Published: 10:39 AM, 14 June 2026
Bangladesh seeks stronger trade, investment ties with China
Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Friday reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations with China, emphasizing a partnership founded on mutual respect, sovereignty, equality and shared prosperity. "The government is sincere in building sustainable relations that deliver tangible benefits to the people of both countries," he said.
The minister made the remarks while addressing the inauguration ceremony of "Bangladesh Day" at the 10th China-South Asia Expo and the 30th China Kunming Import & Export Fair 2026, at Kunming, China, according to a press release.
"Today is a special day for us as we celebrate 'Bangladesh Day' in the hospitable and warm city of Kunming," he said, describing the event as a reflection of the deep friendship and mutual trust developed between the two nations over the years. Referring to Bangladesh as "Destination Bangladesh - A Unique Land of Potential," Muktadir said the phrase represents more than a slogan and serves as an invitation for global investors and business leaders to engage with the country's growing economy.
The minister called upon the business community of China's Yunnan Province to expand imports from Bangladesh and explore investment opportunities in key sectors of the country's economy. He later visited stalls at the Bangladesh Pavilion, where exporters are showcasing a wide range of products, including ready-made garments, textiles, pharmaceuticals, jute goods, leather products, plastics and handicrafts. This year's expo has witnessed the largest-ever participation from Bangladesh, with 101 institutions and 175 representatives taking part under the coordination of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) and with support from the Bangladesh Consulate General in Kunming.
As part of the Bangladesh Day programme, a seminar titled "Bangladesh-Sourcing with Quality and Competitiveness" was held, featuring discussions on trade prospects and business cooperation. EPB Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Mohammad Hasan Arif delivered the keynote presentation.
Representatives from the Yunnan Department of Commerce, the Bangladesh-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCCI), the Bangladesh Footwear and Leather Goods Association and the office of Bangladesh's Commercial Counselor in China also participated in the discussion.
Among others, Bangladesh Ambassador to China Md. Nazmul Islam, Yunnan Vice Governor Liu Yang, Deputy Director General of the Yunnan Department of Commerce Li Yi, and President of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) Liu Qi Lin attended the event. The six-day international trade fair, which began on June 11, will continue until June 16, bringing together around 2,300 exhibitors from 68 countries.
