Economy
PM Sheikh Hasina Pledges to Transform Bangladesh into a Top Investment Destination
In a recent address during her visit to China, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina underscored the pivotal role China has played in bolstering Bangladesh’s infrastructure projects, technological advancements, and economic growth. Highlighting the resilience and progress of Bangladesh, she detailed the nation’s remarkable journey, especially during the challenging times of the pandemic.
Bangladesh stands out as one of the few economies that continued to thrive amid the global health crisis. The country is on track to graduate from the UN’s Least Developed Countries (LDC) list in 2026, showcasing its resilience and ability to surmount challenges. Over the past half-decade, Bangladesh has maintained a strategic economic growth average of 6.75%, expanding its economy from USD 102 billion in 2009 to over USD 460 billion in 2023. Just before the pandemic struck, the economy boasted a growth rate of 8.1%.
The Prime Minister highlighted key economic indicators, noting that Bangladesh’s per capita income has reached USD 2,784. The country’s export volume has surpassed the USD 50 billion mark, and it received a net Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) of USD 2.8 billion in 2022. Additionally, Bangladesh is among the top remittance-earning countries globally and ranks as the world’s 33rd largest economy. Projections suggest that by the first half of the 2030s, Bangladesh could ascend to become the 24th largest economy. The nation offers one of the most liberal investment regimes globally, facilitated by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), which provides comprehensive services to foreign investors under one roof. The government has also implemented significant reforms to create a more business-friendly environment, enhancing the ease of doing business and ensuring a secure and reputable investment landscape.
Prime Minister Hasina stated, “We aim to position Bangladesh as one of the most attractive destinations in the world.” To achieve sustainable economic growth, the government has formulated a logistics policy aimed at boosting domestic and international trade and investment through the construction of a world-class, technology-based, time and cost-efficient, and environmentally friendly logistics system. Significant investments are being made in both digital and physical infrastructure to transform Bangladesh into a comprehensive logistics hub with regional and international connectivity.
Among the megaprojects completed are the Padma Multipurpose Bridge, the Karnaphuli River Tunnel (Bangabandhu Tunnel), the Matarbari Deep Sea Port, the expanded third terminal at Dhaka International Airport, the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, and the Dhaka Metro Rail System. These projects are pivotal in strengthening the nation’s infrastructure.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the nationwide coverage of electricity and internet access, highlighting the launch of Bangladesh’s first communication satellite, Bangabandhu-1, as a milestone in technological advancement. Additionally, Bangladesh boasts the world’s second-largest number of registered IT freelancers. The vision is to build a smart Bangladesh by 2041, encompassing a smart citizenry, smart government, smart economy, and smart society. Continuous upgrades to seaports, airports, and land routes are being made to meet international standards, ensuring efficient and seamless logistics.
One of Bangladesh’s greatest assets is its youthful and dynamic workforce, with a median age of around 27 years. This population is characterized by energy, dedication, sincerity, and strong work ethics. The nation’s youth are poised to actively participate in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
In her address to the Chinese business community, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina extended a warm invitation to invest in Bangladesh, highlighting the nation’s advantageous pool of skilled and semi-skilled labor, which is both cost-effective and highly capable.
“I encourage the Chinese business community to consider key sectors in Bangladesh. We welcome investments in our infrastructure, energy, renewable energy, and logistics sectors,” she stated. She emphasized opportunities in climate-resilient smart agriculture, agro-processing, and the establishment of a special tourism zone where China can invest in real estate and hospitality. The Prime Minister also urged Chinese investors to explore fruitful ventures in Bangladesh’s capital markets. The Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) is actively enhancing the capital market to make it more attractive to foreign investors. Notable progress includes the development of a robust bond market and the introduction of derivatives products, which will diversify and expand financial markets. There are numerous opportunities in renewable energy, pest management, and green technologies. “Investors will find that Bangladesh is committed to ensuring profitable business operations,” she assured.
Bangladesh is eager to increase its exports to China, particularly in textiles, garments, leather goods, jute products, and agricultural items. The country welcomes Chinese investment in export-oriented industries to help diversify its export basket and reduce trade deficits. To enhance business cooperation, the Prime Minister encouraged Chinese companies to form joint ventures with Bangladeshi firms.
