0

[🇧🇩] China is a Time Tested Friend and a Strategic Partner of Bangladesh

Press space to scroll through posts
G Bangladesh Defense
[🇧🇩] China is a Time Tested Friend and a Strategic Partner of Bangladesh
248
6K
More threads by Saif


China to expand BR projects in Bangladesh
Stands ready to participate in Teesta project, says envoy
FE ONLINE REPORT
Published :
Apr 23, 2025 20:58
Updated :
Apr 23, 2025 21:21

1745450909849.png


China, currently engaged in an infrastructure development project, on Wednesday, signalled its desire to expand collaboration into the digital, marine and green economies and to widen medical visas and scholarship quotas for Bangladeshi citizens.

“China will further deepen comprehensive reforms and expand high-level opening-up, bringing new opportunities for development to Bangladesh and countries around the world,” the Chinese Ambassador in Dhaka, Yao Wen, said while addressing the opening ceremony of the training programmes for Bangladeshi officials organised by the China Aid in the city.

He said China stands ready to participate in the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project, and China will continue to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and explore further cooperation in the fields of digital economy, green economy, marine economy, infrastructure and water conservancy.

Ms. Mirana Mahrukh, Additional Secretary, Wing Chief of ERD, Ministry of Finance, and Mr. Mohammed Nore-Alam, Director General, East Asia and Pacific Wing, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also spoke on the event.

As previously noted, this year, China will organise 23 bilateral seminars and 30 multilateral seminars, training over 500 Bangladeshi participants.

These seminars will cover areas such as smart governance and information technology, new energy, finance, transportation, agriculture, tourism, and education.

Mr Wen said, Economic and trade cooperation and people-to-people exchanges serve as cornerstones of our comprehensive cooperation. ”The meeting between Bangladesh Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus and Chinese President Xi Jinping held in Beijing last month marked a new phase of development in China-Bangladesh relations and elevated the ‘Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership’ between the two countries to an unprecedented height,” he noted.

“This visit injected new momentum into the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between the two countries. It has become a broad consensus in Bangladeshi society that China is the most trustworthy and reliable development partner,” he said.

The Chinese Ambassador said the recent tariff imposed by the Trump administration ‘severely infringes upon the legitimate rights and interests of all countries, severely violates WTO rules, severely undermines the rules-based multilateral trading system, and severely disrupts the global economic order’.

“China stands ready to work with Bangladesh and all nations to advance economic globalisation towards greater openness and inclusiveness with balanced benefits so as to build a fair world of common development,” he added.​
 

China wants strong, stable, democratic Bangladesh: Fakhrul
Published :
Apr 26, 2025 23:04
Updated :
Apr 26, 2025 23:34

1745713722840.png

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday said China wants to see a strong, stable and democratic Bangladesh.

“They always want to see stability in Bangladesh. They want to see a strong and prosperous Bangladesh and democratic environment in the country,” he said after a meeting with a visiting delegation from the Communist Party of China (CPC), UNB reports.

The two-hour meeting, which began around 6:30 pm, was held at the capital’s Westin Hotel.

Fakhrul said it was basically a meeting between the two parties—BNP and CPC—as they have a longstanding relationship.

He mentioned that the relationship between the two parties had been disrupted over the last 15 years due to the Awami League’s rule.

“We are now reviving that relationship. So, our ties with the Communist Party of China are now deepening gradually. It will continue to grow in the future,” the BNP leader said.

In response to a question, Fakhrul said elections are Bangladesh’s internal matter and that China usually does not interfere in any country’s internal affairs.

He, however, said they briefed the Chinese delegation about the country’s election and political situation.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen said they had very good discussions with the BNP delegation.

“We discussed cooperation between our two parties and also discussed that the Communist Party of China and BNP will work together to enhance cooperation between the two countries,” he said.

Responding to a question, the Chinese envoy said, “We were briefed by the BNP secretary general about BNP’s viewpoint for the next election.”

He also reiterated that elections are Bangladesh’s internal matter and that the people of Bangladesh will make the decision on it.

A seven-member BNP delegation, led by Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, attended the meeting.

The other members included Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan, Chairperson’s Advisory Council member Ismail Zabiullah, Legal Affairs Secretary Kaiser Kamal, Chairperson’s Foreign Affairs Advisory Committee member Humayun Kabir, Media Cell member Mahmuda Habiba, and BNP Chairperson’s Private Secretary ABM Abdus Sattar.

The CPC delegation was headed by Peng Xiubin, Director General of the Southeast and South Asian Affairs Bureau under the International Department of the CPC Central Committee. Other members included Deputy Director Chen Xuanbo, Third Secretary Chen Yongpei, and Attaché Zhang Guyu.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen also joined the meeting, accompanied by Political Section Director Zhang Jing and Political Section Attaché Liu Hongru.​
 

Big Chinese business delegation to visit Bangladesh soon: Foresign secretary
Published :
Apr 29, 2025 21:03
Updated :
Apr 29, 2025 21:03

1745970241344.png


A big business delegation from China will be visiting Bangladesh soon that manifests strong economic ties between the two countries, Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin has said.

The 100-member Chinese business delegation will be led by the commerce minister of China, UNB reports.

Expressing satisfaction at the ease of visa, Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin underlined that the affordable airfare on Dhaka-Kunming flights would further encourage Bangladeshi patients to receive treatment in China.

