Bangladesh, Saudi for stronger investment ties in maritime sector

Bangladesh, Saudi for stronger investment ties in maritime sector
Photo: Collected

Online Desk

Published: 2026-07-15 15:04:55

Saudi Arabia has signalled its intention to expand investment in Bangladesh, with transport, logistics and maritime infrastructure emerging as key areas for future cooperation between the two countries.

The proposal was discussed during a meeting at Biniyog Bhaban in Dhaka between Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistics, Dr Rumaih Mohammed Al-Rumaih, and Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury, according to a statement issued by BIDA.

Ashik Chowdhury, who also heads the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Authority, led the Bangladesh delegation. Senior officials from BIDA, the PPP Authority and the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) also attended the discussions.

During the meeting, the Saudi deputy minister welcomed Bangladesh’s efforts to encourage private sector participation and improve the country’s investment climate.

He said these reforms closely reflect Saudi Arabia’s own economic transformation plans.

Dr Al-Rumaih said Saudi Arabia is working towards becoming a leading global logistics hub and is interested in creating more opportunities for Saudi businesses to invest in Bangladesh.

He also highlighted the importance of supporting Bangladeshi companies seeking to expand their presence in the Saudi market.

The two sides also reviewed the progress of Red Sea Gateway Terminal (RSGT), which operates in Bangladesh and employs a workforce made up of more than 98 per cent Bangladeshi nationals. The company is considering further investment to modernise terminal operations through advanced technology and greater operational efficiency.

Both delegations agreed that the current level of engagement presents an opportunity to strengthen economic ties and move forward with projects that offer long-term benefits for both countries.

Following the meeting, Ashik Chowdhury said the discussions centred on sectors where Saudi investment interest aligns with Bangladesh’s development priorities.

These include logistics, supply chain infrastructure, cold storage facilities and port development.

He added that Bangladesh is also seeking stronger collaboration in financial services and has already begun engaging with several Saudi companies to promote investment opportunities and encourage long-term business partnerships.