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

[Saif]

China: From copycat to innovator

I have just wrapped up an extraordinary week in Shenzhen and Guangzhou as part of the study tour to China, organised by the Stars Foundation, Switzerland. This dynamic programme brought together a vibrant group of global leaders and offered an amazing opportunity to learn directly from...

www.thedailystar.net

China: From copycat to innovator

I have just wrapped up an extraordinary week in Shenzhen and Guangzhou as part of the study tour to China, organised by the Stars Foundation, Switzerland. This dynamic programme brought together a vibrant group of global leaders and offered an amazing opportunity to learn directly from international champions, unicorns, and start-ups.

From autonomous vehicles to AI-powered cityscapes and sustainable technology, the tour provided on-the-ground insights into the state of China's economy and the opportunities it presents for foreign businesses.

Beyond the technological marvels, what stood out to me was China's structured, intentional approach to encouraging innovation. As I return inspired, I would like to share a few key learnings from this journey that may be useful not only for businesses but also for policymakers, educators, and entrepreneurs.

The days when China was merely replicating Western technology are over. Today, homegrown giants are setting global benchmarks in AI, electric vehicles, and quantum computing. This shift from imitation to invention is no accident; it is the result of strategic investment in research and development, education, and talent cultivation.

China's evolution offers a model for any country aiming for long-term competitiveness. Moving from dependency to originality demands deep investment in STEM education and high-tech research.

The innovation boom in China is not only market-driven but also policy-led. Government support through subsidies, tax benefits, R&D incentives, and infrastructure development has played a vital role in transforming ideas into scalable businesses. Programmes such as "Made in China 2025" and state-backed venture capital funds ensure breakthroughs in AI, 5G, and green energy lead to commercial success. Effective innovation requires public-private synergy, and governments must create enabling environments through funding, regulatory sandboxes, and research grants to drive technological progress.

Cities such as Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Beijing have become innovation hubs by concentrating talent, capital, and infrastructure in one place. Shenzhen's transformation from a fishing village into a global tech powerhouse is an example of how geography-based strategy and urban clustering can catalyse innovation.

Entrepreneurs in China are moving fast, experimenting boldly, and scaling globally. A lack of fear around failure, coupled with a massive domestic market to test ideas, allows companies to iterate rapidly. This bold, risk-taking mindset is valuable for anyone navigating fast-changing business environments or aiming to use local markets as testing grounds before international expansion. To encourage this culture, companies must invest in the right talent. China is placing strong emphasis on producing experts in AI, engineering, science, and R&D.

Chinese firms are no longer only competing globally; they are collaborating as well, partnering with Western companies, co-investing, and sharing knowledge. This shift from zero-sum rivalry to shared innovation is reshaping the idea of globalisation. Large companies are now engaged in joint research, co-developing products, and investing in global ventures.

The future belongs to cross-border alliances. Nations and businesses alike can learn from China the value of seeking strategic partnerships over adversarial competition.

One of China's greatest advantages is its ability to deploy innovation at scale and speed. Whether it is electric vehicle adoption, AI integration, or smart city infrastructure, execution velocity sets Chinese firms apart.

From Chinese companies, I have learnt that innovation is not just about ideas. It is about how quickly and efficiently they are executed. That means streamlining regulatory processes, supply chains, and market strategies to stay ahead.

The writer is the chief business officer at The Daily Star.​

 

[Saif]

Chinese envoy meets BNP delegation led by Fakhrul

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen paid a courtesy call on a BNP delegation, led by party secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir

en.prothomalo.com

Chinese envoy meets BNP delegation led by Fakhrul

UNBDhaka
Published: 08 Jul 2025, 22: 04

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen paid a courtesy call on a BNP delegation, led by party secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, on Tuesday.

The meeting was held at around 11 am at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan political office, said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan.

He said the Chinese envoy had a cordial discussion with the BNP leaders, following their recent visit to China.

Apart from Fakhrul, BNP Standing Committee members Mirza Abbas, Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, Begum Selima Rahman and the BNP Chairperson’s Special Assistant ABM Abdus Sattar were present.

Details of the discussion were not disclosed, but party sources said they exchanged views on matters of mutual interest.

On 22 June, a high-level nine-member BNP delegation, led by Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, visited China for five days at the invitation of the Communist Party of China (CPC).​

 

[Saif]

Beijing seeks to fast-track investment treaty with Dhaka, no matter who leads!