Bangladesh thanked the government of China for offering special medical treatment facilities for Bangladeshi patients in Kunming.

Bangladesh also requested the Chinese government to increase scholarships for Bangladeshi students at Chinese universities.

The issues were discussed when Director General of the Bureau of Southeast and South Asian Affairs, International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC), Peng Xiubin, met the Foreign Secretary at his office this week.

The Rohingya issue was also discussed at the meeting, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The foreign secretary reiterated Bangladesh’s firm support for the one-China principle and expressed satisfaction with the successful visits of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain to China and their having fruitful interactions with their counterparts, which have enhanced cooperation in a number of areas, including trade, investment, health and educational sectors.

The Director General appreciated the warm and friendly attitude of the people of Bangladesh towards China and said that China and the Communist Party of China will be with the people of Bangladesh to fulfil their dreams and expectations in pursuit of economic development and growth.

Referring to the recent successful visit of the Chief Adviser to China and having fruitful discussions with President Xi Jinping, the Director General said that Bangladesh is an important partner and trusted friend.

He said that China will work to strengthen bilateral trade, continue to support the infrastructural development and enhance cultural cooperation and people-to-people exchanges.

Peng Xiubin reiterated China’s strong support for Bangladesh as a close-door neighbour and development partner as part of its neighbourhood diplomacy.

He added that the contact between the political parties of the two countries is an important pillar of Bangladesh-China relationship, and the CPC looks forward to expanding these exchanges to think tanks and academia.

The foreign secretary thanked the Chinese government for its continued support in this regard and thanked the director general of IDCPC for visiting Bangladesh.​
 

China launches ‘Green Channel’ for Bangladeshis’ medical visas
BSS
Published :
May 04, 2025 16:46
Updated :
May 04, 2025 16:46

1746494123153.png


The Embassy of China in Dhaka has introduced special facilitation measures for medical treatment visas for Bangladeshi nationals to China.

The embassy has taken the initiative to implement the important consensus on public health cooperation reached by the leaders of China and Bangladesh during the visit of Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus in March, Chinese embassy said on Sunday.

As per the efforts the Chinese embassy simplified Documentation Requirement, Dedicated "Green Channel" Services and Streamlined Interview Process.

The local Bangladeshi travel agencies with valid business licenses may issue guarantee letters for travelers seeking medical treatment in China regarding bank deposit certificates and proof of kinship, exempting them from obtaining the certificates authenticated by the Bangladeshi Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Embassy and the Visa Application Service Center have established dedicated hotlines (Embassy: 02222260103, 01708464809; Visa Center: 02226603261) and a WhatsApp service group (01885041364) for medical visa inquiries.

Online applications will be prioritized and reviewed immediately upon submission.

A dedicated counter for medical visas has been set up at the Visa Center, allowing applicants to submit materials on arrival without waiting.

A "Green Channel" is available for urgent medical cases, with visas issued on the same day.

Medical visa applicants with scheduled appointments will be granted queue-free priority interviews.

Where in-person attendance is medically inadvisable, a travel agency's guarantee letter may authorize remote interview proceedings.

Chinese diagnostic and treatment medical institutions possess extensive experience for international patients, said the embassy.

More Bangladeshi citizens are welcome to visit China for health check-ups, rehabilitation and medical care, it added.​
 

Bangladesh, China set to elevate trade ties to new level: ambassador Yao
United News of Bangladesh . Dhaka 08 May, 2025, 13:28

1746756257954.png

Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen.

Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen on Thursday said the visit of the largest-ever business delegation in Bangladesh from China led by Chinese minister of commerce Wang Wentao later this month would send a ‘strong signal’ of openness, cooperation and mutual benefit, and will elevate the Bangladesh-China economic and trade relations to a new level.

‘We are confident that this visit will send a strong signal of openness, cooperation and mutual benefit, and will elevate China-Bangladesh economic and trade relations to a new level,’ he said at a programme here, adding that Chinese minister of commerce will lead more than 100 Chinese investors to visit Bangladesh at the end of this month.

During the visit, the two sides will co-host a trade and investment exchange event, where hundreds of Chinese and Bangladeshi enterprises will engage and explore more cooperation opportunities.

Ambassador Yao said the 15th meeting of the Bangladesh-China Joint Economic and Trade Commission will be held to agree on concrete measures to further our economic and trade cooperation.

Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) organised the country lecture on ‘Five Decades of Bangladesh-China Relations: Towards a New Height’ at the BIISS auditorium.

BIISS director general Major General Iftekhar Anis delivered welcome remarks while its chairman AFM Gousal Azam Sarker chaired the session. Executive director of the Centre for Alternatives, Bangladesh Imtiaz Ahmed made a presentation.​
 

Construction of Chinese economic zone gains momentum

1747182841950.png


The construction of the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone in Chattogram has gained momentum nearly a decade after its initiation, as Dhaka and Beijing look to strengthen bilateral ties and punishing Trump tariffs prompt Chinese manufacturers to consider relocating factories.

Of the 784 acres designated for the economic zone in Anwara upazila of the port city, around 60 acres have been prepared for investors.

Utility services are also being put in place. The Chattogram Water Supply and Sewerage Authority has installed a pipeline for limited water supply, and Karnaphuli Gas Distribution Company Limited has set up a gas station nearby.

