Website: 2 · 2019-11-06 · electrical equipment; 55.54 6 Home Textile 1.30 Prepared foodstuffs 42.75 7 Jute goods 1.03 Base metals & articles of base metal 38.67 8 Chemical Products

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BTCCI Newsletter, the ninth in succession is coming out at a time when a team of about twenty five plus business delegation travelling to Thailand to attend the single country trade fair titled Bangladesh Trade & Investment Expo, Bangkok, Thailand during May 30 to June 01, 2016 organized by Bangladesh Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand in collaboration with Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) of Bangladesh at the Queen Sirikit Convention Centre, Bangkok, Thailand. The program would be designed to showcase top exportable goods and services from Bangladesh to the rest of the world, to create awareness among the Thai importers, manufacturers, investors, private sector and policy makers and get them to import from Bangladesh. HE Mrs. Apiradi Tantraporn, hon’ble Minister of Commerce of the Kingdom of Thailand and HE Mr. Tofail Ahmed MP, hon’ble Minister of Commerce of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh will jointly inaugurate the Expo on May 30, 2016.A good number of members from the Tanneries, Leathergoods Exporters Associations, BGMEA and BKMEA are also expected to participate in this firstever Bangladeshi International Fair in Thailand in the Sikrit Queen City Convention Center, Bangkok, Thailand.Thailand and Bangladesh are tested friends and currently the volume of business between our two friendly countries is over the US$ 800 million mark. Bangladesh’s economy has sustained a growth of over 6% for the last five years and its size of GDP compared to the purchasing power parity (ppp) is now about US$ 400 billion. Thailand’s economy on the other hand has grown at a strong position also. Several important business delegations came to Bangladesh from Thailand recently. One of them from Thai Port authority led by Governor of Ranong Province of Thailand Mr. Suriyan Karnjanasilp visited Bangladesh to explore feasibility of signing MoU for direct coastal shipping between Chittagong port of Bangladesh in the Bay of Bengal and Ranong Port of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. Another important Delegation was led by Mr. Chokedee Kaewsang, Deputy Secretary General of BOI Thailand which comprised of 20 members Thai Business delegation from BOI, Thailand and 8 important sectors- Textile, Agricultural Machinery, Pharmaceutical, Food, Cosmetic and Chemical Process Machinery, Machinery parts, Metal, Insulation/ Plastic/ Foam, Cold Storage, Plastic pellets/Shrink Label FilmBTCCI is indebted to HE Ms. Panpimon Suwannapongse, hon’ble newly appointed Ambassador of Thailand to Bangladesh for her constant advice and support extended to BTCCI since her arrival in Bangladesh.Our deep appreciation to the outgoing Ambassador Ms. Madurapochana Ittarong for her active guidance and cooperation extended to BTCCI during her very eventful tenure in Bangladesh.BTCCI convey its appreciation to different chambers and relevant government bodies for their cooperation extended to its current tenure. Our sincerest acknowledgement to the Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand Ms. Saida Muna Tasneem, TBBC president Mr. Mingpant Chiya, the Minister Counsellor of Royal Thai Embassy Mr. Phasit Chudabuddhi, Counsellor Ms. Oranus Watthayanon, Second Secretary Ms. Hathaiphat Chatpiyaphat, Second Secretary Ms. Chompunut Phasuphan, the Bangladesh Embassy, Thailand and BOI authorities of both Thailand and Bangladesh for their support whenever approached. Finally, our gratification to all our BTCCI members for their inspirative and continued support extended to our Board of Directors.

Sajjatuz JummaPresident, BTCCI

From The President’s DeskVol-1, Issue - 9

btcci

Thailand-Bangladesh businessmen emphasizing toraise trade and investment by using both countries’ sea port

Bangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce & Industry

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Bangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce & IndustryNews Letter

Thailand participate moreactively in Bangladesh economic sphere

BTCCI Board ofDirectors 2015-17

Office-BearersMr. Sajjatuz Jumma PresidentMr. Md. Ayub Ali Sr. Vice PresidentMr. Mohammed Ali Vice PresidentMr. Md. Munir Hossain Director AdminMr. Abu Rushd Tarek Director Finance