We sincerely hope that our Bangladeshi friends will take it seriously and act promptly, said Ambassador Yao while speaking at a seminar.

en.prothomalo.com

Beijing seeks to fast-track investment treaty with Dhaka, no matter who leads!

UNB Dhaka
Published: 09 Jul 2025, 19: 17

Chinese ambassador in Bangladesh, Yao Wen Tanvir Ahmed

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen on Wednesday said no matter who leads Bangladesh, China will continue to increase trade and investment in the country, supporting its sustainable development and the improvement of people's livelihoods.

Speaking at a seminar in the capital, he said a sound investment environment requires institutional safeguards and hoped that Bangladesh will work with China towards the same direction to expedite the launch of negotiations on upgrading the Bangladesh-China bilateral investment treaty and Free Trade Agreement (FTI) between the two countries.

He said these efforts will help further bolster the confidence and determination of Chinese enterprises to invest in Bangladesh.

“We sincerely hope that our Bangladeshi friends will take it seriously and act promptly,” said Ambassador Yao while speaking at the seminar.

Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, who spoke at the seminar, said they have a tendency of promising things nut not delivering.

“But in the government, we are trying to change that attitude and culture. Hopefully, you will see significant improvement,” he said.

China has become the largest source of foreign direct investment in Bangladesh since the interim government took office.

The Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB) hosted the seminar titled ‘China-Bangladesh Industrial and Supply Chain Cooperation’ where ‘Industry Reports’ by the CEAB was released.

Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, along with representatives from the concerned agencies and departments of the Bangladesh government and business leaders from both countries were present.

He said China stands ready to work with Bangladesh to follow the strategic guidance of the two leaders’ important consensus, take the Golden Jubilee as a new starting point, advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, promote the integration of industrial and supply chains as well as investment and trade.

“Together, we can elevate our economic and trade relations to new heights, and further contribute to the China-Bangladesh Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership,” he said.

The conference featured in-depth research reports from specialised branches of CEAB, covering power and energy, roads and bridges, harbor, textile and garments, trade and services, railway and civil aviation, information and communication technology and water and environment.

These reports aim to identify market trends, investment opportunities and challenges, facilitating collaboration between Bangladeshi and Chinese enterprises under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Ambassador Yao said with the joint efforts of both countries, Chinese enterprises will continue to thrive in Bangladesh and contribute to its economic and social development as well as the improvement of people's livelihoods.

In the first quarter of this year, Chinese investment in Bangladesh surged by 3.7 times. Since last August, nearly 20 Chinese companies have signed investment agreements with Bangladeshi partners, with a total intended investment exceeding US$400 million.

At Bangladesh’s current stage of development, he said, improving the business environment is crucial for fostering an open economy and achieving steady and sustainable development.

“Now, Bangladesh is also at a critical juncture of transformation and industrial upgrading. Under the able leadership of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, the economy keeps stabilising and improving, and the business environment is steadily enhancing, making the country emerge as a new investment hotspot in South Asia,” Ambassador Yao said.

Since Chinese enterprises constitute the largest group of foreign investors in Bangladesh, he said, it would be invaluable for the Bangladeshi friends to hear from their experiences and suggestions, which originate from their long-term operations here and are reflected in these ten reports.

“They crystallise the collective wisdom of Chinese enterprises in Bangladesh. I believe that they will serve as an important reference for the ongoing economic reforms in Bangladesh,” the Ambassador said.

In the first quarter of this year, Chinese investment in Bangladesh surged by 3.7 times. Since last August, nearly 20 Chinese companies have signed investment agreements with Bangladeshi partners, with a total intended investment exceeding US$400 million.

China has become the largest source of foreign direct investment in Bangladesh since the interim government took office.

The Chattogram Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone is about to start construction.

The cooperation documents for the Chinese Agrivoltaics Economic Zone at Baherchar Island have been signed, and the China-Bangladesh Mongla Port Economic Zone is progressing steadily, the Ambassador said.

He said China not only supports the current interim government but also has full confidence in Bangladesh’s future elected government.​

 

[Saif]

China committed to boosting trade, investment ties with Bangladesh

Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen has reaffirmed China's commitment to increasing trade and investment in Bangladesh, stating that support for the country's development will remain steady regardless of its political leadership. "China will continue to support Bangladesh's sustainable development and the

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

China committed to boosting trade, investment ties with Bangladesh
Says Chinese envoy

FE REPORT
Published :
Jul 10, 2025 10:02
Updated :
Jul 10, 2025 10:02

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen. File photo

Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen has reaffirmed China's commitment to increasing trade and investment in Bangladesh, stating that support for the country's development will remain steady regardless of its political leadership.