The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (Beza) has also constructed the zone's administrative building and two approach roads.

Some Chinese manufacturers have already visited the site, and officials expect around 200 potential Chinese investors to tour the zone soon.

"A major foreign investment worth over $1 billion is expected from China," said Ashik Chowdhury, executive chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida) and Beza, referring to the recent visit by Chinese investors.

Initiated in 2016 following former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's 2014 visit to China, the project's progress remained sluggish during the previous Awami League government.

However, after the political changeover in August last year, the new interim government showed renewed interest in strengthening trade ties with China — Bangladesh's largest import market.

"We are seeing growing interest from Chinese investors," said a Beza official. The official said that the expected investor visits could open up significant opportunities in apparel and auto manufacturing, electronics, and logistics.

During Sheikh Hasina's visit to China, Beza signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China's Ministry of Commerce. The Bangladesh government later allocated Tk 420 crore for the first phase, partly funded by Chinese loans.

As per the deal, China Harbour Engineering Company Limited was appointed as the developer, but progress stalled due to unresolved lease and development agreements, prompting Beza to terminate the partnership in April 2022.

In July 2022, China Road and Bridge Corporation was picked as the new developer, and Beza signed a cooperation agreement to restart the project.

Located about 270 kilometres south of Dhaka, the zone could attract $1.5 billion in investment and create more than 200,000 jobs, according to Beza.

A "special purpose company" will be formed to manage and oversee operations in the economic zone.

To improve connectivity, the Roads and Highways Department is preparing to float a tender for a connecting road linking the zone with the Korean Export Processing Zone via the Karnaphuli tunnel.

A detailed project proposal has been submitted to the Chief Adviser's Office for preliminary review and is expected to be placed before the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) later this month.

Bida Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury said some Chinese investors are planning to start with a factory in Phase 1 of the economic zone.

"We're working on finalising the developer agreement. Once signed, construction will commence," he said, adding that the process may take up to two years.

He added that some investors could begin industrial construction early in the development phase. Regular dialogue with investors will continue to ensure smooth progress.

Meanwhile, another China-backed project, Chandpur Economic Zone-1, is also making headway under a government-to-government framework.

Proposed by the Power Construction Corporation of China Ltd (PowerChina), the zone will span 3,038 acres on an island in Matlab upazila.

Currently, a feasibility study is underway.

Due to the zone's isolated location on the Meghna river and limited mainland access, the focus will be on renewable energy and agro-based industries rather than conventional manufacturing, according to officials.

Once the feasibility study is complete, the proposal will be submitted to the Ecnec.​
 

China urges Bangladesh to improve investment climate
Chinese businesses want to set up establishments here

FHM HUAMAYN KABIR
Published :
May 21, 2025 00:58
Updated :
May 21, 2025 00:58

1747786327173.png


China has sought a better investment climate in Bangladesh as its businesses are ready to set up establishments here, officials said on Tuesday.

They said many Chinese businesses at a working-group meeting in Dhaka last week expressed their willingness to invest in Bangladesh and stressed the need to improve the business climate

The 'impoverished business climate' has long been preventing them from moving ahead with their plans, they pointed out at the meeting of the joint Bangladesh-China Working Group (WG) on economic cooperation and investment.

The meeting was held after a six-year hiatus.

Representatives from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka, and the Economic Relations Division (ERD) of Bangladesh were present at the meeting.

Presided over by ERD Additional Secretary Mirana Mahrukh, the WG discussed details on the prospects of investment and economic cooperation between Beijing and Dhaka.

The meeting was held ahead of the Bangladesh-China Joint Economic Commission (JEC) meeting which is expected to be held in Dhaka on June 1.

China is the largest trading partner of Bangladesh. In the last fiscal year (FY 2023-24), Bangladesh imported goods worth US$16.637 billion, 26.40 per cent of the country's total imports, showing higher demand for Chinese products in Bangladesh.

According to Bangladesh Bank data, China, including Hong Kong, has emerged as a significant investor in Bangladesh, with FDI reaching $2.789 billion as of December 2024, making it the country's second-largest investor.

Chinese enterprises are actively involved in various sectors such as textiles, energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects like the Padma Bridge and Karnaphuli Tunnel in Chattogram.

Many Chinese companies are also looking to diversify their production bases, particularly due to rising production costs and geopolitical tensions, making Bangladesh a potential destination for their "China Plus One" strategy.

Meanwhile, a leader of the Bangladesh-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCCI) said that while Bangladesh actively seeks to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), particularly from China, a number of persistent challenges in its business climate are making Chinese companies reluctant to fully commit to the investment.

Despite Bangladesh's strategic location, competitive labour costs, and ongoing efforts to establish economic zones, concerns over bureaucratic hurdles, infrastructural deficiencies, policy inconsistencies, and a lack of transparency continue to deter substantial inflow of Chinese capital, he said, requesting anonymity.

An official, who attended the Working Group meeting at ERD last week, told the FE that the Chinese investors are contemplating to invest in Bangladesh, but the country's impoverished business climate is discouraging them.

The Chinese side urged the Bangladesh side to improve the business climate that included simplification of the licencing system, easy access to land and energy, stable government policy on investment, and repatriation of profits, said the official.

"We have apprised the Chinese side of the government's initiatives to improve the business climate," he added.