DirectorsMr. Zafar OsmanMr. Asif IbrahimMr. M. Shahjahan KhanMr. Salahuddin AbdullahMr. Md. Enayet Husain Mr. Mafiz A. BhuiyanMr. Montchai MusicabudMr. Shahzada HamidMr. M. Salem SulaimanMr. Pramatha Barua

Secretariat Mr. Md. Nazmul HossenSecretary

Chief Patron Ms. Panpimon Suwannapongse Hon’ble Ambassador of Thailand to Bangladesh

Patron Mr. Hossain Khaled President, DCCI

BTCCI Advisor Eng. Rashed Maksud Khan, PP, BTCCI Mr. M. A. Momen, PP, BTCCI Mr. K. Habib Sattar, PP, BTCCI

BTCCI SecretariatConcord Tower (8th Floor), Suite-801113 Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Dhaka-1000.Phone: 880-2-9337437 Fax: 880-2-9349520E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]: www.btcci.org.bd

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BTCCI IntroductionBTCCI was established in the year 2003 under the umbrella of Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) and is a listed joint Chamber of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI). It was formed almost at the same time Thai Bangla Business Council (TBBC) was formed in Thailand under the Thailand Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade. BTCCI is run by a 15 (fifteen) member Board of Directors elected bi-annually by the General Members. It consists of Companies, Corporate bodies as well as individuals engaged in Trade, Commerce, Industry, Agriculture, Manufacture etc. The President, Sr. Vice President, Vice President, Director Admin and Director Finance are elected by the Board for a term of 2 years.Over the years BTCCI has become a forum for discussion and establishment of business contacts and bussines promotions between Bangladesh and Thailand. It is growing steadily with induction of large, medium and small Companies joining up as members at regular intervals.

BTCCI VisionTo accelerate economic prosperity of Thailand and Bangladesh through trade,business and investment.

BTCCI MissionTo serve with commitment and dedication the business community of Bangladesh and Thailand for promoting Trade, Commerce and Investment for the economic growth of both the countries.

BTCCI Objectivesn To promote and develop trade, investment and

industry between Bangladesh and Thailand.n To collect and provide business related data,

informations, circulars, rules, regulations etc. and disseminate these amongst the members.

n To identify difficulties and problems in investment and trade barriers faced by members and take adequate steps to overcome those.

n To target new areas of business and investment and take appropriate steps to tap potential interested groups, joint ventures between Bangladesh and Thailand.

n To provide consultation to members and to undertake by arbitration settlement of disputes arising out of business transaction.

n To provide recommendations to Government in the area of trade, investment a nd industry related matters.

n To provide and coordinate as a forum to exchange, receive and promote business activities between Government Agencies, Private Organizations and other Chamber Bodies.

n To organize / arrange training programs, work-shops, seminars, symposiums, trade delegations and trade fairs participation inside and outside the country.

n To issue document certification including refe-rence letter, trade related documents etc.

From The Editor’s DeskA warm welcome to our business delegation travelling to Thailand to attend the single country Trade fair titled “Bangladesh Trade & Investment Expo 2016”, Bangkok, Thailand organized by Bangladesh Embassy, Thailand and Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). You are aware that BTCCI took the initiative to publish News Letter of the Chamber periodically to highlight its activities and disseminate the same to its honorable members. These News Letters are also distributed to different chamber bodies, concerned govt. and semi-govt. agencies as well as to Thai business community through their local embassy in Bangladesh. This is the 8th issue covering the activities of BTCCI upto May, 2016. I, on behalf of the BOD, BTCCI would like to thank all those sponsors who assisted us with advertisement subscription and especially our dynamic President for his constant support and guidance in bringing out this issue to coincide with this AGM.