"China will continue to support Bangladesh's sustainable development and the improvement of people's livelihoods, no matter who is in power," he said while addressing a seminar on 'China-Bangladesh industrial and supply chain cooperation' at a city hotel on Wednesday.

The Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB), the organiser of the seminar, also launched a set of detailed industry reports covering key sectors such as energy, transport, ICT, and water management.

The Chinese envoy stressed the importance of a sound institutional framework to attract investment and urged Bangladesh to accelerate negotiations on upgrading bilateral investment treaty and launching a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries.

"We sincerely hope that our Bangladeshi friends will take it seriously and act promptly," he said.

Highlighting the recent developments, he said since last August nearly 20 Chinese firms have signed investment deals worth over US$400 million with Bangladeshi partners.

In the first quarter of 2025 alone, Chinese investment in Bangladesh surged by 3.7 times, the envoy said, adding that now China is the largest source of foreign direct investment in Bangladesh since the interim government took office.

Ambassador Yao praised the country's ongoing reforms and economic transformation under the leadership of Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus.

"At this critical juncture of industrial upgrading, Bangladesh is emerging as a new investment hotspot in South Asia," he noted.

He also called for continued collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative, stating: "Together, we can elevate economic and trade relations to new heights and further contribute to the China-Bangladesh Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership."

Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun acknowledged challenges in the country's investment environment.

"We have a tendency to promise but not deliver. However, the government is working to change this culture. Hopefully, you will see significant improvements," he said.

He further said a BIDA office will soon be established to facilitate Chinese investment and proposed the creation of a China Town in Dhaka to strengthen ties further.

Other senior officials, including Chairman of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission Jalal Ahmed, ICT Secretary Sheesh Haider Chowdhury and representatives from various ministries addressed the seminar.

CEAB President Han Kun and senior officials from shipping, industries, roads, and water supply departments also spoke on the occasion.

"China is our trusted friend and the top trading partner," Mr. Jalal Ahmed said, highlighting potential for deeper cooperation in the energy sector.

ICT Secretary Chowdhury mentioned China's involvement in Bangladesh's high-tech and cybersecurity sectors and welcomed more investment, especially in high-tech parks.

Replying to question, Ambassador Yao told reporters that the recent tripartite meeting, involving Bangladesh, China, and Pakistan, was held in Kunming, China.

Terming the meeting a step toward "concrete cooperation" in 12 identified areas, including education, environment, water resources, and industry, he said: "Our cooperation is based on mutual trust and openness. It is not aimed at any third country.

Chinese ambassador expressed his confidence in Bangladesh's current and future governments, stating that Chinese enterprises are ready to play a larger role in the country's economic and social progress.​

 

[Saif]

No peace through concession -- only struggle secures Tomorrow

On July 7, the United States once again wielded the tariff stick, imposing so-called "reciprocal tariffs" on 14 of its trading partners, including Bangladesh. By conducting such unilateral bullying behavior, the U.S. putsits selfish gains over the global public good, and disrupts the multilateral t

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

No peace through concession -- only struggle secures Tomorrow

Yao Wen
Published :
Jul 11, 2025 23:28
Updated :
Jul 11, 2025 23:28

On July 7, the United States once again wielded the tariff stick, imposing so-called "reciprocal tariffs" on 14 of its trading partners, including Bangladesh. By conducting such unilateral bullying behavior, the U.S. putsits selfish gains over the global public good, and disrupts the multilateral trading system. It also severely undermines the normal international trade order, and has provoked worldwide anger and opposition.

China firmly opposes the U.S. actions. It maintains that there's no winner in tariff and trade wars, and that protectionism harms the interests of all parties. Imposing tariffs is not the right solution. If more countries follow the U.S. example by raising tariffs and focusing solely on their own interests, the world will be further divided, and plunge back to the law of the jungle, where the strong prey on the weak. No country will be immune to it, and everyone will become a victim.

Faced with U.S. bullying and coercion, what will China do? History and reality have taught us that peace can only be preserved through struggle, while compromise leads only to its demise. China's policy has been firm and consistent: If the U.S. wants to fight, we will fight to the end; if it wants to talk, the door remains open. If the United States intends to decouple from China, it is decoupling from opportunities and development, and moving backward in history.