The enthusiasm of the Chinese investors is often met with significant operational difficulties on the ground.

Key concerns frequently voiced by the Chinese businesses and acknowledged by analysts include bureaucratic complexities and administrative inefficiency, lengthy approval procedures, convoluted customs processes, and a general lack of efficiency in the government agencies.

These concerns are leading to significant delays and increased costs for investors.

Obtaining necessary permits and licences can be a time-consuming and complicated ordeal, they said.

Despite progress in some areas, Bangladesh still faces an infrastructure deficit. Unstable electricity and gas supplies, port congestion, and underdeveloped transport networks contribute to higher production costs and reduced investor confidence, analysts say.

The slow pace of economic zone implementation-including the one proposed for Chinese investors in Anwara-further illustrates these difficulties, insiders said.

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) has taken steps to improve the situation.

The Bangladesh government has initiated the development of large-scale economic zones and is working on merging its regional investment promotion agencies to streamline the FDI process.

The interim government has also expressed a strong desire to attract more Chinese investment, especially in sectors like healthcare, solar panel manufacturing, and high-value textiles.

However, for Bangladesh to fully capitalise on China's industrial relocation and attract a higher volume of Chinese investment, fundamental reforms are crucial.

Addressing the core issues of administrative inefficiency, corruption, infrastructure gaps, and policy instability will be key to fostering a truly investment-friendly environment and building long-term trust with Chinese and other foreign investors.

Without these systemic improvements, Bangladesh risks falling behind regional competitors in the race for crucial FDI, analysts said.​
 

Bangladesh to begin mango export to China on May 28: Agri Secretary
BSS
Published :
May 21, 2025 19:13
Updated :
May 21, 2025 22:12

1747868146529.png


Bangladesh is going to export mango to China for the first time on May 28 next, Agriculture Secretary Dr Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mian said on Wednesday.

He revealed this information at a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy this afternoon.

Emdad Ullah said about 50 metric tonnes of mangoes will be exported to China this year, while talks are on with Chinese provisional governments and the Chinese Ambassador in Dhaka to export more mangoes to China.

Besides, he said, the agriculture ministry has taken various initiatives to explore more international markets for Bangladeshi mangoes.

The agriculture secretary said Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at a meeting today directed them to explore new international markets for mangoes by assessing country-specific need and demand of mangoes.

He said a big initiative regarding mango is going to be taken by the agriculture ministry, which will be visible soon.

In addition, Emdad Ullah said the government has taken steps to export Bangladeshi jackfruits to China.

About 27 lakh metric tonnes of mangoes is produced in the country each year, he said, adding that mango is a seasonal fruit and activities are underway to export mangoes abroad.

He said about 31,100 metric tonnes of mangoes was exported in 2022-23, while 1,321 tonnes in 2023-24.

On the other hand, he said, mango production was 27 lakh metric tonnes in 2022-23 and 24.5 lakh metric tonnes in 2023-24.

The agriculture secretary said Bangladesh produces on average 25 lakh metric tonnes of mangoes each year while it exports 1,000 to 3,000 metric tonnes.

There is a demand of Bangladeshi mangoes around the world as it is delicious to eat, he said.

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Additional Secretary Dr Md Mahmudur Rahman was present at the press briefing.

Earlier, in March 2025, China expressed its interest to import mango, guava and jackfruit from Bangladesh.​
 

Trade confce between Bangladesh and China June 1
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dhaka 26 May, 2025, 22:59

A daylong ‘Bangladesh-China Conference on Investment and Trade’ will be held on June 1 at ‘Biniyog Bhaban’ (Investment Building) in the city.

Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority and Bangladesh Investment Development Authority are going to jointly organise the event.

Chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus is scheduled to inaugurate the conference as the chief guest while China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao is also expected to join the event.

Around 250 investors and businessmen from about 100 Chinese companies will take part in the conference. The unprecedented scale of the delegation includes representatives from China’s textile, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and agro sectors.

For joining the event, Wang is scheduled to land in the city around noon on 31 May.

During the conference, Chinese and Bangladeshi business representatives will participate in five separate match-making sessions throughout the day, focused on expanding bilateral trade and investment.

According to BIDA officials, sessions will cover sectors such as ready-made garments and textiles, agro-processing, ICT, electronics, and others.​
 

Yunan explores cross-border trade cooperation
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dhaka 26 May, 2025, 23:00

A high-level Chinese delegation led by Liu Jie, deputy director of the Lancang-Mekong Sub-regional Economic and Trade Development Centre of the Department of Commerce in Yunnan province, held a meeting on Monday with Anwar Hossain, vice-chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau of Bangladesh.

The meeting focused on enhancing cross-border trade cooperation between Yunnan and Bangladesh, said a press release.

The EPB vice-chairman provided the delegation with a clear picture of the potential export sectors, investment opportunities, and the way forward to reduce the existing trade gap between the two countries.

During the discussion, the Chinese delegation offered free warehouse facilities and a dedicated product showcase center for Bangladeshi goods in Yunnan.

This initiative aims to support Bangladeshi exporters in gaining better access to the Chinese market, the largest consumer market in the world.

To ensure effective participation of Bangladesh in the upcoming China-South Asia Expo, scheduled to be held from June 19-24, 2025, the delegation assured its support in organising business matchmaking meetings between Bangladeshi exporters and potential Chinese buyers.

