Businessmen from the United Kingdom have shown their interest to get involved in launching ventures in Bangladesh.
The visiting 10-member business delegation from Chambers Wales held a business networking meeting with Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) at the DCCI Auditorium in Dhaka yesterday.
"The UK is the third largest export destination of Bangladesh and we kept maintaining a positive trade balance with the UK," said DCCI chief.
He informed that bilateral trade reached approximately $4.11 billion in the fiscal year 2020-21, of which, Bangladesh exports around $3.75 billion.
The UK is the second largest foreign investor in Bangladesh. To make mutually beneficial economic relations, upon Brexit and LDC graduation of Bangladesh, FTA or CEPA can be signed to expedite bilateral economic relations, he added.
DCCI chief urged for setting up a Trade Support desk in association with Chambers Wales to assist likely trade deals and business proposals for the British investors.
“Moreover, we can conduct joint research to identify market needs aiming at the UK and Welsh market for export growth in the promising sectors,” he added.
“It’s a changed and different Bangladesh,” he added. He said, “Now it is time for action and execution as we are serious about business. UK investors are keen to do partnerships here in Bangladesh with their state-of-the- art intellect, knowledge and skills to help Bangladesh for its journey towards being a developed nation.”
Paul Slevin admired the preeminent role of the Bangladeshi private sector in building the economy, he said.
Later, he said that UK investors are already here and more eager to do business in Bangladesh and they are being engaged with various new ventures already.
DCCI Senior Vice President Arman Haque, directors Sameer Sattar and Malik Talha Ismail Bari also spoke on the occasion.