Sd/-Engineer Mohammed Ali Editor-BTCCI News LetterVice President, BTCCI

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M. Shahjahan KhanDirector

Md. Munir HossainDirector Administration

Montchai MusicabudDirector

Salahuddin AbdullahDirector

Abu Rushd TarekDirector Finance

Shahzada HamidDirector

Mohammed AliVice President

Md. Ayub AliSr. Vice President

Sajjatuz JummaPresident

Md. Enayet HusainDirector

Zafar OsmanDirector

M. Salem SulaimanDirector

Mafiz A. BhuiyanDirector

Asif IbrahimDirector

Pramatha BaruaDirector

Board of Directors for the term 2015-17

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TRADE POSITION BETWEEN BANGLADESH & THAILAND(Figures in Million U.S. $)

YEAR EXPORT IMPORT TRADE-BALANCE2003-04 22.79 243.19 (-) 220.402004-05 35.65 325.96 (-) 290.312005-06 53.63 318.63 (-) 265.002006-07 21.85 414.49 (-) 392.642007-08 15.63 499.86 (-) 484.232008-09 39.31 498.48 (-) 459.172009-10 20.52 632.41 (-) 611.892010-11 33.01 1028.31 (-) 995.302011-12 51.43 880.79 (-) 829.362012-13 94.39 689.80 (-) 595.412013-14 39.62 741.00 (-) 701.382014-15 32.76 680.50 (-) 647.74

Major items Exported to Thailandfrom Bangladesh (2014-2015)

Major items Imported into Bangladeshfrom Thailand (2013-2014)

1 Knitwear 7.11 Plastics & rubber articles thereof 161.592 Engineering Products 6.83 Textiles & textile articles 143.703 Agricultural Products 6.07 Mineral products 119.534 Woven Garments 4.84 Products of the chemical or allied industries 85.12

5 Frozen Food 1.50 Machinery & mechanical appliances; electrical equipment; 55.54

6 Home Textile 1.30 Prepared foodstuffs 42.757 Jute goods 1.03 Base metals & articles of base metal 38.678 Chemical Products 0.95 Vegetable products 31.73

9 Vehicles, aircraft, vessels & transport equipment 27.83

10 Pulp of wood products 22.2611 Articles of stone, plaster, cement, asbestos etc. 4.4812 Miscellaneous manufactured articles 2.7313 Raw hides & skins, leather, furskins & articles 2.2014 Live animals; animal products 1.14

15 Other products: Cotton, Leather goods, Specialized Textile, Footwear, Plastics and Plastic Articles, Manmade staple fibres, Optical, photo, technical, medical, etc apparatus, Headgear, Handicrafts, etc.

1.08 Other products: Optical, photographic, clocks, musical instruments etc., Footwear, headgear, Wood & articles of wood; Works of art, collectors’ pieces and antiques, Natural or cultured pearls, precious stones,imitation jewlry,coin etc., Animal or vegetable fats and oils etc.

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Source: Export Promotion Bureau and Bangladesh Bank /Compiled by: FBCCI, Dated 29/11/2015

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BTCCI Activities

Governor of Ranong Province of Thailand expects to raise bilateral business by using both countries’ sea portGovernor of Ranong Province of Thailand Mr. Suriyan Karnjanasilp expressed expectation to Businessmen of Bangladesh and Thailand to raise bilateral business by using both countries’ sea port in a Business Meeting between Bangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BTCCI) and the Delegation of the Thai Port Authority at the Dhaka Club Ltd on February 8, 2016 organized by BTCCI. The 13 member high profile Thai delegation is visiting Bangladesh to explore feasibility of signing MoU for direct coastal shipping between Chittagong port of Bangladesh in the Bay of Bengal and Ranong Port of Thailand in the Andaman Sea.

Governor of Ranong Province of Thailand Mr. Suriyan Karnjanasilp, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand Ms. Saida Muna Tasneem, BTCCI President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, ICC’B President Mr. Mahbubur Rahman are seen among others in the BTCCI Business Meeting with The Thai Port Authority Delegation to Bangladesh.Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, President of BTCCI welcomed the Delegation members and said that Bangladesh and Thailand have long-standing friendly relations as trusted and tested friend, even before the two countries established diplomatic ties on October 5, 1972.President Jumma also said that Thailand is an advanced economy, and is recognized globally as a hub of the Asia-Pacific region due to its impressive creation, innovation and development of versatile products. Being strategic partners in the region, Bangladesh and Thailand cooperate with each other both bilaterally and multilaterally. It is high time for both of the country to boost relations with each other in order to nurture the economic diplomacy adopted in recent times. By the exploring MoU between Chittagong Port and Ranong Port is shown up the growing bilateral diplomatic and business relationship between the two brotherhood countries by the leading of our Ambassador Muna.