This is expected to boost trade ties and promote new export opportunities.

In a significant development for the agricultural sector, the delegation also assured facilitation of market access for Bangladeshi fruit exporters, helping them enter and expand in the Chinese market.

The meeting was also attended by director general (DG) of the EPB Baby Rani Karmokar and its director (Policy) Abu Mukhles Alamgir Hossain.

Officials from the Bangladesh Foreign Trade Institute (BFTI), and representatives from the Bangladesh Agro-Processors’ Association (BAPA), the Fresh Vegetables, Fruits and Allied Exporters Association, the Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC), along with concerned exporters were also present.

The discussions mark a promising step toward deeper economic collaboration between Bangladesh and Yunnan Province under the broader framework of the Lancang-Mekong regional cooperation.​
 

Mango exports to China begins Wednesday

UNB
Published :
May 27, 2025 21:35
Updated :
May 27, 2025 21:35

1748388836040.png


The first consignment of Bangladeshi mangoes will be exported to China on Wednesday and will soon be available in the Chinese market, marking a significant step in agricultural trade between the two countries.

Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin and Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen will join an event marking the export which will be held at the CIP gate of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Wednesday afternoon, a senior official told UNB on Tuesday.

Agriculture Secretary Md Emdad Ullah Mian announced the development at a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital on May 21. “Following Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus’s recent visit to China, the government has intensified efforts to export agricultural products, especially mangoes, to the Chinese market. A shipment of mangoes will be sent from Bangladesh to China this month,” he said.

The secretary added that the government has taken up a long-term plan to ensure the sustainability and timeliness of mango exports to China. “This initiative is part of a broader food security strategy aimed at ensuring safe and nutritious food for all by 2050,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador Yao recently said that the upcoming visit of the largest-ever business delegation from China, led by Chinese Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao, would send a “strong signal” of openness, cooperation, and mutual benefit.

The minister is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on May 31 with a delegation of more than 100 Chinese investors. During the visit, the two sides will co-host a trade and investment exchange event, where hundreds of Chinese and Bangladeshi enterprises are expected to engage and explore further cooperation opportunities.

Ambassador Yao also shared that procedures for importing Bangladeshi jackfruit and guava are ongoing. “We hope that Bangladesh can soon open up Hilsa exports to China—after all, Chinese foodies can’t wait to enjoy this delicious fish on their dining tables,” he said.​
 

Chinese minister due Saturday with big delegation
Maiden mango export to China initiates export diversification


FE REPORT
Published :
May 29, 2025 00:39
Updated :
May 29, 2025 00:39

1748474929971.png


Bangladesh Wednesday sent the maiden consignment of mangoes to China to open wider avenues of diversifying its export basket and enhance its trade on the vast market, officials said.

p16-mango-airportCommerce Adviser of the interim government Sheikh Bashir Uddin and Chinese Ambassador in Bangladesh Yao Wen inaugurated the mango-export event at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), amid an ambiance of optimism about trade expansion.

Mr Bashir termed this the beginning of a new journey in the history of fruit export of the country and hoped mango exports could be increased ten times this year.

He also pointed out that the mangoes are entering the Chinese market duty-free under a new trade-facilitation framework, helping address the bilateral trade imbalance and boost agricultural exports.

"This is just the beginning. We are working to open up new markets in Japan and Europe for Bangladeshi agricultural products."

The consignment was sent to Changsha's Hunan Province. The initial shipment consists of 10 tonnes of fresh mangoes, while Bangladesh aims to export up to 100 tonnes to China this season, officials said.

A freighter of Chinese carrier SF Express operated the flight carrying the mangoes, Chinese embassy officials said.

Mr Bashir, a business magnet-turned functionary in charge of commerce ministry, also hopes the upcoming visit of the Chinese commerce minister will pave the way for huge Chinese investment in Bangladesh.

The Chinese minister is leading the biggest-ever business delegation from China to Bangladesh, the commerce advisor told the function.

"He is a very senior figure in the present administration and a significant development as regards trade and investment between the two countries is expected during his visit," he said.

Responding to a question he said the suspension of the transshipment facilities by India for RMG export did not impact the apparel export of Bangladesh.

The government has taken several steps to expand the air-cargo facilities for exporters, he mentioned.

The Chinese Ambassador, Yao Wen, in his address billed this as a 'historic moment'

"The entry of Bangladeshi mangoes to the Chinese market will not only help expand the bilateral trade volume and improve trade imbalances, more importantly, it reflects the mutually beneficial and win-win essence of our economic cooperation," he said.

Grown in the fertile soils of the Ganges Delta, Bangladeshi mangoes represent green and high-quality agricultural produce, he said, adding that for Chinese consumers, it means more diversified choices in the vegetable basket, and will surely enhance people's wellbeing.

"For Bangladesh, the vast potential of the Chinese market will directly drive industrial upgrading in the mango sector, create more employment opportunities, and contribute to Bangladesh's socioeconomic development.

"Chinese President Xi Jinping has pointed out on several occasions that China's door of opening up will not close, but will only open wider and wider."

He affirms that the exportation of Bangladeshi mangoes to China is just a starting point as China has already initiated market-access review for Bangladeshi guavas and jackfruits.

