MM Rahmatullah: The Japan-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JBCCI) has called for a more investment-friendly business environment, stronger policy support and sustainable industrial development to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and strengthen Bangladesh`s economic competitiveness.
The chamber made the call at the national business summit, Investors Meetup 3.0 | 2026, held at the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Bhaban in Agargaon, Dhaka, on November 7.
JBCCI participated in the event as a supporting organisation. The summit was jointly organised by JCI Dhaka Achievers and BDFairs, with support from the Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI) and Leather Foundation of Bangladesh (LFB).
The event brought together policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs and business leaders to explore ways to improve the investment climate, simplify business procedures and identify emerging opportunities in sustainable industries and the global halal market.
Anwar-ul Alam Chowdhury (Parvez), president of BCI, attended the opening session as chief guest. He stressed the need for consistent policies, regulatory reforms, lower industrial production costs and stronger institutions to make Bangladesh more competitive in international markets.
Representing JBCCI, its immediate past president Tareq Rafi Bhuiyan (Jun), also managing director of New Vision Solutions Ltd, moderated a panel discussion on sustainable industry and environmental, social and governance (ESG) investment.
The discussion highlighted the importance of energy efficiency, green financing, sustainable technologies and responsible industrial practices in attracting international investors and maintaining access to global markets.
Another JBCCI representative, Hiroaki Oura, chief representative of Itochu Corporation and a director of the chamber, joined a panel discussion on ease of doing business, FDI and investment opportunities.
Participants discussed investment facilitation, regulatory challenges and the need to create favourable conditions for both domestic and foreign investors.
The summit also highlighted Bangladesh`s potential in the global halal industry, particularly through expanding exports, introducing internationally recognised certification systems, ensuring supply-chain transparency and developing a dedicated institutional framework.
Discussions further emphasised renewable energy, waste management, decarbonisation and sustainable financing as key drivers of future industrial growth.
JBCCI said it would continue promoting Bangladesh-Japan economic cooperation, facilitating business partnerships and supporting initiatives aimed at attracting investment and ensuring long-term economic growth.