FBCCI seeks Spanish help in manufacturing sector
UNB, Dhaka
As part of an effort to widen the scopes of trade and investment, the FBCCI has urged the Spanish government and private sector to bring in their low-cost technology to Bangladesh's manufacturing sector. The plea was made when Spanish Ambassador Rafael Conde called on FBCCI President Abdul Awal Mintoo at Federation Bhaban in Dhaka yesterday Welcoming the ambassador, the FBCCI chief said Bangladesh and Spain have excellent trade relation, but there are scopes to expand it further. Mintoo suggested exchange of trade delegations to explore trade and investment opportunities. Bilateral trade is now in favour of Bangladesh. In 2001-2002, Bangladesh's export to Spain amounted US$ 132.65 million and imports from that country stood at only US$ 19.21 million. The FBCCI leader invited Spanish businessmen to participate in the next Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF)-2004 to display their products for attracting Bangladeshi buyers. He also urged for Spain's direct investment in Bangladesh taking full advantages of the country's attractive incentives offered by the government. Spanish investors with their low-cost technology could help Bangladesh increase its manufacturing capability and competitiveness in the international market. Ambassador Rafael Conde assured that Spain would extend all support and cooperation in increasing bilateral trade and investment in Bangladesh. Both the Ambassador and the FBCCI President stressed on signing of a Joint Chamber Agreement between the two apex chambers immediately. FBCCI would invite the Spanish National Chamber of Commerce and Industry to visit Bangladesh and make preparation for signing a Joint Chamber Agreement for further expansion of trade, goodwill and understanding. Vice presidents of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) Kamaluddin Ahmed and Abul Quasem Haider, and Director Dewan Sultan Ahmed were present during the meeting.
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