With China's resolute struggle, the U.S. has repeatedly requested economic and trade negotiations with China. After thorough consideration, China agreed to engage in talks with America. In May, the China-U.S. high-level economic and trade meeting in Geneva yielded positive outcomes. After that, from June 9-10, the two sides held the first meeting of the China-US economic and trade consultation mechanism in London. A principled consensus was reached on implementing the important mutual understanding reached in the phone conversation between the two leaders, and furthering the results of the Geneva meeting. New progress was made in resolving the economic and trade concerns of both sides.

The de-escalation of China-U.S. trade tensions benefits both countries and the world at large. The image of China as a responsible, reliable, and trustworthy nation has taken root in the hearts of people around the world.

China's practice of safeguarding its own interests and upholding global economic and trade rules boils down to two principles: First, resolute counterattack and counter-check in kind. Second, no acceptance of anyforced treaty of peace. Negotiations must be conducted on an equal footing based on mutual respect. This approach also offers valuable experience for other countries victimized by America's abuse of tariffs.

Bangladesh boasts its position as the world's second-largest exporter of ready-made garments(RMG). It is earned not by chance but through the hard work of its diligent people. Over 80 per cent of Bangladesh's exports to the U.S. consist of affordable, high-quality RMG, which meets American market demand with lower prices, delivering an excellent consumer experience for the American people.

It is a direct beneficiary of trade with Bangladesh, and it is universally known that the U.S. is the biggest beneficiary of economic globalization and trade liberalization. The world owes the U.S. nothing, and neither does Bangladesh.

China firmly supports Bangladesh in safeguarding its interests and hopes to see Bangladesh resolve its economic and trade differences with the U.S. through equal consultations. China also believes that Bangladesh will resolutely defend international economic and trade rules and the multilateral trading system, always standing on the side of fairness, justice, and the right side of history.

China will continue to support Bangladesh's economic and social development and improvement of people's livelihoods through concrete actions. Over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations, win-win cooperation has always been the essence of China-Bangladesh trade ties. Against the backdrop of increasing global uncertainties-notably the challenges posed to China, Bangladesh and other countries by America's indiscriminate tariff measures, China remains committed to working hand in hand with Bangladesh towards common development and shared prosperity, firmly delivering benefits to the peoples of both nations.

China has remained Bangladesh's largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years. From January to May this year, China exported US$3.47 billion's worth of textile intermediates to Bangladesh, a 5 percent growth year-on-year. At the end of May this year, the first shipment of fresh Bangladeshi mangoes successfully entered the Chinese market. China is also actively accelerating the approval process for the import of other quality Bangladeshi agricultural products, including jackfruit and guava.

In particular, China's zero-tariff treatment policy on 100% of taxable items of Bangladeshi products which will extend until the end of 2028, has created significant opportunities for its development. In contrast, the United States has imposed a 35% tariff on Bangladesh, one of the least developed countries in the world, which is both unreasonable and unethical.

China-Bangladesh cooperation in investment has also yielded fruitful results. In the first quarter of this year, Chinese investment in Bangladesh surged by 370%. Since the formation of the interim government, nearly 20 Chinese enterprises have signed investment agreements with their Bangladeshi partners, with a total intended investment exceeding US$400 million, making China the largest investor in Bangladesh since the formation of the interim government.

On 1 June, China's Minister of Commerce Mr. Wang Wentao led a delegation of nearly 150 Chinese enterprises to visit Bangladesh. Among them, more than 40 companies expressed investment intentions in such sectors as agriculture and fisheries, textiles and garments, clean energy, and tourism development. Breakthroughs have been achieved in the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone Project, the Agricultural-PV Integration Park on Banshkhali Island, and the China-Bangladesh Mongla Port Economic Zone (CBMPEZ). I am confident that in the near future, China will become Bangladesh's largest source of foreign investment.

China-Bangladesh cooperation is also deeply rooted in people's livelihoods, bringing tangible benefits to the Bangladeshi people. Chinese hospitals are open to Bangladeshi patients seeking medical treatment. China has donated medical equipment worth over US$2.1 million to Bangladesh, including automated rehabilitation center, ventilators and mobile surgical vehicle, as well as dengue testing kits worth US$42,000 and more than 15,000 COVID-19 test kits. To support Bangladesh in flood relief, China has provided life-saving equipment including inflatable boats, life vests, and generators worth US$1.5 million.