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Mr. Suriyan Karnjanasilp, Governor of Ranong Province of Thailand said that both countries cooperation should be widened regionally and bilaterally by establishing sea and land routes. By exploring the MoU Chittagong and Ranong will start new horizon in the diplomatic and business relationship between two friendly countries. He assured all out support and cooperation from his side to implement a bilateral understanding between Bangladesh and Thailand embassy. He shortly expressed his views and opinons to the business galaxy about the relevant issues of MoU.Ms. Saida Muna Tasneem, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand emphasized on strengthening that already established good relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand. She also stressed on the fisheries sector of Bangladesh which could be highest foreign currency earning sector. She said that Bangladesh as a member of BIMSTEC could be considered by Thailand as a hub to integrate with other ASEAN countries. She said that the involvement of a big company like Ital-Thai Development Company Limited for construction of the Elevated Express way and an agro-industrial and Food conglomerate CP Bangladesh Co. Ltd were the proof of Thailand’s interest to consider Bangladesh as an investment destination. She also emphasized that apart from trading only, now both the countries should try to establish strategic partnerships to establish labor intensive industries in Bangladesh. Mr. Prajak Sriwatthana, Assistant Director General of Asset Management and Business Development and Leader of the Delegation said that Thailand’s Ranong sea port, in particular, is a capable port of entry in logistics of goods, and now it is going to be a new gateway to accommodate trade expansion between Thailand and Bangladesh.

Mr. Mingpant Chaya, President of the Thai-Bangladesh Business Council (TBBC) was present in the meeting and said the economies of Bangladesh and Thailand were complementary but there were some products- agro, fisheries, machineries, Leather, Jute & Jute goods which could be manufactured at each others point to overcome competition and for the marketing of those products globally. Mr. Mahbubur Rahman, President of the International Chamber of Commerce, Bangladesh (ICC’B), Mr. Md. Ayub Ali, Sr. Vice President, BTCCI Founder President Engr. Rashed Maksud Khan, Past President Mr. M A Momen and FBCCI Director Sheik Fazle Fahim

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were also present. The others directors of BTCCI including Mr. Zafar Osman, DCCI Former President, Mr. Shahjahan Khan, DCCI Former President, Mr. Md. Munir Hossain, Mr. Mafiz A Bhuiyan, Mr. Montchai Musicubud, Managing Director of First Dhaka Elevated Expressway Ltd, Mr. Md. Enayet Husain, Mr. Shahzada Hamid, Mr. M. Salem Sulaiman, Mr. Pramatha Barua were present among others. BTCCI Secretary Mr. Md. Nazmul Hossen Conducted over the business meeting.

Thailand wants a special Economic Zone in BangladeshBangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BTCCI) placed a number of proposals to the Industry Minister of Bangladesh including the seeking govt. cooperation of relocating labor intensive industry in Bangladesh from Thailand, removal of tariff barriers to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation and a special economic zone for Thailand.

BTCCI President Sajjatuz Jumma handed over a crest to Industries Minister Amir Hossain Amu in a BTCCI Board of Directors courtesy call on Industries Minister. DCCI President Mohammad Shahjahan Khan, BTCCI Founder President & DCCI Former President Eng. Rashed Maksud Khan, BTCCI Director & DCCI Former President Zafar Osman, BTCCI Director & DCCI Former President Asif Ibrahim were also present in the call on.The proposals were made during a recent courtesy call on the Board of Directors of the Chamber with Industries Minister Amir Hossain Amu at the Shilpa Bhaban, Dhaka recently.BTCCI President Sajjatuz Jumma introduced the Board of Directors of BTCCI to the Minister. DCCI President Mohammad Shahjahan Khan accompanied the delegation among others.Mr Jumma said Bangladesh and Thailand were tested friends and the ethnic historical and cultural ties of both the countries went back years ago. BTCCI has been working an important role from its inception of 2003.The chamber leaders warned the Minister despite the trade volume between the two friendly countries exceeded US$ 1.2 billion in 2011, it may decrease this year due to various sorts of reasons.

