PM pledges support for Bata expansion, exports

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday assured full support for Bata's continued growth in Bangladesh, as the global footwear giant signalled fresh investment plans aimed at expanding production and exports from the country.

The assurance came during a meeting at the Prime Minister's Office in Dhaka with Panos Mytaros, Global CEO of Bata Group, who is visiting Bangladesh for the first time.

The high-level delegation included Faria Yasmin, Managing Director of Bata Bangladesh, along with senior executives Elias Ahmed, Finance Director, and Malik Mehedi Kabir, Human Resources Director.

During the meeting, the prime minister praised Bata's long-standing presence in Bangladesh since 1962 and its contribution to the country's industrial development. He also encouraged the company to further expand export-oriented production from its local manufacturing facilities.

He assured the delegation that the government would closely monitor and support Bata's future growth, pledging cooperation in strengthening its role in Bangladesh's economy.

Expressing gratitude, Mytaros described Bangladesh as an important growth market for Bata and highlighted rising opportunities in the domestic footwear sector.

"It was a great honour to meet the Prime Minister. His encouragement reinforces our commitment to go even further in Bangladesh," he said.

He also outlined Bata's future investment plans, focusing on industrial expansion, innovation, and the introduction of global-standard comfort technologies for local consumers.

Beyond business expansion, discussions also covered Bata's social initiatives, including the "Bata Children Program," which focuses on child welfare and community development.