The Japan-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JBCCI) convened the inaugural meeting of its EPA/FTA Standing Committee on Tuesday at its office, focusing on the latest developments in the ongoing Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) negotiations between Bangladesh and Japan.
During the meeting, participants reviewed the outcomes of the sixth round of negotiations and underscored the importance of finalising the agreement by late 2025 or early 2026. This target aligns with Bangladesh’s planned graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in November 2026, which will lead to the elimination of the country’s current preferential trade advantages.
Committee members emphasised the crucial role of private sector involvement in shaping the agreement to ensure it reflects the needs and realities of businesses on both sides. JBCCI, which has been actively participating in negotiations from the beginning, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the treaty for mutual benefit.
To aid informed decision-making, JBCCI had commissioned Policy Exchange of Bangladesh Ltd., a prominent think tank, to produce a comprehensive “EPA Study Report.” The report was officially launched on 13th November 2024, at the Japanese Embassy in Bangladesh, in the presence of key stakeholders and with support from the Japanese government.
The newly established JBCCI Standing Committee, composed of board members and experts from member companies, aims to facilitate effective negotiations and serve as a platform for consolidating private sector insights, policy recommendations, and strategic input into the EPA framework.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of JBCCI’s role as a vital link between public and private sectors, fostering stronger economic ties between Bangladesh and Japan as the country prepares for its post-LDC era.