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BTCCI President also emphasized on establishing more joint venture industries between Bangladesh and Thailand and requested the Minister to help and initiate for creating this. He also mentioned that apart from existing sectors- Jute and Jute goods, Leather, Agro, Light Engineering etc we could add an other some sectors-Pharmaceuticals, RMG, Tourism, Frozen Foods, Fisheries, Infrastructure, Education & Training to attract the Thai Businessmen. He informed the Minister that Thailand would import a few products such as Pharmaceuticals from Bangladesh for which the Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh would visit some Pharmaceuticals factory soon. BTCCI President also proposed the Industries Ministry to be part of the “Destination Thailand 2015”organized by the BTCCI in February 2015 in Thailand. Industries Minister Amir Hossain Amu accepted the proposal and assured them to join there if his counterpart would take initiative and necessary arrangement to visit him.The Minister thanked the business galaxy for their contribution to the development of the country and assured with all out cooperation for enhancing bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand. He said that the investment of some big companies in Bangladesh like Ital-Thai Development Company Limited was a proof of Thailand’s interest to consider Bangladesh as an investment destination. Thailand could also play an important role by investing in Bangladesh’s infrastructure like Roads and Highways, Power and Energy, Agro processing and other labor intensive sectors. Industries Minster also emphasized that apart from trading only, now countries should try to establish strategic partnerships. DCCI President and BTCCI Patron Mohammad Shahjahan Khan emphasized on strengthening the already established good relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand. He stressed that potentials in Tourism, Agro Processing, Jute and Jute goods, Light Engineering and various infrastructure facilities could also be explored.

BTCCI honorary director and Minister Counsellor (Commercial) of the Royal Thai Embassy Dhaka Wachara Chumnanwong was present in the meeting and said the economies of Bangladesh and Thailand were complementary but there were some products- agro, fisheries, machineries, Leather, Jute & Jute goods which could be manufactured at each others point to overcome competition and for the marketing of those products globally.

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The managing director of the First Dhaka Elevated Expressway Co. Ltd. Montchai Musicabud also attended the call on and said Bangladesh provides low cost production base and competitive labor market for Thai Businesses and therefore Bangladesh could be their investment destination. He showed the interest to relocate some of the labour intensive industries which are already saturated to Bangladesh for which he proposed for a special economic zone for Thai Companies. He thanked the Bangladesh govt. to remove all the barriers to start their mega project of the First Dhaka Elevated Expressway by which they would launch their work in January 2015.BTCCI Founder President & DCCI Former President Rashed Maksud Khan, Director Administration Abu Rushd Tarek, BTCCI Director & DCCI former President Zafar Osman, BTCCI Director & DCCI former President Asif Ibrahim, Director Shahzada Hamid and Director Md. Munir Hossain also joined the courtesy call meeting.

BTCCI urges more Thai Investment in BangladeshBangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BTCCI) urged more Thai investment by enhancing bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand. BTCCI called this in a Farewell Program to the departing Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh Madurapocahana Ittarong at a local hotel on October 03, 2015 in Dhaka. BTCCI President Sajjatuz Jumma said that Bangladesh and Thailand were tested friends and the ethnic historical and cultural ties of both the countries went back years ago. BTCCI has been working an important role from its inception of 2003.Sajjauz Jumma stressed to reduce the trade gap between two countries by increasing Bangladeshi products range, diversifying them and try to find strategic partners at this point of time. Though the quality of Thai products is satisfactory but the price of this is costlier than the competitors and high duty of our exporting products are main constraints for the trading, he also added. President Jumma also urged to the Businessmen to import more products like Pharmaceuticals, Jute and Jute goods, Leather, RMG, Fisheries etc from Bangladesh.

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He emphasized on more investment in Infrastructure development of the country and creating joint venture between Bangladesh and Thai company which sectors are strong position from your side.Ambassador of the Royal Kingdom of Thailand to Bangladesh Madurapochana Ittarong appreciated BTCCI to promote and develop trade, investment and industry between Bangladesh and Thailand and expressed her continued efforts indeed to work for increasing investment in collaboration with Thai BOI and Bangladesh BOI and also with BTCCI. She also thanked to BTCCI for arranging such excellent gathering with some Bangladeshi Business Galaxy.

