Senior Correspondent, Dhaka:
Trade and investment ties between Bangladesh and China continued to deepen in the first half of 2026, with bilateral trade reaching a record US$12.8 billion, according to the Chinese embassy in Dhaka. The figure represents a 10.6 percent year-on-year increase and underscores China’s continued importance to Bangladesh’s external trade.
China has remained Bangladesh‘s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years from 2010 to 2025. However, the expansion of bilateral trade also highlights the importance of improving Bangladesh’s export capacity and diversifying the composition of trade.
Recent efforts to increase Bangladeshi exports to China could contribute to that objective. Fresh mangoes and jackfruits have gained market access, while Bangladesh is seeking access for guavas and aromatic rice. A joint action plan is also being implemented to strengthen export capacity and improve the structure of bilateral trade.
Investment is emerging as another significant component of the relationship. China’s cumulative investment in Bangladesh stood at around US$3.6 billion by June 2026, while Chinese direct investment reportedly rose about 50 percent in 2025. The China Economic and Industrial Zone in Chattogram, launched in July, has attracted intended investments of US$500 million.
Infrastructure, energy, and healthcare cooperation further broaden the relationship. Chinese companies have been involved in major infrastructure and power projects, while several China-aided healthcare and public facilities remain under construction.
The growing economic engagement therefore presents opportunities for Bangladesh to attract investment, expand exports, and strengthen industrial capacity. The extent to which these opportunities translate into greater Bangladeshi exports and diversified production will remain important to the long-term balance of bilateral economic relations.
