Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has called on Thai investors to expand their presence in Bangladesh, expressing confidence that deeper commercial links will take economic cooperation between the two nations to a higher level.
Speaking as chief guest at the launch of the three-day Top Thai Brands 2026 trade exhibition at a hotel in Dhaka, the minister highlighted the long-standing bilateral relationship built on mutual trust and cooperation.
The opening ceremony brought together key diplomatic and business figures, including Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh Thitiporn Chirasawadi, officials from the Royal Thai Embassy, representatives from participating commercial firms, and regional trade leaders.
Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir noted that, while trade between the two countries has grown steadily, substantial potential remains unmapped in both investment and export markets.
The minister pointed out that Bangladesh offers an increasingly attractive destination for international capital, supported by its strategic position, large consumer population, skilled workforce, and business-focused policies.
Specific sectors highlighted for prospective Thai investment include agro-processing, tourism, leather manufacturing, ready-made garments, automotive parts, and rubber production.
At the same time, the government is looking to scale up Bangladeshi exports to Thailand, with a focus on pharmaceuticals, processed foods, eco-friendly jute items, leather goods, and light engineering products.
Highlighting the role of international commercial fairs, Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir explained that such gatherings provide essential platforms for direct links between manufacturers, exporters, distributors, and investors.
He noted that events like Top Thai Brands 2026 help create fresh commercial partnerships that actively expand bilateral trade channels.
Outlining ongoing administrative efforts to improve the national business environment, the minister pointed to active measures aimed at easing trade procedures, upgrading infrastructure, driving digital systems, and improving global transport links.
He stressed the importance of responsible foreign direct investment, noting its role in creating employment, introducing advanced technologies, and supporting long-term industrial growth.
Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir urged the visiting Thai companies to build direct ties with local firms and encouraged Bangladeshi entrepreneurs to actively explore opportunities in the Thai market.
Organised by the Department of International Trade Promotion under the Thai Ministry of Commerce, with support from the Commercial Section of the Royal Thai Embassy in Dhaka, the exhibition features 57 Thai companies.
The trade show remains open to visitors at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel until 25 July, running daily from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
