Start negotiation for Japan, Bangladesh FTA soon: envoy

The negotiation between Bangladesh and Japan for signing a free trade agreement (FTA) or an economic partnership agreement (EPA) should start as soon as possible, Japanese Ambassador ITO Naoki said today.

Most of the Japanese companies in Bangladesh and Bangladeshi companies in Japan want to sign FTA or EPA so that the south Asian nation continues enjoying duty benefit after its graduation to a developing country in 2026, he said.

Moreover, it may take three to four years to conclude the signing of the FTA or EPA, so the negotiation should start as soon as possible, Naoki said.

The ambassador spoke at a programme to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Japan-Bangladesh diplomatic relations at Pan Pacific Sonargaon in Dhaka.

The Japanese Commerce and Industry Association in Dhaka and Japan Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry jointly organised event.