The government will support US investors as American companies plan to invest another $5 billion in Bangladesh over the next five years, Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir said yesterday.

He made the remarks at the 30th anniversary celebration of the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) at the Radisson Blu Water Garden Hotel in Dhaka.

According to Muktadir, AmCham member companies have already invested more than $5 billion in Bangladesh. They also contribute over 20 percent of the country’s national tax revenue.

He said Bangladesh wants to attract more US companies, advanced technologies, and global expertise.

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen also highlighted the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) reached earlier this year.

He said the agreement could strengthen bilateral economic ties by lowering tariffs, expanding market access, improving intellectual property protection, and supporting stronger labour, environmental, and anti-corruption standards.

Christensen also said the US wants to become a leading energy investment partner for Bangladesh. He noted that the US-Bangladesh Energy Memorandum of Understanding, signed in May, is intended to help American companies compete fairly in government procurement.

AmCham President Syed Mohammad Kamal called on the government to provide a clear energy roadmap so investors can plan with greater certainty.

Source: The Daily Star