The Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) is set to establish its first overseas office in China as part of a broader effort to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), strengthen investor engagement, and position Bangladesh as a preferred destination for global manufacturers seeking alternative production hubs. The initiative is expected to become operational within the next six months, subject to final approval. 

The proposed office will serve as a direct point of contact for Chinese investors, providing information on investment opportunities in Bangladesh, addressing investor inquiries, and facilitating coordination with relevant government agencies. By maintaining a local presence in one of the world’s largest sources of outbound investment, Bangladesh aims to improve investor outreach and streamline investment facilitation processes. 

The move comes at a time when global supply chains are undergoing significant realignment due to rising production costs in China, evolving trade dynamics, and growing interest among manufacturers in diversifying production locations. Bangladesh is seeking to leverage these shifts by promoting its competitive manufacturing base, strategic location, and expanding investment ecosystem. 

China has emerged as one of Bangladesh’s leading sources of foreign investment in recent years. According to BIDA data, mainland China invested approximately USD 4.38 billion in Bangladesh between 2019 and 2024, while total FDI stock from China and Hong Kong reached USD 2.67 billion as of September 2024. Chinese investment has been particularly active in manufacturing, textiles, apparel, and infrastructure-related sectors. 

Bangladesh has also witnessed growing engagement from Chinese businesses through investment forums and bilateral trade initiatives. Recent Bangladesh–China investment engagements have attracted large delegations of Chinese investors and business leaders, reflecting increasing interest in opportunities across manufacturing, infrastructure, renewable energy, logistics, and technology sectors. 

The establishment of a dedicated BIDA office in China is expected to strengthen investment promotion efforts, enhance investor confidence, and support Bangladesh’s ambition to attract higher levels of foreign investment as it advances its economic transformation agenda. 

Source: The Business Standard