"We are also discussing import of raw animal hides from Bangladesh, and look forward to the export of Hilsa to China. I am confident that in the near future, an increasing number of high-quality Bangladeshi agricultural products will be stocked on the shelves of Chinese supermarkets, bringing more tangible benefits to the peoples of both countries."

Referring to 'volatile and unstable' international landscape he said the trade wars unilaterally initiated by the United States have severely disrupted the stability of the global economic order.

"All countries, including China and Bangladesh, call for a peaceful world and a stable international environment. China stands ready to work with Bangladesh to continue upholding mutual respect, mutual support, equality, and win-win cooperation."

About the upcoming visit of Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, he said the minister will lead a delegation consisting of over 100 Chinese companies.

He notes that this visit will be a significant opportunity for business communities of both countries to explore more cooperation opportunities, foster more fruitful outcomes in China-Bangladesh economic and trade cooperation, and thereby "elevate our Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership to new heights".​
 

Bangladesh, China sign two MoUs to boost bilateral trade

Published :
May 31, 2025 22:15
Updated :
May 31, 2025 22:19

1748735951525.png


Bangladesh and China today signed two Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) for forming Joint Working Group and on e-commerce affairs to boost bilateral trade, commerce and investment.

Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin and Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao signed the MoUs on behalf of their respective sides at a hotel in the capital today, BSS reports.

Earlier, the Chinese Commerce Minister arrived in Dhaka today to discuss trade and investment opportunities with Bangladesh and elevate the ‘Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership’ between the two countries to a new height.
Wang is leading a delegation consisting of over 100 Chinese companies to visit Bangladesh.

In a meeting with the Chinese delegation led by its Commerce Minister, Bangladesh Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin sought support of Chinese drone technology in the agriculture sector of Bangladesh as this would help play an effective role in strengthening trade and technological cooperation between the two countries, said a Commerce Ministry press release.

Putting emphasis on enhancing the use of drone technology in the country’s agricultural sector, Bashir said that revolution can be brought in using fertilizer, sowing seeds and spraying pesticides in crops through drone technology.

“Chinese experiences and its technology can play a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s agriculture sector,” he added.

Highlighting the benefits of demographic dividends and relatively lower wages in Bangladesh, Bashir sought more Chinese investment in the leather and leather goods, light engineering, agri-machineries, agro- technology, food processing and pharmaceuticals sectors of Bangladesh.

In response, the Chinese Commerce Minister emphasized on enhancing cooperation on technology and investment sectors.

Wang Wentao said that China is ready to support Bangladesh in agricultural and digital technology sectors for boosting productions by using smart agricultural techniques and drone technology.

In response to the Commerce Adviser’s call for supporting Bangladesh in fisheries and tapping marine resources, the Chinese Commerce Minister said that China is ready to support Bangladesh in the fisheries sector and tapping the huge potentials in the maritime sector.

Referring to the successful celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relationship between Bangladesh and China, the Chinese Commerce Minister said that China has been implementing a good number of projects in Bangladesh contributing to the socio-economic development of the country and benefitting a larger section of people.

The meeting was discussed in details for boosting bilateral cooperation in the fields of trade, commerce, investment, and technology.

It was also expressed that Bangladesh-China economic cooperation would be deepened further in the days to come.​
 

Beijing for working together to maintain multilateral trading system, stability

UNB
Published :
Jun 01, 2025 22:07
Updated :
Jun 01, 2025 22:07

1748823532319.png


Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao on Sunday stressed the need for countries, including Bangladesh, to work together in preserving the multilateral trading system and ensuring the stability and smooth functioning of global industrial and supply chains amid the current international climate.

While co-chairing the 15th Bangladesh-China Joint Economic and Trade Committee meeting in Dhaka with Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, the Chinese minister laid emphasis on unity, advocating an equal and orderly multipolar world and inclusive economic globalisation and promoting the construction of an open world economic system.

Adviser Salahuddin said Bangladesh firmly supports multilateralism and free trade and attaches great importance to economic and trade cooperation with China.

He hopes to further expand the export of Bangladeshi products to China, according to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce.

The adviser said Bangladesh is willing to create a good business environment for Chinese companies to invest in Bangladesh, and promote more pragmatic cooperation results between the two countries' enterprises in agriculture, education, medical care and health and other fields.

The two sides had an in-depth exchange of views on issues such as implementing the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, deepening trade, investment and production and supply chain cooperation, and maintaining multilateralism.

Wang said this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Bangladesh.

The relationship between the two countries has been continuously consolidated and deepened, and bilateral economic, and trade cooperation has maintained healthy and stable development.

The minister said China is willing to work with Bangladesh to earnestly implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, promote high-quality joint construction of the 'Belt and Road', promote unimpeded trade, strengthen the integration of production and supply chains.

He laid emphasis on promoting the integrated development of investment and trade, exploring cooperation in emerging fields such as e-commerce and clean energy, and promoting the quality and upgrading of China-Bangladesh economic and trade cooperation.

