China has shown strong interest in partnering with Bangladesh to develop seafood processing and export facilities, as revealed by Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen. During a meeting with Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar on Wednesday, 2nd October, Ambassador Wen expressed China’s commitment to enhancing collaboration in Bangladesh’s marine fish industry. The meeting, held at the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, also discussed China’s investment intentions in seafood processing plants in the country.
Chinese private investors are keen to establish seafood processing factories in Bangladesh, focusing on processing and exporting marine fish to China. These processing units would help expand Bangladesh’s seafood exports, catering to China’s growing demand for high-quality seafood.
Apart from marine fish, Ambassador Yao Wen highlighted China’s interest in shrimp, crabs, mud eels (kuchia), jute, jute products, and mangoes from Bangladesh, emphasizing the significant demand for these items in Chinese markets.
Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar praised the increasing cooperation between the two nations, stating that the partnership could potentially secure duty-free access for Bangladeshi products in China, opening doors to substantial trade opportunities. Both sides agreed to work closely on shared interests, particularly in the areas of trade and agriculture.
Key officials at the meeting included Syed Mahmud Belal Haider, Secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, ATM Mustafa Kamal, Additional Secretary, Md Tofazzel Hossain, Additional Secretary, along with senior representatives from the Chinese Embassy.
This collaboration marks a promising step towards strengthening the seafood processing industry in Bangladesh, paving the way for expanded export potential and enhanced economic ties between the two nations.
