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir urged Thai investors to increase investment in Bangladesh, expressing optimism that stronger trade and investment ties would elevate economic cooperation between the two countries to a new level. Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of the three-day ‘Top Thai Brands 2026’ international trade exhibition at a city hotel, the minister highlighted the long-standing relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand, based on mutual trust, respect, and cooperation.
Potential for Expanded Trade and Investment
The commerce minister noted that although bilateral trade has been growing steadily, there remains enormous potential to expand trade and investment. He emphasized that Bangladesh has emerged as an attractive destination for foreign investment due to its strategic location, large consumer market, skilled workforce, and investment-friendly policies.
Muktadir welcomed Thai investment in promising sectors such as agro-processing, tourism, leather, readymade garments, automobile components, rubber products, and other high-potential industries. He also expressed Bangladesh’s interest in increasing exports to the Thai market, particularly pharmaceuticals, processed food, environmentally friendly jute products, leather goods, and light engineering products.
Significance of International Trade Fairs
Highlighting the significance of international trade fairs, Muktadir said such exhibitions are not merely platforms for showcasing products but also effective avenues for establishing direct business linkages among manufacturers, exporters, importers, distributors, investors, and entrepreneurs. He said events like ‘Top Thai Brands 2026’ would help forge new business partnerships and make a meaningful contribution to expanding bilateral trade.
Referring to the government’s efforts to improve the business climate, the minister said Bangladesh is implementing various initiatives to facilitate trade, develop infrastructure, accelerate digitalisation, and strengthen connectivity with international markets. He stressed the importance of responsible foreign investment, saying it would create employment opportunities, promote the adoption of advanced technologies, and contribute significantly to the country’s industrial development.