She also told that Thailand has been maintaining good relations with Bangladesh over the years, adding that more collaboration between the private companies of the two countries would obviously boost bilateral trade. By the implementing project of First Dhaka Elevated Expressway Co. Ltd she thought that many of the Thai Company now interested to invest in the Infrastructure Development in Bangladesh. In the vote of thanks BTCCI Founder President Eng. Rashed Maksud Khan thanked Ambassador of the Royal Kingdom of Thailand to Bangladesh, High Officials of the Thai Embassy Dhaka, Distinguished BTCCI members & Business Leaders present. He also mentioned that apart from existing sectors- Jute and Jute goods, Leather, Agro, Light Engineering etc we could add another some sectors-Pharmaceuticals, RMG, Tourism, Frozen Foods, Fisheries, Infrastructure, Education & Training to attract the Thai Businessmen.BTCCI Hony. Director and Minister Counsellor (Commercial) of Royal Thai Embassy Wachara Chamnanwong, DCCI Former President & Chairman of Uttara Group Matiur Rahman, DCCI Former President and BTCCI member Sayeeful Islam, BTCCI Director Mafiz A Bhuiyan, BTCCI Director & BGMEA Director Md. Munir Hossain and DCL Former President Tanveer Muzhar Islam were present among other members of BTCCI in the program.

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BTCCI urges Thai Businessmen to enhance bilateral business relation with BangladeshBangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BTCCI) urged the Thai entrepreneurs to enhance bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand by investing more in Bangladesh. BTCCI called this in a business meeting at a local club in Dhaka on February 01, 2015 with the 20 members Thai Business delegation from BOI, Thailand and 8 important sectors- Textile, Agricultural Machinery, Pharmaceutical, Food, Cosmetic and Chemical Process Machinery, Machinery parts, Metal, Insulation/ Plastic/ Foam, Cold Storage, Plastic pellets/Shrink Label Film. BTCCI President Sajjatuz Jumma said that Bangladesh and Thailand were tested friends and the ethnic historical and cultural ties of both the countries went back years ago. BTCCI has been working an important role from its inception of 2003.Sajjauz Jumma stressed to reduce the trade gap between two countries by increasing Bangladeshi products range, diversifying them and try to find strategic partners at this point of time. Though the quality of Thai products is satisfactory but the price of this is costlier than the competitors and high duty of our exporting products are main constraints for the trading, he also added. President Jumma also urged to the Businessmen to import more products like Pharmaceuticals, Jute and Jute goods, Leather, RMG, Fisheries etc from Bangladesh

He emphasized on more investment in Infrastructure development of the country and creating joint venture between Bangladesh and Thai company which sectors are strong position from your side.Thai BOI Deputy Secretary General and leader of the Thai Delegation Chokedee Kaewsang appreciated BTCCI to promote and develop trade, investment and industry between Bangladesh and Thailand Bangladesh and expressed his willingness to work for increasing investment in collaboration with Thai BOI and Bangladesh BOI. He also thanked to BTCCI for arranging the business meeting by which business matchmaking was held between the visiting Thai businessmen and Bangladeshi Businessmen.

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He also told that Thailand has been maintaining good relations with Bangladesh over the years, adding that more collaboration between the private companies of the two countries would obviously boost bilateral trade.

In the vote of thanks BTCCI Vice President Mohammed Ali thanked the Thai Delegation members and BTCCI members for the gathering to be effective business meeting and matchmaking and also mentioned that apart from existing sectors- Jute and Jute goods, Leather, Agro, Light Engineering etc we could add another some sectors-Pharmaceuticals, RMG, Tourism, Frozen Foods, Fisheries, Infrastructure, Education & Training to attract the Thai Businessmen.

The representatives of different 8 business sectors took part in the discussion and exchanged views with their counterparts in Bangladesh.

BTCCI Sr. Vice President Charles C R Patra, BTCCI hony. Director and Minister Counsellor (Commercial) of Royal Thai Embassy Wachara Chumnanwong, BTCCI Founder President Eng. Rashe Maksud Khan, BTCCI Immediate Past President M A Momen, DCCI Former President and BTCCI Director Zafar Osman, DCCI Former President and BTCCI Director Asif Ibrahim, chairman and managing director of Uttara Motors Motiur Rahman and some other renowned businessmen and entrepreneurs also exchanged views with Thai entrepreneurs.

