Geneva:Invest Bangladesh, the rebranded agency previously known as the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority, has been awarded the "Outstanding LDC Investment Promotion Agency" at the WAIPA Investment Excellence Awards in Geneva, Switzerland. The agency was honored during the 30th World Investment Conference organized by the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) from November 10 to 12.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Riaz Hamidullah, the Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations, received the award on behalf of Invest Bangladesh. The accolade underscores the agency's efforts to improve Bangladesh's investment climate, strengthen support mechanisms, and build an efficient institutional framework for investors. The recognition also highlights key reforms initiated by Invest Bangladesh to streamline investment processes and enhance coordination among government agencies.
The reform journey for Invest Bangladesh began in 2025, involving consultations with nearly 200 local and foreign investors. The agency has implemented measures such as expanding bonded warehouse facilities for exporters, easing foreign borrowing, and resolving issues for major investors like Youngone. Additionally, a Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) heatmap was developed to identify 19 priority sectors for attracting foreign investments.
In March 2026, Invest Bangladesh launched a 180-day investment action plan focusing on infrastructure development and simplified government services. A progress report was published in September, coinciding with the formation of Invest Bangladesh as a consolidated agency for investment promotion, economic zones, and public-private partnerships.
The WAIPA jury commended initiatives like "Banglabiz," an integrated digital investment service platform connecting investors to numerous government services. The agency's role in advancing the APM Terminals' $550 million Laldia Container Terminal project was also recognized.
Invest Bangladesh Chairman Ashik Chowdhury expressed gratitude to the government, stakeholders, and staff for their collective efforts in achieving this recognition. In 2025, Bangladesh saw a 39 percent growth in net foreign direct investment, with Invest Bangladesh currently tracking potential investment proposals worth approximately $1.3 billion from various sectors.