Japan set to move forward with Bangladesh’s first economic pact

Trade

Tokyo seeks to deepen cooperation, set baseline for trade rules as China looms

The economic pact with Bangladesh will eliminate tariffs on textile products imported by Japan. (Maruhisa)

RINTO HORIKOSHI

October 18, 2026 02:00 JST

TOKYO — Japan’s Foreign Ministry aims to have parliament approve an economic partnership agreement with Bangladesh during the current legislative session, helping to deepen cooperation between the two countries and serve as a counterweight to China’s growing presence.