Furthermore, China will assist in constructing a modern, 1000-bed comprehensive hospital in Bangladesh. The China-aided Burn Unit of Chittagong Medical College Hospital is under construction. China is also positively considering building a residential hall for female students at the University of Dhaka. China is always ready to provide support to Bangladesh within its capacity, helping the friendship between the two countries blossom like flowers in the hearts of both peoples.

As Bangladesh strives to uphold its development rights, defend against external shocks, and safeguard its independence, sovereignty, and core interests, China will stand firmly by its side-as its most reliable friend and development partner. Guided by the important consensus reached by the two leaders during the visit of Hon'ble Chief Adviser to China in March this year, and taking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as a new starting point, China will continue to work hand in hand with Bangladesh, and strive to advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, further deepen the China-Bangladesh comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, and jointly safeguard international fairness and justice.

Yao Wen is ambassador of People's Republic of China to Bangladesh​

 

[Saif]

China, Canada vow stronger trade, Rohingya aid

China and Canada expressed their commitment to strengthening trade, investment, and humanitarian cooperation with Bangladesh while assuring continued support to address the protracted Rohingya crisis...

www.newagebd.net

China, Canada vow stronger trade, Rohingya aid
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dhaka 11 July, 2025, 01:15

China and Canada expressed their commitment to strengthening trade, investment, and humanitarian cooperation with Bangladesh while assuring continued support to address the protracted Rohingya crisis.

The assurances came during separate meetings between foreign adviser Md Touhid Hossain and the foreign ministers of China and Canada on the sidelines of the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum ministerial meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, according to message.

During Touhid’s meeting with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi, both sides expressed satisfaction over the trajectory of bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation across priority sectors.

Wang Yi conveyed Beijing’s full support for the ongoing reform initiatives under the interim government, led by chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, assuring cooperation in areas including medical tourism and water management.

The Chinese minister also reiterated his country’s keen interest in expanding investments in Bangladesh, particularly in the textile, energy, and light engineering sectors, following the recent China Investment Conference in Dhaka.

Touhid, expressing deep appreciation for China’s political and development support, underscored the urgent need for a sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis and sought Beijing’s continued support in this regard.

He also expressed Dhaka’s expectations of Beijing’s cooperation at regional and multilateral platforms, including the United Nations regarding the Rohingya crisis.

Later in the day, the adviser met Canadian foreign minister Anita Anand, where discussions centred on expanding bilateral relations with a focus on trade diversification and building resilience in the Bangladesh-Canada partnership.

Anita reaffirmed Ottawa’s support in addressing the longstanding Rohingya crisis and lauded Bangladesh’s continued humanitarian efforts in hosting the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals.

Bangladesh high commissioner to Malaysia Md Shameem Ahsan, director general at the ministry of foreign affairs Md Forhadul Islam, and other senior officials were present during the meetings.

The foreign adviser is leading the Bangladesh delegation at the 32nd ARF ministerial meeting, scheduled to be held on Friday, where Bangladesh is expected to highlight its commitment to regional peace, security, and sustainable development under the current interim government.​

 

[Saif]

China donates more Covid-19 test kits to Bangladesh

The Chinese Embassy in Dhaka has donated a fresh batch of Covid-19 testing kits to Bangladesh as part of its continued support for the country’s health sector. The donation was made in response to a request from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of Bangladesh, aiming to ease pressure

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

China donates more Covid-19 test kits to Bangladesh

BSS
Published :
Jul 23, 2025 19:40
Updated :
Jul 23, 2025 19:40

The Chinese Embassy in Dhaka has donated a fresh batch of Covid-19 testing kits to Bangladesh as part of its continued support for the country’s health sector.

The donation was made in response to a request from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of Bangladesh, aiming to ease pressure on local healthcare facilities involved in Covid-19 testing and treatment, said a Chinese embassy press release.

A brief handover ceremony was held in the capital on Tuesday where Chinese Embassy Counselor Li Shaopeng and Md. Halimur Rashid, Line Director of the Communicable Disease Control (CDC), were present.

Speaking on the occasion, Counselor Li Shaopeng said the emergency support reflects the strong cooperation between the two countries in the health sector.

“China is committed to working with Bangladesh to promote the vision of a ‘Global Community of Health for All’ and ensure that joint efforts continue to benefit the people of both nations,” he said.

