BD, Netherlands explore PPP driven coop
Industries Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir on Monday called for deepening trade and technical ties with the Netherlands by shifting from traditional aid to a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) approach.
He made the appeal during a courtesy meeting with Netherlands Ambassador to Bangladesh, Joris van Bommel, at the Ministry of Industries in Dhaka, where both sides explored ways to strengthen economic cooperation through knowledge-based collaboration in key industrial sectors.
The discussions underscored a transition in bilateral relations from conventional assistance to partnership-oriented engagement. Priority areas identified for strategic investment included agriculture, water management, maritime development, and sustainable value chains.
Muktadir highlighted that despite notable gains in agricultural output, Bangladesh still faces challenges in storage, processing, and ensuring fair prices for farmers. He sought Dutch expertise and investment in cold chain logistics, modern storage, processing, export capacity, and fair pricing mechanisms.
He also stressed the importance of river-based land management, noting that Dutch experience in land reclamation could help Bangladesh better utilise its riverine landscape.
Ambassador Joris van Bommel expressed the Netherlands’ interest in advancing partnership-based investment and knowledge-sharing.
He pointed to opportunities for joint ventures in port modernisation, maritime security, and research and development (R&D), adding that Dutch firms are keen to expand R&D activities in Bangladesh.
However, he emphasised the need for strong intellectual property protections and a business-friendly environment to support long-term investment.
The meeting also touched on Bangladesh’s upcoming graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status.
The Bangladesh side sought a three-year extension for pre-graduation preparation to ensure a smooth and sustainable transition, citing the need to safeguard economic stability, manage external debt, and implement structural reforms.
Both sides agreed to work on addressing logistical and legal barriers to investment, with a focus on market access, IP rights, and supply chain efficiency.
They also prioritised the adoption of modern technology, innovation, and climate-resilient practices to boost sustainable agriculture.
To advance these efforts, the ambassador announced plans for a high-level Dutch delegation to visit Bangladesh, aimed at accelerating investment in agriculture, maritime, and trade sectors.
The meeting concluded on an optimistic note, with both sides expressing confidence that innovation and sustainability will further strengthen bilateral economic ties. Senior officials, including Industries Secretary Md Obaidur Rahman, were also present.