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Chronology of some BTCCI Activities upto May’16n Mr. Sajjatuz Jmma, President of BTCCI attended the Inaugural Program of the

“Thailand Eid Festival 2015” during 25 June-12 July, 2015 at the west court, Lower Ground, Jamuna Future Park on June 28, 2015.

n BTCCI President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma attended a Ifter & Doa Mahful organized by DCCI at the DCCI Auditorium on July 02, 2015.

n President Jumma attended a Ifter Mahfil followed by dinner organized by BMCCI at Eden Ball Room, Hotel Amari, Dhaka on July 07, 2015. HE Borlin Binti Othman, High Commisioner of Malaysia and Patron of BMCCI was present as the Chief Guest.

n Mr. Jumma attended a Ifter & Doa Mahfil organized by FBCCI at officers’ club, Dhaka on July 11, 2015.

n Mr. Sajjatuz Jmma, President of BTCCI attended a meeting with the different Asian Bi-lateral Chamber of Commerce on regional economic cooperation on July 28, 2015 at the Jetro Dhaka Office.

n BTCCI President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma attended the Inaugural Program of “India Investrade 2015” on August 06, 2015 at the Bangabandhu International Convention Center (BICC), Dhaka during August 06-08, 2015. Alhaj Amir Hossain Amu, hon’ble Minister for Industry of the Bangladesh and Dr. Mukul Sangma, hon’ble Chief Minister of the Government of Meghalaya, India were present as the chief guest and special guest respectively.

n President Jumma attended the FBCCI Meeting with the Joint Chamber of Commerce & Industry on August 09, 2015 at the FBCCI Board Meeting. FBCCI President Mr. Abdul Matlub Ahmed was present in the meeting.

n Mr. Jumma attended a Program of releasing the report on non-tariff measured (NTMs) in South Asia: Assessment and Analysis in the city on August 12, 2015. Commerce Minister Mr. Tofail Ahmed, FBCCI President Mr. Matlub Ahmed, MCCI President Syed Nasim Monju, ICC’B President Mahbubur Rahman were present in the program.

n Mr. Sajjatuz Jmma, President of BTCCI attended a Lunch Meeting on regional economic cooperation for Asia bilateral chmbers of commerce arranged by JBCCI on August 13, 2015 at Japanese Restaurant “IZUMI”

n BTCCI Board Meeting was held on August 19, 2015 at the BTCCI Conference Room, Concord Tower, Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Dhaka.

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n BTCCI President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma attended a seminar on “Development of the Employment and Labor Market” organized by PRI and the University Press Limited (UPL) on September 11, 2015 at 3.00 PM in the Conference Room of PRI.

n BTCCI Farewell Program to the Departing Thai Ambassador Ms. Madurapochana Ittarong at the Ascott Palace Ltd, Dhaka on October 03, 2015.

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n Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, President of BTCCI attended the Joint Chamber Meeting on October 17, 2015 at the Holiday Hotel Villa.

n BTCCI Board Meeting was held on November 14, 2015 at the conference room of the Ascott Palace Limited, Dhaka.

n President Jumma attended the Inaugural Ceremony of French Trade Show on November 27, 2015 at the Hotel Le Meridien organized by the French-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

n BTCCI President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma attended the Thai National Day Celebaration Program on December 05, 2015 at the Redisson Blu Water Garden, Dhaka. Most of the Directors and past presidents of BTCCI were present in the program.

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n Mr. Jumma attended a seminar on “Investment Climate in Bangladesh: Looking Ahead” on November 24, 2015 at the DCCI Auditorium organized by DCCI.

n Mr. Sajjatuz Jmma, President of BTCCI attended a seminar on “Trade Facilitation: Challenges & Opportunities for sustainable growth on Decembr 01, 2015 at the DCCI Auditorium organized by DCCI.

n BTCCI 11th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on December 12, 2015 at the Ascott Palace, Dhaka.

n BTCCI President Mr. Jumma attended a meeting of the Forum of the Joint Chambers of Commerce & Industry on December 25, 2015 at the Hotel Holiday Vila.

n BTCCI BOD Meeting held on Saturday, January 09, 2016 at 3.30 pm at the “Conference Room” of the Bangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce & Industry, 113 Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Dhaka.

