Bangladesh, South Korea push CEPA deal ahead of LDC exit
Bangladesh and South Korea agreed to accelerate work on a trade partnership agreement as the nations seek closer economic ties. Investment authority chief Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun met with Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo in Seoul to advance the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement before Bangladesh loses developing country benefits in 2026. Officials said the pact would attract Korean firms to the electronics, energy, and textile sectors.
South Korea holds $1.56 billion in investments across more than 150 companies in Bangladesh, making it the fifth-largest foreign investor. Chowdhury told the minister his agency addresses business concerns through 32 reforms covering customs and tax procedures. The Bangladesh delegation invited Yeo to visit with Korean executives to observe infrastructure improvements and regulatory changes that modernize the economy.