The Chinese Embassy has been extending various forms of support to Bangladesh since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, including medical equipment, vaccines, and technical cooperation.​

 

[Saif]

Chinese investors interested to key sectors: BIDA

Bangladesh Investment Development Authority has said Chinese investors have demonstrated strong interest in Bangladesh’s key sectors during a series of bilateral engagements between a Bangladesh delegation and the Chinese investors in Shanghai and Guangzhou...

www.newagebd.net

Chinese investors interested to key sectors: BIDA
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dhaka 27 July, 2025, 22:51

Bangladesh Investment Development Authority has said Chinese investors have demonstrated strong interest in Bangladesh’s key sectors during a series of bilateral engagements between a Bangladesh delegation and the Chinese investors in Shanghai and Guangzhou.

Ashik Chowdhury, executive chairman of BIDA and the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), led the Bangladesh delegation to China covering Shanghai and Guangzhou from 20 to 26 July, said a press release on Sunday.

More than 100 Chinese investors took part in an investment seminar jointly organized by BIDA and the Embassy of Bangladesh in Shanghai on 21 July.

Chinese investors Handa Industries and New Tiger Energy shared their investment experiences in Bangladesh and offered insights on the country’s evolving investment landscape during the seminar.

Alongside the seminar, the delegation held over 25 bilateral meetings with companies exploring new or expanded investments in Bangladesh. Key sectors of interest included renewable energy, ready-made garments (RMG), healthcare, and consumer electronics.

‘We are encouraged by the positive engagement from Chinese companies,’ said Ashik Chowdhury.

‘These interactions allowed us to highlight recent policy progress in Bangladesh, particularly in areas such as currency stability and the simplification of investment procedures. We were pleased to receive positive feedback from Chinese investors on these initiatives,’ he added.

The delegation comprising senior officials from BIDA and BEZA was accompanied by representatives from CitiBank NA, EBL, HSBC and Standard Chartered.

The team also explored avenues for future collaboration with prominent Chinese business associations and members of the non-resident Bangladeshi (NRB) community.

In addition, early discussions were held on establishing BIDA’s first overseas office to support sustained investor engagement and facilitation in East Asia.​

 

[Saif]

Handa to invest $250m in Bangladesh, create 25,000 jobs

Handa Industries Co, a Hong Kong-based textile and apparel chain, has announced it will invest 250 million USD in Bangladesh. Handa Industries Co, Chairman Han Chun announced the plan as he meet Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna on Tuesday, reports UNB. Handa

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Handa to invest $250m in Bangladesh, create 25,000 jobs

Published :
Jul 29, 2025 20:44
Updated :
Jul 29, 2025 21:10

Handa Industries Co, a Hong Kong-based textile and apparel chain, has announced it will invest 250 million USD in Bangladesh.

Handa Industries Co, Chairman Han Chun announced the plan as he meet Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna on Tuesday, reports UNB.

Handa had initially planned to invest 150 million USD in Bangladesh’s textile sector and signed a memorandum of understanding with Bangladesh authorities during the Bangladesh Investment Summit in April 2025.

Following further assessments and with strong support from Bangladesh authorities, Handa has since increased its investment plan to approximately USD 250 million.

The company has now decided to set up three factories in Bangladesh—two garment processing and one knitting and dyeing unit, which are expected to create 25,000 jobs.

“We decided to increase our investment as we got confidence after talks with the officials of government agencies, including BIDA (Bangladesh Investment Development Authority), BEZA (Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority) and BEPZA (Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority),” said Han Chun.

“We would like to bring the latest technologies to Bangladesh’s garment and textiles industries through our projects,” he said.

BIDA, BEZA and BEPZA officials said this is one of largest single Chinese investments in Bangladesh’s textile sector.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus welcomed the investment plan of Handa Industries Ltd. “You take the leadership in Chinese investment in Bangladesh’s textile sector and encourage other Chinese investors to come here,” he said.

He also urged Handa Industries Ltd. to train Bangladeshi designers to enable them to learn the taste of buyers.

Han Chun presented the Chief Adviser with a design of their factory that they are going to set up in the Mirsarai economic zone. “It looks like a beautiful painting to me,” said the Chief Adviser, hailing the design.

The land lease agreement for the garment factory in Mirsarai will be signed on Wednesday with an investment value of 80 million USD in phase-1.

The finalisation of land and other facilities for phase-2 is under process now and is expected to be finished by the end of 2025.

BIDA executive chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud bin Harun, Principal Secretary Md Siraj Uddin Miah, principal coordinator for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Lamiya Morshed, BEPZA executive chairman Abul Kalam Mohammad Ziaur Rahman, and Handa Industries Ltd. President Heng Zeli were present at the meeting.​

 

[Saif]

A Chinese journalist is talking with BIDA chairperson Ashik Chowdhury in Bengali. The journalist speaks beautiful Bengali and I am very impressed. They talked about the ways and means to attract more Chinese investments in Bangladesh.

