Continuation of negotiations on EPA a must: Kiminori

Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Iwama Kiminori has underlined the need for continuation of negotiations on the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) and the Public Private Joint Economic Dialogues between the two governments as they are the two vehicles to move forward to improving business environment in the years to come.

"Japan recognises the paramount significance of Bangladesh’s development acknowledging the role for shaping the business destiny," he said.

A growing number of Japanese companies are redirecting their focus for Bangladesh, Mr Kiminori also said.

The Japanese envoy made the statement while uncovering a book on taxation titled 'Taxation Handbook for Investors in Bangladesh' by Howlader Maria & Co., Chartered Accountants (HmAC) on its new office premises on Wednesday, says a press release issued by the ICAB on Thursday.

Referring to the delay in holding a plenary meeting for several reasons, Mr Kiminori hoped that working group meeting will soon be held for moving forward the planet plenary meeting.

"I wish that the real floating of the negotiation will be ready to come in the near future."

The ambassador pointed out to taxation as one of the biggest challenges business community in the country is facing.

He has hoped that the handbook not only clarifies the business landscapes of the country through meticulous research and insightful analysis but also guides a foreign investor seeking to explore diverse opportunities available in Bangladesh.

This publication transcends a mere assembly of rules and regulations, it serves strategic guidelines for powering an investor with essential knowledge and confidence required to make well informed decisions, he added.

The Japanese envoy said Japan Bangladesh Chambers and Commerce of Industry (JBCCI) and JETRO Bangladesh offer valuable advice to the companies in navigating the complexity of Bangladesh.

The synergistic collaboration among Japanese Business Circle along with the embassy of Japan is manifested.

President of Japan Bangladesh Chambers & Commerce of Industry (JBCCI) and Council Member & Past President, ICAB & chairman of Taxation & Corporate Laws Committee of ICAB Md Humayun Kabir FCA were present as special guests.

Yuji Ando, country representative, JETRO Bangladesh, was the guest of honour while Maria Howlader FCA, the Founder and Managing Partner of Maria Howlader & Co, Chartered Accountants and Partner of the Firm Mohammed Golam Sarwar were present.

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