The Commerce Minister made these remarks as the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony of the three-day international trade fair 'Top Thai Brands 2026' at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in the capital on Thursday.
Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh Thitiporn Chirasawadi, officials of the Royal Thai Embassy, representatives of participating Thai companies, business leaders, entrepreneurs and media personnel were present at the event.
The Commerce Minister said the relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand is long-standing, based on mutual trust, respect and cooperation. The relations between the two countries are expanding in the areas of trade, investment, tourism, culture and regional cooperation.
He said Thailand is one of Bangladesh's most important trading partners. Although trade between the two countries has increased, there is still immense potential for expanding trade and investment.
Khondaker Abdul Muktadir said, “Bangladesh has become an attractive destination for foreign investment due to its strategic location, large consumer market, skilled workforce and investment-friendly policies. We welcome Thai investment in various sectors including agro-processing, tourism, leather, ready-made garments, automobile parts and rubber products.”
He further said Bangladesh is keen to increase exports of pharmaceuticals, processed food, jute-based eco-friendly products, leather goods and light engineering products to the Thai market.
The Commerce Minister said an international trade fair is not just an opportunity to showcase products, but also an effective medium for creating direct contact between producers, importers, exporters, distributors, investors and entrepreneurs.
He said events like 'Top Thai Brands 2026' will create new relationships between businessmen of the two countries and play an important role in expanding trade.
Stating that the government is working to create a business and investment-friendly environment, he said various initiatives have been taken to facilitate trade, develop infrastructure, digitalize and increase connectivity with international markets.
Highlighting the importance of responsible foreign investment, he said such investment will play a vital role in creating employment, increasing the use of modern technology and developing the country's industry.
The Commerce Minister urged the participating Thai companies to increase contact with Bangladeshi businessmen, importers, distributors and investors. He also urged Bangladeshi businessmen to explore new opportunities for exporting local products to the Thai market.
He expressed hope that 'Top Thai Brands 2026' will further strengthen trade, investment and friendly relations between Bangladesh and Thailand.
It is noteworthy that 57 Thai companies are participating in this fair, organized by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) under the Ministry of Commerce of the Royal Thai Government, in collaboration with the Commercial Affairs Office of the Royal Thai Embassy in Dhaka.
The three-day fair will continue until July 25. It will remain open to visitors from 10 am to 8 pm daily at Pan Pacific Sonargaon.
