DCCI seeks New Zealand investment in dairy, food supply chain sector

Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) today (20 May) called for enhanced New Zealand investment in Bangladesh's dairy, agriculture, and food supply chain sectors, highlighting vast opportunities for bilateral cooperation in technology transfer, food processing, and renewable energy.

The call came during a courtesy meeting between DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed and New Zealand's Non-resident High Commissioner accredited to Bangladesh, David Pine, held at the DCCI Gulshan Center in the city, said a press release.

Speaking at the meeting, Taskeen Ahmed said New Zealand has established a strong global reputation in dairy production, dairy processing, advanced agriculture, and food safety standards.

He noted that Bangladesh could greatly benefit from New Zealand's expertise in dairy processing and livestock feed production, modernization of dairy farms, development of improved cattle breeds, fisheries, veterinary training, and technology transfer.

He urged New Zealand's private sector to undertake both joint venture and independent investments in Bangladesh's agriculture, food processing, consumer goods, food supply chain management, water and climate management, and renewable energy sectors.

Referring to the bilateral trade volume of US$497.43 million in FY2025, the DCCI President also called upon New Zealand businesses to increase imports of Bangladeshi products, including readymade garments, leather goods, and ICT-enabled services, to further strengthen bilateral trade ties.

David Pine said New Zealand would continue duty-free and preferential market access facilities for Bangladeshi products even after Bangladesh graduates from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category.

He said New Zealand has been placing special importance on ensuring continued market access for Bangladeshi goods following the country's LDC graduation.

The envoy also stressed the need to explore trade agreements, including a possible Free Trade Agreement (FTA), to expand bilateral trade and investment opportunities between the two countries.

Highlighting evolving global trade realities, he said countries should diversify not only their export destinations but also their import sources. 

He described New Zealand as a reliable trade partner known for high standards, strict food safety measures, and GMO-free products, adding that the country is interested in establishing a stable and long-term trade framework with Bangladesh.

DCCI Senior Vice President Razeev H. Chowdhury and Vice President Md. Salem Sulaiman were also present at the meeting.