Japan-Bangladesh Corridor Poised for Growth Amid Optimism and Reform

StandardChartered Bangladesh, in association with Japan External Trade Organization(JETRO), and key government institutions, recently hosted a high-level economicbriefing spotlighting the strategic importance of the Japan-Bangladesh economiccorridor. The event brought together senior representatives from StandardChartered, the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), JapanInternational Cooperation Agency (JICA), Japan External Trade Organization(JETRO), and the Embassy of Japan, along with business leaders and investorsfrom both nations.

As shifting global trade dynamics heighten interest inSouth Asia, the event underscored growing confidence in Bangladesh’s economicresilience and reinforced the commitment of public and private sectorstakeholders to unlocking new opportunities. From macroeconomic stability tobold reforms—leaders on both sides shared optimism, insights, and a sharedvision for the future. With over 300 Japanese companies already operating inBangladesh, the next chapter of this partnership is one of scale, sustainability,and shared prosperity.

Naser Ezaz Bijoy, CEO, Standard Chartered Bangladesh, said, "Japan has been an unwaveringfriend to Bangladesh since independence—our partnership is rooted not just inpolicy, but in deep people-to-people ties. We are seeing encouraging signsacross key economic indicators, and the outlook is more stable than it has beenin years. With the right reforms and collaboration, Bangladesh has everypotential to become a trillion-dollar economy within the next five years."

Yusuke Asai, CEO, Standard Chartered Japan, said, "Despite global shifts, twothings remain unchanged—Standard Chartered’s commitment to the Japan-Bangladeshcorridor and the unconditional friendship between our two nations. Japan is oneof the world’s most globalized economies, and our companies are well-positionedto expand their footprint in Bangladesh. With over 300 Japanese firms alreadypresent, the time is ripe to scale up investment and strengthen our role inBangladesh’s growth story."

ChowdhuryAshik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman, BangladeshInvestment Development Authority (BIDA), acknowledged the path ahead, "We recognise the challengesinvestors face, and we are committed to transparency and reform. But progressrequires continued pressure from the business community. Our aim is to create astable, investor-friendly environment—one that attracts long-term investmentand reinforces economic resilience."

H.E. Saida Shinichi, Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh, affirmed Japan’s enduringpartnership, "As afaithful strategic partner, Japan remains committed to investing in Bangladeshand supporting critical infrastructure. Our ongoing Economic PartnershipAgreement negotiations further highlight our shared ambition, with significantopportunities emerging across agro-business, fisheries, automotive, andtextiles."

Enamul Huque, Country Chief Risk Officer, StandardChartered Bangladesh,added, "With reservesstabilizing and exports on a consistent growth trajectory, Bangladesh remains acompetitive and attractive destination for international investors—includingthose from Japan. As a leading foreign bank in Bangladesh and one of thelargest foreign investors, Standard Chartered remains committed to promotingBangladesh as a positive investment destination.”

Yuji Ando, Country Representative, JETRO, reinforced investorconfidence, "Bangladeshranks number two in Asia in terms of business expansion potential, second onlyto India. Despite global economic and political uncertainty, existing Japanesecompanies are eager to expand their operations—underscoring their long-termcommitment to this market."

Ichiguchi Tomohide, Chief Representative, JICA Bangladesh, said, "While progress has been made,much work remains to improve the investment climate. At JICA, we are workingclosely with JETRO and other partners to push forward strategicinitiatives—from transformative infrastructure projects like the Matarbarideep-sea port and MRTs to streamlining investment procedures.”

Theevent concluded on a note of shared optimism, with participants expressingstrong confidence in Bangladesh’s strategic potential—underpinned by alongstanding partnership with Japan and a collective commitment to shaping aresilient future.

Asa long-standing partner in Bangladesh’s economic journey, Standard Charteredremains committed to supporting foreign investment and collaboration, ensuringa conducive environment for Japanese businesses to thrive in Bangladesh.