After the meeting, the two sides jointly signed the Memorandum of Understanding on 'Strengthening Economic Cooperation in Industrial Chain and Supply Chain, between the Ministry of Commerce of China and the Ministry of Finance of Bangladesh.​
 

CA urges Chinese investors to build production hubs in BD
Visiting high-profile Chinese businesses keen to invest here: BIDA head

FE REPORT
Published :
Jun 02, 2025 01:20
Updated :
Jun 02, 2025 01:20

1748824014250.png

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus presents a photograph to visiting Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao at the China-Bangladesh Conference on Investment and Trade, held at the BIDA office in Dhaka's Agargaon on Sunday. — PID

inset-p1Chief Advisor Prof Muhammad Yunus called upon Chinese investors to help transform Bangladesh into a "production hub" as a big band of entrepreneurs from Beijing, led by their commerce minister, are here exploring business prospects.

Speaking at a business meet Sunday in Dhaka, Yunus noted that half of Bangladesh's total workforce is under the age of 26, and this demographic is ready to get engaged in productive work, according to state news agency Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS).

"I urge Chinese investors to make Bangladesh their home and their production hub...the young people are ready to accept that challenge," the head of interim government told his business audience.

He urged Chinese businesses to integrate them into the workforce.

Stressing the importance of reviving the jute industry to strengthen the national economy, Yunus said: "When you talk about jute, it is an emotional issue for Bangladesh."

Jute is often viewed solely as a material for sacks, despite its potential as an eco-friendly fibre that could play a vital role in protecting the environment and the planet.

"Together we can make a wonderful start of jute to give it a right place in our economic programmes," he added.

He also recalled the lost glory of Dhakai Muslin, once a world-renowned and highly prized fabric.

Terming the ongoing visit of the high-profile Chinese business delegation 'historic and significant', Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Ashik Chowdhury said they showed keen interest in investing in Bangladesh.

"We have not seen such a large number of business delegates visiting Bangladesh from a single country before," said the BIDA executive chairman.

He went on: "We see a new ray of hope, a new level of interest from Chinese investors."

Mr. Chowdhury made the observations while briefing newsmen after a daylong 'China-Bangladesh Conference on Investment and Trade' held at the BIDA headquarters in the city's Agargaon area.

BIDA and Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) jointly organised the conference with the participation of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce and the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka.

"Around 250 business delegates of 143 Chinese companies, including Six Fortune 500 ones, took part in the conference," said Mr Chowdhury, who is also the Chairman of the BEZA.

He said renowned companies like Hongdou Group, Shandong Weiqiao Pioneering Group, Global Textile Powerhouse of textile sector, Meide Group, solar photovoltaic manufacturing company Huantai Energy, PowerChina and China Road and Bridge Corporation joined the meet.

The opening session was followed by a series of business-to-business (B2B) or business-to-government (B2G) meetings also.

Besides, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between BEZA and Power China International Group Limited to establish a Chinese Agrivoltaics Economic Zone (EZ) in Chandpur district, the press conference was told.

The delegation mostly comprises representatives from four trade bodies namely China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products (CCCME), China International Chamber of Commerce for the Private Sector (CICCPS), China Chamber of Commerce of Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-Products (CFNA), and China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Textiles (CCCT).

Mr Chowdhury doesn't expect that the delegates would make instant commitments to making investment rather it is a long journey.

"Investment journey is a long process-the first step of the process is to bring them in Bangladesh and make them familiar with the different parts of the investment climate," he said.

The investment promoter hopes the conference will create new scopes for investment gradually in the coming days.

He also expects the ongoing visit of the Chinese businesses and the subsequent conference to yield the desired outcomes in the next six to 24 months.​
 

BIDA chief sees new horizons in Bangladesh-China economic cooperation

Published :
Jun 01, 2025 19:43
Updated :
Jun 01, 2025 19:43

1748824259387.png


Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) and Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun today said new horizons in Bangladesh-China economic cooperation have opened through the visit of the largest-ever Chinese business delegation in Bangladesh.

"The gathering marks a significant milestone in the relationship and growing economic partnership between the two countries. It is the largest-ever Chinese business delegation to visit Bangladesh, comprising around 250 investors and business leaders representing 143 of companies, including some of the largest in China," he said, BSS reports.

Ashik Chowdhury said this while speaking at a press conference on the outcome of a daylong 'Bangladesh-China Conference on Investment and Trade' in the city.

BEZA and BIDA in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce of China and the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka organised the event.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus attended the opening session of the conference as the chief guest while China's Commerce Minister Wang Wentao also joined the session.

Ashik Chowdhury said the main topics of discussion in the technical session were 'Investment Environment and Economic Zones in Bangladesh', 'Joint Ventures in the Garment and Textile Sectors,' 'Chinese Technology Transfer in the Electronics and Machinery Industry' and 'Investment Opportunities in Agriculture and Food Processing Industries'.

"About 550 business representatives from China and Bangladesh participated in the discussion. Chinese businessmen expressed interest in investing in Bangladesh in various sectors," he added.

He said B2B and B2G of the conference more than 100 bilateral discussions were held during the session.

"Entrepreneurs from both countries exchanged views on potential joint projects," he added.

He said a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony was held between BEZA and Power China International Group Limited to establish a Chinese Agrivoltaics Economic Zone in Matlab Uttar Upazila of Chandpur district.​
 

Mango deal sweetens ties between Bangladesh and China
AFP Dhaka
Published: 29 May 2025, 09: 44

1748826412405.png


Bangladesh waved off its first consignment of mangoes to China on Wednesday, a largely symbolic export as Beijing sweetens ties after relations soured between Dhaka and former ally and neighbour India.

