EU Seeks Stronger Trade, Investment Ties with Bangladesh

The European Union has expressed strong interest in deepening trade and investment relations with Bangladesh, highlighting the scope for expanded economic cooperation between the two sides.

The issue was discussed during a meeting between Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir and a delegation led by EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller at the Secretariat on Wednesday.

Both sides reviewed key aspects of bilateral trade, investment opportunities and future economic collaboration. The minister described the EU as one of Bangladesh’s most important trading partners and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to further strengthening ties.

He said the country aims to create a more business-friendly environment to attract foreign investment, noting that economic growth has slowed in recent years and investment inflows have remained limited. With roughly two million people entering the job market annually, he stressed the need for increased investment to generate employment.

The minister also urged European businesses to expand their presence in Bangladesh, assuring policy support to facilitate trade and industrial growth.

Ambassador Miller said the EU is keen to accelerate economic engagement with Bangladesh and emphasised the importance of removing non-tariff barriers to trade. He also underscored the need to diversify Bangladesh’s export basket to ensure sustainable growth in bilateral commerce.

Reaffirming Europe’s long-term partnership with Bangladesh, he highlighted the importance of maintaining fair and competitive conditions for trade between the two sides.

State Minister for Commerce Md Shariful Alam and senior ministry officials attended the meeting. The EU delegation included ambassadors from Spain, Denmark, France, Sweden, Italy, Germany and the Netherlands, along with the bloc’s trade adviser to Bangladesh.