Prime Minister Tarique Rahman asked Japanese clothing brand Uniqlo to grow its business footprint inside the Bangladesh garment sector during a meeting in Tokyo on Wednesday. The appeal focused on increasing production in man-made fibres, technical textiles and sustainable apparel.
Daily Sun first reported the meeting held at 10:30am local time. The discussions included Fast Retailing Co Ltd chairman, president and chief executive officer Tadashi Yanai and other company executives.
Tarique praised the brand for its long business ties with the country. He promised government help with land plots, investment approvals and administrative permits for the expansion.
The background
The meeting follows years of business engagement between Uniqlo and local garment suppliers. Both sides also discussed the upcoming implementation of the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement to boost future trade.
What it means
This outreach affects local garment exporters and manufacturing workers by potentially bringing advanced technology and new jobs to the country. Industry observers should watch for upcoming announcements on land allocation and investment approvals.
The Bangladesh delegation included Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and Invest Bangladesh Authority Chairman Ashik Chowdhury. The Japanese team included Fast Retailing Director Takeshi Okazaki and Group Senior Executive Officer Yoshihiro Kunii.