 

[Saif]

What can Bangladesh learn from China’s rise?

True, Bangladesh has made some progress in digitalisation, but much of it remains uneven. Services are often bureaucratic, digital tools remain underutilised, and infrastructure gaps persist.

www.thedailystar.net

What can Bangladesh learn from China’s rise?

While many Chinese cities use AI-powered systems to regulate traffic and ensure commuter safety, Dhaka suffers from chaos, broken signals, and inadequate services, causing severe social and economic losses. FILE PHOTO: NAIMUR RAHMAN

How do we harness our demographic dividend, accelerate inclusive growth, and build future-ready systems in a rapidly changing world? This is a question we must ask as Bangladesh enters a new phase of its development journey. A compelling answer, I believe, lies in the story of China, which has transformed itself in just a few decades through strategic investments in education, technology, and infrastructure. My recent visit to the country has left me convinced that Bangladesh has much to learn from this transformation.

China's progress is deeply rooted in its careful investment in education, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). From primary schools to postgraduate research institutes, it has embedded innovation, experimentation, and industry relevance into its academic culture.

At a university in Guangzhou, I saw students not just attending lectures but also actively working in state-of-the-art labs, partnering with companies on research, and even launching start-ups right from the campus. It's a model that blends theory with practice—one that Bangladesh must work towards.

Unfortunately, most of our universities still operate in silos. Curricula are outdated, many faculty members lack exposure to global developments, and there's little interaction between academia and industry. Unless we align education with market demands and technological shifts, we risk producing graduates unprepared for the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

One way forward is to forge stronger ties between Bangladeshi and Chinese institutions. Joint degree programmes, research collaborations, technology transfer, and faculty exchanges should be key to our higher education strategy. Such collaborations can also extend to our skills development centres, especially outside Dhaka, to ensure broader access to quality learning.

Technology and artificial intelligence (AI) have been central to China's transformation. In cities like Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing, I saw AI-powered traffic lights adjusting in real time to ease congestion, facial recognition systems streamlining access to metro stations and hotels, and drones delivering goods to people's doorsteps. These were not futuristic concepts; they were everyday tools accessible to ordinary citizens.

True, Bangladesh has made some progress in digitalisation, but much of it remains uneven. Services are often bureaucratic, digital tools remain underutilised, and infrastructure gaps persist. If we want to truly leap ahead, we need to develop our own tech and AI ecosystems. For instance, the ICT Division, in partnership with local universities and Chinese tech firms, among others, could initiate joint ventures to build AI-based traffic control systems, smart city platforms, and customised e-governance solutions. By co-developing technology rather than merely importing it, we not only retain value but also grow local talent and generate employment.

We also need to empower our youth to become innovators, not just users of technology. Through mentorship, innovation hubs, and a Bangladesh-China start-up bridge, our young entrepreneurs could access the capital, guidance, and networks they need to scale their ideas.

As things stand, few aspects of daily life expose the gap between China and Bangladesh as starkly as traffic management. While many Chinese cities use AI-powered systems to regulate traffic, manage public transport, and ensure commuter safety, Dhaka suffers from chaos, broken signals, and inadequate services, causing severe social and economic losses. To address this, we can adopt smart traffic solutions through partnerships with Chinese planners and tech firms. AI-driven traffic systems, digital public transport networks, and low-cost smart cards could transform urban mobility if designed with accessibility in mind. This would benefit everyone, ranging from rickshaw-pullers to students and working-class commuters.

One of the most eye-opening experiences during my visit was observing China's health-tech revolution. Even in relatively remote areas, people accessed healthcare through digital appointment systems, mobile diagnosis apps, and AI-assisted doctors. Rural clinics were equipped with low-cost devices that could detect early signs of disease, connect patients to specialists in urban centres, and maintain digital health records with seamless efficiency. For Bangladesh, where rural health infrastructure is often poor and specialist care is concentrated in a few urban centres, this kind of model could be revolutionary. We don't necessarily need to build mega-hospitals in every upazila. Instead, what we need is a decentralised, tech-enabled healthcare model.

With support from Chinese firms and institutions, we could roll out AI-based diagnostic tools at community clinics, train health workers to use them, and connect clinics to tertiary care centres through telemedicine. Simple devices like portable ECG machines, digital thermometers, and automated prescription systems could make a real difference to people's lives.