Bangladesh, still reeling from the political fallout of a 2024 uprising that ended the autocratic rule of Sheikh Hasina -- who fled by helicopter to New Delhi -- has since been courted by Beijing, India's rival.

"It is such a great pleasure to jointly witness this historic moment, as the first consignment of Bangladesh's premium mangoes sets off for China," China's ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen said, alongside government officials.

Bangladesh, largely encircled by land by India, has seen relations with New Delhi turn icy.

Interim Bangladeshi leader Muhammad Yunus's first state visit was to China, while Bangladesh has also moved closer to Pakistan, India's arch-enemy.

"President Xi Jinping has emphasised on several occasions that China's door of opening up will not close, but will only open wider," Yao said, at a small ceremony at the airport alongside Bangladeshi ministers.

"I am confident that the export of Bangladeshi mangoes to China is just the beginning," he added.

In China, the fruit has a particular historic diplomatic resonance -- including the curious cult of the mango.

After Chairman Mao Zedong was pictured gifting a mango to a group of workers in 1968, during the mania of the Cultural Revolution, the fruit became an object of veneration.

Those mangoes were reportedly a gift from the foreign minister of Pakistan -- and at that time, in 1968, Bangladesh had yet to win its independence from Islamabad.

Export levels are small so far, just 50 tonnes in an initial phase, but both Bangladesh and China said they hoped to increase that.

In the past year, China has sponsored several tours for Dhaka's political party leaders, and has begun hosting Bangladeshi patients in its hospitals.

India has long been wary of China's growing regional clout and the world's two most populous countries compete for influence in South Asia, despite a recent diplomatic thaw.​
 


China playing positive role in regional politics: Mirza Fakhrul

BSS Dhaka
Published: 23 Jun 2025, 23: 04

1750722529045.png

Collected BSS

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, who is leading a party delegation in China, on Monday termed the initiative of the Chinese leadership in Asia-Pacific regional politics as positive.

He said during a bilateral meeting with a Chinese delegation at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, said BNP media cell member Shyrul Kabir Khan.

Fakhrul hoped the positive initiatives of China will be expanded to a multilateral scale.

Li Hongzhong, a politburo member of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Vice Chairman of the National People’s Congress, led the Chinese delegation.

A high-level BNP delegation led by Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir arrived in China today.

Other members of the BNP delegation are- Standing Committee members Mirza Abbas, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Selima Rahman, Chairperson’s Advisors Ismail Zabiullah, Prof Sukomal Barua, Zahir Uddin Swapan, Party Media Cell Convener Prof Dr. Moudud Hossain Alamgir Pavel and Chairperson’s Private Secretary ABM Abdus Sattar.

Li Hongzhong has invited BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman to visit China. The CPC expressed hope that the two parties and the two countries’ relations will reach new height through this visit.

Before the meeting, the BNP delegation visited China Railway Group Limited.​
 

Tarique invited to visit China

1750725427423.png

A bilateral meeting between BNP and Communist Party of China (CPC) held this afternoon (June 23, 2025) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Photo: BNP Media Cell

China National Congress Deputy Li Hongzhong has invited BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman to visit China.

He made the invitation during a bilateral meeting between BNP and Communist Party of China (CPC) held yesterday afternoon at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

The meeting began with CPC Politburo member Li Hongzhong, welcoming the BNP delegation, which was led by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.

Tarique, the eldest son of BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, has been living in London since his release from prison during the state of emergency in 2008.

During the meeting, both sides talked about improving political relations, increasing party-to-party cooperation, and working together for peace and stability in the region, said the leaders.

The CPC expressed hope that the meeting would usher in a new chapter in China-Bangladesh ties. Fakhrul praised China's regional role and said the talks would deepen party and bilateral relations.

Earlier in the day at 2:00pm, a nine-member high-level BNP delegation, visited China Railway Group Limited, where they learned about China's progress in railway and infrastructure development.

The delegation included senior BNP leaders Mirza Abbas, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Selima Rahman, and Chairperson's Advisers Zahir Uddin Swapan, Ismail Zabiullah, Professor Sukomal Barua, party's media cell convener Moudud Hossain Alamgir Pavel and Chairperson's Personal Secretary ABM Abdus Sattar.

Party sources say this trip shows BNP's wish to build stronger ties with China, a major development partner for Bangladesh.

Earlier this year, on February 24, a group of leaders from eight political parties -- including the BNP -- visited China for 11 days.​
 

CPC interested in signing political MoU with BNP

1750811740638.png

Photo: BNP Media Cell

The Communist Party of China (CPC) has shown interest in signing a Political Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the BNP.

This was shared by Liu Jianchao, minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, during a meeting with the visiting BNP delegation.

BNP Media Cell member Shairul Kabir Khan confirmed the development to The Daily Star last night.

The CPC also welcomed BNP's clear position supporting the One-China policy.

During the meeting, BNP leaders congratulated Chinese President Xi Jinping and praised the Belt and Road Initiative.

They called the global development plan "transformative and extraordinary" for helping people around the world.

The BNP also said they hope China will play a bigger role in building infrastructure and creating jobs in Bangladesh.

Later, the CPC's International Department hosted a lunch in honour of the BNP delegation.​
 

Latest Posts

Latest Posts

Back
Top
PKDefense - Recommended Toggle
⬆️ Top
Read Watch War Archive