Oman has expressed interest to invest in Bangladesh’s leather, jute and other prospective sectors. The expression of interest by Omani entrepreneurs was revealed at a meeting with the leaders of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) on Wednesday in the city. First Vice-President of the FBCCI Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin welcomed the Omani business delegation. Chairman of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) Saeed Saleh Saeed Al Kiyumi led his country’s delegation. Mr Mohiuddin said the Omani entrepreneurs were briefed about the prospects of investment in Bangladesh. He told them that the Bangladesh government has taken an initiative to build 100 special economic zones. Chairman of OCCI said they are interested to invest in readymade garment (RMG), leather, furniture, handicrafts and other prospective sectors. “We want to invest here in Bangladesh. As a Muslim country there are many similarities between Bangladesh and Oman,” Mr Kiyumi said. He suggested the formation of Bangladesh- Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BOCCI) for mutual benefits of the two countries. Bangladesh mainly exports agricultural and engineering products, footwear, frozen foods, plastic goods and jute and jute goods to Oman, while imports rubber, mineral products, chemical and textiles articles. Bangladesh exported goods worth US$ 20.90 million, while imported over $71.10 million during the fiscal year 2015-16.