China's cities also offer a lesson in urban planning. This is a country where cities are planned around people, sustainability, and efficiency. Parks, public spaces, walkways, and waste management systems are designed to serve communities, not just elites. In the cities, I saw how mixed-use urban zones combined housing, shopping, recreation, and public transport in a compact, eco-friendly design. Smart lighting, waste segregation, green buildings, and efficient energy use are built into the urban fabric.

In contrast, our cities suffer from unplanned growth, unsafe construction, and environmental degradation. To reverse this, we must go beyond short-term real estate incentives and develop a long-term vision for sustainable, inclusive urban spaces.

Through collaboration with Chinese urban development institutes and investment in training our city planners, Bangladesh can adopt and adapt models of green city design. Pilot projects in secondary cities like Khulna, Barishal, or Sylhet, focusing on walkability, water management, and smart utilities, can further emphasise that sustainable urbanisation is possible beyond Dhaka.

Ultimately, what impressed me most in China was not the technology itself, but how it was deployed with a deep understanding of people's needs. Development, after all, is not just about GDP or tall buildings; it's about the quality of everyday life.

For Bangladesh, the takeaway is simple but powerful. We don't need to become another China. We need to become the best version of ourselves—smart, inclusive, green, and future-ready. That transformation cannot come from the government alone. It requires the collective vision and effort of educators, researchers, health workers, technologists, urban planners, and citizens.

Md Abbas is a journalist at The Daily Star.​

 

[Saif]

Maintaining a balanced relation challenging

We have been able to convince the US that our relationship with China is not a threat or harmful to them. It is mainly an economic relationship.

en.prothomalo.com

Maintaining a balanced relation challenging
Md Touhid Hossain
Published: 14 Aug 2025, 08: 45

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain BSS

Maintaining a balance in international relations is always a challenge. This challenge has become even greater over the past year. We have said from the very beginning that we want a “good working relationship” with India based on mutual interests and respect. And this relationship will take into account public expectations in the context of the post-5 August changed situation.

The people of Bangladesh have not said that relations with India should deteriorate. What they want is for the relationship between the two countries to be founded on mutual interests and mutual respect.

A large section of the population believes that the previous government did not uphold this in Bangladesh–India relations. They did not give importance to the country’s interests. So, the importance we have placed on maintaining good relations while safeguarding the interests of both countries is a challenge for us.

China itself knows, and we have been able to make them understand that Bangladesh has always maintained a good relationship with the country since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1975. Even when opposing parties were in power in Bangladesh, relations continued to progress. In this continuity, Bangladesh’s closeness with China has increased over the past year.

Although there was discomfort momentarily over reciprocal tariffs, overall, relations with the United States have been quite good over the past year. We have been able to convince the US that our relationship with China is not a threat or harmful to them. It is mainly an economic relationship. We must maintain good relations with both the US and China for the sake of our own interest.

In relations with Pakistan, we are not doing anything “out of the way”. Like many other countries, we are trying to establish a normal relationship with Pakistan, focusing on facilitating business, investment, and the movement of people.

There is no need for an economically and politically hostile relationship with Pakistan. A hostile atmosphere toward Pakistan was created unnecessarily in the past. We have moved away from that. While normalising relations with Pakistan, three unresolved issues remain on the discussion table.

The Rohingya crisis has become more complicated. A new situation will emerge in Rakhine after the end of the civil war in Myanmar. At that point, the international community must exert the necessary pressure in a timely manner. Then the Rohingyas can be repatriated.

Approval for establishing the UN Human Rights High Commissioner’s mission in Dhaka was given after thorough review, considering the country’s interests. It was not launched exactly in the manner the United Nations had initially proposed. We had human rights issues before, and we still do. With the opening of this UN mission, there is now an opportunity for both sides to work directly on human rights issues.

Initiatives have been taken to make public services more accessible in Bangladesh’s consular missions abroad. A consulate is being opened in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Another consulate will be opened in Saudi Arabia. To ease public suffering in Oman, an initiative has been taken to deliver passports through Oman Post.

However, the main challenge lies in the economy. Investors do not like political uncertainty. Our government will not remain in office for the long term. Even so, we have had to assure investors that if they bring investment proposals, the next government will not block them. Despite that, the amount of domestic and foreign investment is not encouraging. As a result, the challenge in the economic sector remains.​