“The partnership between Bangladesh and China holds unbounded promise,” she declared. “Our shared vision for economic growth, technological advancement, and sustainable development forms the cornerstone of our bilateral relationship. Together, we can create a prosperous future that benefits both our countries and people.”
Prime Minister Hasina warmly invited the Chinese business community to visit Bangladesh, explore the abundant opportunities, and experience the warmth and hospitality of its people. “Let us work together to build a stronger, more prosperous, and more connected world,” she concluded.
Prime Minister Hasina’s visit to China, under the banner of “The Rise of Bengal Tiger: Summit on Trade, Business, and Investment Opportunities Between Bangladesh & China,” showcased Bangladesh’s immense potential to Chinese businesses, highlighting the synergistic opportunities for growth and collaboration between the two nations.
The event was attended by Salman Fazlur Rahman, the Prime Minister’s Private Industry and Investment Advisor; Abul Hasan Mahmud, the Finance Minister; Md. Atiqul Islam, the Mayor of Dhaka North City Corporation; Nasrul Hamid, the State Minister for Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources; Zunaid Ahmed Palak, the State Minister for Post, Telecommunications, and Information Technology; Ahasanul Islam Titu, the State Minister for Commerce; Mohammad Tofazzal Hossain Miah, the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister; ambassadors, various institutional and individual investors, and stakeholders.
Other notable speakers at the event included Lokman Hossain Miah, the Executive Chairman of BIDA; Yao Wen, the Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh; and investors, industrialists, and businesspeople from China and Bangladesh.
Expatriate Bangladeshis sent approximately US$ 2.11 billion in remittances during the first 28 days of September in the fiscal year 2024-25, according to data released by Bangladesh Bank on 29 September.
Of this total, state-owned and specialised banks handled $679.10 million, while private banks received $1.43 billion in remittances.
Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has vowed to expedite reforms and hold elections swiftly. Yunus, who recently assumed the role after the collapse of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year administration, expressed his commitment during an interview with Tokyo-based news outlet NHK WORLD in New York on Sunday. He was attending the United Nations General Assembly at the time.
Following mass student-led protests that ended Hasina’s long-standing rule in August, Yunus stepped in as the leader of the caretaker government. Known for founding Grameen Bank, an institution providing microloans to the underprivileged, Yunus, along with the bank, earned the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his efforts in poverty alleviation.
During the interview, Yunus emphasized that the interim government’s primary mission is to implement reforms promptly and ensure elections are held as soon as the groundwork is complete. He underscored the importance of success, stating, “Failure is not something that we can accept.”
Addressing the pivotal role of students in the ousting of the Hasina administration, Yunus acknowledged the sacrifices made by young people, referring to their involvement as part of a “revolution.” He highlighted his intention to engage the younger generation in shaping policy.
Furthermore, Yunus called for continued support from Japan, Bangladesh’s largest donor, during this crucial transition period. He stressed that Japan’s assistance is vital to stabilizing Bangladesh’s economy and fostering a democratic foundation in the nation.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the Adviser for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, announced today that steps will be taken to restrict the use of polythene shopping bags to safeguard future generations.
Starting from October 1, polythene bags will be banned in shopping malls, followed by a ban in kitchen markets from November 1.
“Everyone must take responsibility and stop using polythene voluntarily. Action against polythene producers will begin from November 1,” Rizwana Hasan stated during a seminar.
The Department of Environment (DoE) organized the seminar to raise public awareness about alternatives to banned polythene bags.
Rizwana Hasan highlighted that the restriction on polythene will be executed in phases according to legal provisions, and discussions with shopping centers and store owners are ongoing to ensure a smooth transition.
She also announced plans to make the government secretariat a plastic-free zone by December.
Other speakers at the seminar included Environment Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed, DoE Director General Dr. Abdul Hamid, Director Rajinara Begum, President of the Shop Owners Association Muhammad Helal Uddin, and Md. Arifur Rahman Bhuiyan, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science at BUP. They discussed the harmful effects of polythene and the need for alternative products.
Earlier, Rizwana Hasan inaugurated a fair showcasing eco-friendly alternatives to polythene bags and visited 24 stalls. The fair featured products from government and private entrepreneurs, including reusable bags, jute bags, paper bags, and items made from bamboo and cane.
