BEPZA invites Japanese investors to expand footprint in Bangladesh
The Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) hosted a high-level investment seminar in Tokyo today, inviting Japanese businesses to invest in Bangladesh's export processing zones and the BEPZA Economic Zone.
The event follows the recent visit of Honourable Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus to Japan, which resulted in several MoUs aimed at deepening bilateral ties in investment, energy, and technology.
Jointly supported by Maruhisa Pacific Co. Ltd., Yokohama Labels and Printing (BD) Co. Ltd., YKK Group, and Japan-based NRBs, the seminar drew over 125 participants from Japanese industrial and investment groups.
BEPZA Executive Chairman Major General Abul Kalam Mohammad Ziaur Rahman, BSP, ndc, psc, delivered the keynote, calling Japan a "trusted partner" and encouraging investors to explore Bangladesh as a gateway to South and Southeast Asia.
"Bangladesh is where potential meets performance. We offer not only cost-effective, skilled labour but also a stable, investment-friendly environment," he said.
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He highlighted BEPZA's One Stop Service for investors, which includes tax holidays, duty-free import of capital machinery and raw materials, legal protections, and expedited administrative support.
Bangladesh Ambassador to Japan, Md. Daud Ali assured investors of continued support, including one-hour visa processing for both business and tourism purposes. Attendees also urged the Embassy to initiate direct flights between Dhaka and Narita to ease connectivity.
Former JETRO Bangladesh Country Director Yuji Ando discussed the advantages of EPZ investment while also noting the challenges that he hoped would be addressed. Long-time investors Mr. Hiraishi Kiminobo (Maruhisa Pacific) and Mr. Kano Tetsuro (Yokohama Labels and Printing BD) shared their positive experiences in Adamjee EPZ and encouraged fellow Japanese firms to follow suit.
Md. Tanvir Hossain, Executive Director (Investment Promotion), presented a detailed overview of BEPZA's infrastructure, services, and investment opportunities.
To date, 450 enterprises from 38 countries have invested over US$ 7.05 billion in BEPZA zones, employing more than 500,000 workers. EPZs contributed 17% of national exports and 30% of total FDI last year. Japanese firms alone have invested US$ 621 million, employing over 17,700 workers.
