Bangladesh has emerged as a favored destination for foreign direct investment (FDI), attracting investments from various countries. Its strategic location, cost-effective labor, and robust economic growth have made it an attractive choice for multinational corporations. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 foreign investments in Bangladesh by country and highlight prominent foreign companies operating in the country.
1. China
China is Bangladesh’s largest trading partner and a significant investor in infrastructure and energy projects. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has strengthened this relationship, with China funding several major projects.
Key Investments:
- Padma Bridge Rail Link Project: Funded by the Export-Import Bank of China, this project enhances connectivity within the country.
- Payra Power Plant: A coal-fired power plant built in collaboration with Chinese companies.
Notable Companies:
- China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC)
- Huawei Technologies Bangladesh
- ZTE Corporation
2. Japan
Japan is one of the most consistent investors in Bangladesh, focusing on industrial zones, infrastructure, and manufacturing.
Key Investments:
- Matarbari Coal Power Plant: A joint project between Bangladesh and Japan to improve energy security.
- Araihazar Economic Zone: Developed by Sumitomo Corporation to attract Japanese investors.
Notable Companies:
- Honda Bangladesh
- Marubeni Corporation
- Mitsui & Co., Ltd.
3. United States
The U.S. invests significantly in Bangladesh’s energy, agriculture, and technology sectors. American companies are also prominent in the country’s garment industry.
Key Investments:
- Chevron Bangladesh: Operates several natural gas fields in the country, supplying a significant portion of Bangladesh’s energy needs.
- ConocoPhillips: Focused on offshore gas exploration.
Notable Companies:
- Chevron
- Coca-Cola Bangladesh
- Microsoft Bangladesh
4. United Kingdom
The UK maintains strong trade and investment ties with Bangladesh, particularly in the financial services and energy sectors.
Key Investments:
- HSBC Bangladesh: A leading player in Bangladesh’s banking sector.
- Unilever Bangladesh: Manufactures and markets consumer goods.
Notable Companies:
- Unilever Bangladesh
- Standard Chartered Bank
- BP (British Petroleum)
5. South Korea
South Korea has made substantial investments in Bangladesh’s textile and electronics sectors, with a focus on export-oriented industries.
Key Investments:
- Youngone Corporation: Operates in the Chittagong Export Processing Zone (EPZ), specializing in textile and garment manufacturing.
- Samsung Electronics: Engaged in the local production and distribution of consumer electronics.
Notable Companies:
- Samsung
- LG Electronics
- Hyundai
6. India
India shares close economic ties with Bangladesh, investing heavily in energy, telecommunications, and pharmaceuticals.
Key Investments:
- Adani Group: Developing coal-based power plants in Bangladesh.
- Reliance Power: Involved in setting up an LNG terminal and power plants.
Notable Companies:
- Airtel Bangladesh
- Marico Bangladesh
- Tata Motors
7. Singapore
Singaporean investors focus on real estate, logistics, and energy sectors in Bangladesh.
Key Investments:
- Summit Power International: Partnering with Singaporean companies to develop energy projects.
- PSA International: Engaged in port and logistics management.
Notable Companies:
- PSA International
- Keppel Corporation
- DBS Bank
8. Malaysia
Malaysia has made significant contributions to Bangladesh’s telecom and construction sectors.
Key Investments:
- Robi Axiata: A leading telecom operator, partially owned by Malaysia’s Axiata Group.
- Real Estate Development: Malaysian companies are involved in residential and commercial construction projects.
Notable Companies:
- Axiata Group
- Petronas
- Berjaya Group
9. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s investments are primarily in energy, construction, and religious infrastructure development.
Key Investments:
- Refinery Projects: Investments in petroleum refining and energy distribution.
- Islamic Infrastructure: Funding for mosque and religious building construction.
Notable Companies:
- Aramco
- Binladin Group
- Al-Rajhi Banking Corporation
10. Germany
Germany focuses on the manufacturing and renewable energy sectors, along with promoting sustainable development.
Key Investments:
- Siemens Bangladesh: Engaged in energy and industrial automation projects.
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ): Supporting development initiatives.
Notable Companies:
- Siemens
- BASF Bangladesh
- DHL Bangladesh
List of Major Foreign Investment Companies in Bangladesh
Here’s a consolidated list of notable foreign companies operating in Bangladesh across various sectors:
- Chevron Bangladesh (USA) – Energy
- Unilever Bangladesh (UK) – Consumer Goods
- Huawei Technologies Bangladesh (China) – Telecommunications
- Samsung Electronics (South Korea) – Electronics
- Honda Bangladesh (Japan) – Automobiles
- Robi Axiata (Malaysia) – Telecommunications
- Marubeni Corporation (Japan) – Infrastructure
- Adani Group (India) – Energy
- Siemens Bangladesh (Germany) – Industrial Automation
- Standard Chartered Bank (UK) – Banking
Conclusion for Foreign Investments
Foreign investment has been a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s economic growth, contributing to job creation, technology transfer, and infrastructure development. Countries like China, Japan, and the United States have led the way, investing in key sectors such as energy, telecommunications, and manufacturing. The government’s efforts to create an investor-friendly environment, coupled with Bangladesh’s strategic advantages, continue to attract foreign companies seeking growth opportunities in South Asia.
As the country continues to develop, fostering partnerships with these international investors will be crucial for sustaining long-term economic progress.
