The government aims to attract an additional $5 billion in investment from the United States.

Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir stated that the government and the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) will work together with the aim of attracting an additional $5 billion in US investment to Bangladesh over the next five years.

He made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the 30th-anniversary celebration of AmCham, held at a hotel in the capital on Saturday (September 12) evening.

The Commerce Minister said the government is prepared to work closely with US companies to boost investment, create jobs, facilitate technology transfer, and expand economic opportunities in Bangladesh.

He noted that AmCham has played a pivotal role in strengthening economic ties between Bangladesh and the United States over the past three decades. The organization serves not merely as a business association but also as an effective bridge between the government and the private sector.

Khandaker Abdul Muktadir mentioned that bilateral trade between Bangladesh and the US currently exceeds $13 billion. Simultaneously, US companies are contributing to Bangladesh's economy through investment, technology, employment generation, knowledge sharing, and the adoption of global best practices.

He stated that AmCham member companies have invested over $5 billion in Bangladesh and contribute more than 20 percent to the national revenue. In his view, this investment reflects the confidence US businesspeople have in Bangladesh's economy.

The Commerce Minister added that AmCham leaders recently met with the Prime Minister and expressed interest in bringing an additional $5 billion in US investment to Bangladesh over the next five years. The government will provide the necessary support to realize this initiative.

He assured that if genuine business-related issues are brought to the government's attention, his ministry and the government would make every effort to find practical solutions. In this context, he cited the example of how a complex issue regarding industrial and commercial licenses for Corteva Bangladesh—an AmCham member company—was resolved within a month through government intervention.

Describing Bangladesh as a country with immense investment potential, Khandaker Abdul Muktadir highlighted its strategic location, young and skilled workforce, large domestic market, and significant prospects across various sectors, including technology, digital innovation, healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services.

However, he also remarked that potential alone is not enough to attract investment. He stated that investors require predictability, an environment conducive to doing business, efficient trade facilitation, and a stable policy framework.

The Commerce Minister noted that the government is working to simplify business processes, enhance digitalization, expand trade facilitation, and create a more investment-friendly environment.

Expressing hope for the further strengthening of future economic ties between Bangladesh and the United States, he anticipated increased US investment in Bangladesh, the integration of modern technology and global expertise, and expanded market access for Bangladeshi goods and services in the US.

He emphasized that achieving this goal requires a strong partnership among the government, the business community, investors, development partners, and organizations like AmCham.

Describing the 30th anniversary of AmCham as an opportunity to unlock new future possibilities, the Commerce Minister called for building a stronger and more enduring economic partnership between Bangladesh and the United States through increased trade, investment, innovation, and job creation.