Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus has urged stronger Chinese investment in Bangladesh’s manufacturing sector, saying Chinese firms could help transform the country into a major production hub for global markets. During a meeting with Yang Dongning, Vice-President of China Exim Bank, Prof Yunus highlighted pharmaceuticals, healthcare, green energy, and jute-based industries as top areas for collaboration. He encouraged China to relocate factories to Bangladesh, citing the country’s young workforce and strategic coastal location.
Yang Dongning said Chinese investors are increasingly shifting from infrastructure to manufacturing, expressing interest in green technology, solar panels, textiles, jute, and pharmaceuticals. She and accompanying expert Dr Ma Jun noted that China sees significant potential in Bangladesh’s jute sector, with plans to use up to one million tonnes of jute for green energy, fertiliser, and plastic alternatives through joint ventures. Chinese companies are also exploring opportunities in AI and e-commerce.
Prof Yunus proposed repurposing closed jute mills for new ventures and called for enhanced regional connectivity, including railway links to southern China. He stressed that Chinese manufacturing relocation could boost exports to both Western and Chinese markets.
