Second KAFCO plant also discussed
Marubeni Explores AI Investment in Bangladesh
- Talks covered investment in AI, cybersecurity, IT, fertiliser and energy
- A plan to launch an AI-powered data centre within 12 months was discussed
- The parties explored a second KAFCO plant and technology cooperation in agriculture
Bangladesh and Japanese business representatives have discussed opportunities to expand investment in artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and technology-driven services. The talks also covered a potential AI data centre, modern technology for agriculture, investment in fertiliser and energy, and the possibility of establishing a second KAFCO fertiliser plant.
A high-level delegation from Marubeni Corporation, one of Japan’s major business and investment groups, paid a courtesy visit to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Prime Minister’s Office in the Secretariat on Sunday, October 11. The delegation was led by Marubeni President and Chief Executive Officer Masayuki Omoto.
During the meeting, the prime minister said the government was working to create a favourable environment for domestic and foreign investment to unlock the country’s economic potential and generate employment. He welcomed Marubeni’s interest in investing in Bangladesh’s information technology, fertiliser and energy sectors.
Referring to Marubeni’s longstanding business relationship with Bangladesh in jute products, Tarique Rahman stressed the importance of expanding existing ties and increasing cooperation in new sectors. Marubeni representatives responded that they were giving serious consideration to Bangladesh’s investment potential.
The meeting also addressed the growing opportunities in Bangladesh’s IT sector and the need to develop a skilled workforce. The government’s plans to strengthen the IT and cybersecurity skills of engineering graduates were discussed. Participants noted that Bangladesh could become an important international service hub by leveraging its skilled workforce, technological capabilities and competitive services.
The parties also discussed a plan to launch an AI-powered data centre in Bangladesh within the next 12 months. Marubeni expressed strong interest in the sector. They also explored potential investment and technical cooperation to expand the use of modern technology and AI in agriculture.
The discussions included expanding Marubeni’s existing investment in Karnaphuli Fertilizer Company Limited (KAFCO) in Chattogram and the possibility of establishing a second KAFCO plant in Bangladesh. Marubeni expressed positive interest in the proposal.
The meeting also expressed optimism that the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Bangladesh and Japan, once implemented, would further strengthen trade and investment ties between the two countries.
Those attending on behalf of the Bangladesh government included State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Information and Technology Rehan Asif Asad, and the prime minister’s Special Assistant Shakirul Islam Khan.
Marubeni was also represented by Susumu Wakamori, the company’s chief executive for Southwest Asia, and Manabu Sugawara, its country head in Bangladesh.
//DBTech/BNNO/SMP/MIST//
