Dhaka: Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) today called for enhanced New Zealand investment in Bangladesh's dairy, agriculture, and food supply chain sectors, highlighting vast opportunities for bilateral cooperation in technology transfer, food processing, and renewable energy. The call came during a courtesy meeting between DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed and New Zealand's Non-resident High Commissioner accredited to Bangladesh, David Pine, held at the DCCI Gulshan Center in the city, said a press release.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Taskeen Ahmed emphasized New Zealand's strong global reputation in dairy production, dairy processing, advanced agriculture, and food safety standards. He noted that Bangladesh could benefit from New Zealand's expertise in dairy processing, livestock feed production, modernization of dairy farms, development of improved cattle breeds, fisheries, veterinary training, and technology transfer. Ahmed urged New Zealand's private sector to undertake both joint venture and independent investments in Bangladesh's agriculture, food processing, consumer goods, food supply chain management, water and climate management, and renewable energy sectors.
Referring to the bilateral trade volume of US$497.43 million in FY2025, Ahmed also called upon New Zealand businesses to increase imports of Bangladeshi products, including readymade garments, leather goods, and ICT-enabled services, to further strengthen bilateral trade ties. David Pine assured that New Zealand would continue duty-free and preferential market access facilities for Bangladeshi products even after Bangladesh graduates from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category.
Pine highlighted the importance of ensuring continued market access for Bangladeshi goods following the country's LDC graduation. He stressed the need to explore trade agreements, including a possible Free Trade Agreement (FTA), to expand bilateral trade and investment opportunities between the two countries. Highlighting evolving global trade realities, he noted that countries should diversify not only their export destinations but also their import sources.
Describing New Zealand as a reliable trade partner known for high standards, strict food safety measures, and GMO-free products, Pine added that the country is interested in establishing a stable and long-term trade framework with Bangladesh. DCCI Senior Vice President Razeev H. Chowdhury and Vice President Md. Salem Sulaiman were also present at the meeting.