Standard Chartered Bangladesh, in collaboration with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and key government institutions, recently hosted a high-profile economic briefing highlighting the strategic significance of the Japan-Bangladesh economic corridor.
The event gathered senior representatives from Standard Chartered, the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), JETRO, and the Embassy of Japan.
Business leaders and investors from both countries also participated, reaffirming growing confidence in Bangladesh’s economic resilience and the commitment to strengthening bilateral trade and investment, according to a press release.
With shifting global trade dynamics increasing interest in South Asia, discussions centered on macroeconomic stability, bold reforms, and new opportunities for collaboration. Japan, a longstanding economic partner, already has over 300 companies operating in Bangladesh—setting the stage for sustainable growth and deeper cooperation.
Naser Ezaz Bijoy, CEO of Standard Chartered Bangladesh, emphasised Japan’s unwavering support for Bangladesh since its independence, noting positive trends across key economic indicators. “With the right reforms and collaboration, Bangladesh has the potential to become a trillion-dollar economy within the next five years,” he said.
Yusuke Asai, CEO of Standard Chartered Japan, echoed this sentiment, highlighting his bank’s commitment to the Japan-Bangladesh economic corridor. “Japanese firms are well-positioned to expand their footprint in Bangladesh. The time is right to scale up investments and strengthen our role in its economic growth story,” he remarked.
BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun acknowledged the challenges investors face and assured continued efforts toward transparency and reform. “Our goal is to create a stable, investor-friendly environment that attracts long-term investments and reinforces economic resilience,” he stated.
Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Saida Shinichi, affirmed Japan’s dedication to investing in Bangladesh and advancing crucial infrastructure projects. “The ongoing Economic Partnership Agreement negotiations highlight our shared ambition, with immense opportunities emerging across agro-business, fisheries, automotive, and textiles,” he noted.
Enamul Huque, Country Chief Risk Officer at Standard Chartered Bangladesh, emphasised Bangladesh’s competitive position, citing stable reserves and consistent export growth. “Bangladesh remains an attractive destination for international investors—including those from Japan,” he said.
Yuji Ando, Country Representative at JETRO, reinforced investor confidence by stating, “Bangladesh ranks second in Asia for business expansion potential, just behind India. Despite global uncertainties, Japanese companies are eager to expand their presence, underscoring their long-term commitment to this market.”
Ichiguchi Tomohide, Chief Representative of JICA Bangladesh, acknowledged ongoing efforts to improve the investment climate. “We are working closely with JETRO and other partners to drive forward strategic initiatives—such as transformative infrastructure projects like the Matarbari deep-sea port and metro rail systems,” he explained.
The event concluded on a note of optimism, with participants expressing confidence in Bangladesh’s strategic potential, strengthened by its enduring partnership with Japan. Standard Chartered reaffirmed its role in promoting foreign investment and collaboration, ensuring a conducive environment for Japanese businesses to thrive in Bangladesh.