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n Mr. Md. Ayub Ali, BTCCI Sr. Vice President attended a meeting organized by Board of Investment, Bangladesh at the BOI Board Room on December 20, 2015 ragrding the forthcoming event titled as Bangladesh Investment & Policy Summit, 2016.

n Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, President of BTCCI attended the Bangladesh Investment & Policy Summit 2016 held on 24-25 January 2016 at Radisson Blu Garden Hotel, Dhaka & Jointly organized by BOI & BUILD in association with FBCCI, DCCI, MCCI, PPP Office, IFC etc. hon’ble Prime Minister HE Sheikh Hasina was present as the chief guest in the inaugural program of the Summit.

n President of BTCCI attended the Bilateral Chambers’ seminar on Integrate Bangladesh into Asia organized by all bilateral chambers of Bangladesh at the Lake Shore Hotel, Gulshan, Dhaka on January 23, 2016.

n BTCCI President Mr. Jumma attended a seminar on ‘Small Medium and Handy Craft Development’ organized by FBCCI in the FBCCI Auditorium on December 25, 2015 where FBCCI President Mr. Abdul Matlub Ahmed attended as the chief guest.

n BTCCI Business meeting with the Delegation of the Port Authority of Thailand held on Monday, February 08, 2016 at 6pm at the “Bengal Lounge” of Dhaka Club Ltd, Ramna, Dhaka.

n BTCCI President attended the 2nd Meet up on 25 February 2016 organized by CanCham Bangladesh held at the DCCI Auditorium (5th Floor), 65-66 Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000 at 12 noon. Dr. Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury, Bir Bikram attended the occasion as Chief Guest and Executive Chairman (Minister), Board of Investment Dr. Syed A Samad Chaired the Meet Up.

n Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, President of BTCCI attended the lecture on The Business of The Family Business by a globally renowned Family Business Advisor Mirza Yawar Baig (MYB) on February 27, 216 organized by MCCI at the MCCI Auditorium.

n Mr. Jumma attended the Prospects & Challenges for Industries in Energy and Power sector of 7th Five-Year Plan on March 05, 2016 at the DCCI Auditorium organized by

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DCCI. Dr. Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury, hon’ble Advisor to the Prime Minister on Power, Energy & Mineral Resources Affairs, GoB was present as the Chief Guest.

n BTCCI Vice President attended the Challenge of cooperation on the Road to Prosperity on March 06, 2016 at the Hotel Radisson Blu, Chittagong organized by IBFB.

n Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, BTCCI President attended the launching ceremony of Bangladesh Trade Portal on March 13, 2016 at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel, Dhaka hosted by the Ministry of Commerce with support from the Trade and Competitiveness Global Practice, World Bank Group, the portal provides an accessible, logical, helpful window for traders to access important regulatory and procedural information needed to export and import. Honorable Minister of Commerce H.E. Mr. Tofail Ahmed MP attended the portal as Chief Guest and Mr. Hedayetullah Al Mamoon, ndc presided over the program.

n BTCCI Sr. Vice President Mr. Md. Ayub Ali attended the Inaugural Program of the four-day long trade show namely “Thailand Week 2016” organized by Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce of Thailand and the Royal Thai Embassy, Dhaka jointly organized held during 16- 19 March 2016 at the Bashundhara International Convention City. Commerce Minister Mr. Tofail Ahmed was present as the chief guest to inaugurate the Fair on March 16, 2016.

n Mr. Jumma attended the Reception Program for Her Excellency Mrs. Leoni Margaretha Cuelenaere, Honorable Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Dhaka organized by the DBCCI on Monday the 21st March, 2016 at the Gardenia The Grand Hall, Gulshan.

n BTCCI President attended a Welcome Reception in honour of H.E. Nur Ashikin Mohd Taib, High Commissioner of Malaysia in Bangladesh and Chief Patron of BMCCI on Saturday, 30th April, 2016 at 7:30 P.M. at the Gressho-AB (2nd Floor),Six Seasons Hotel, Dhaka organized by Bangladesh-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI).

n President of the BTCCI attended the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Bangladesh held Monday, 09 May 2016 at 6.30 pm at Hotel Holiday Villa.

n Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, President of the BTCCI attended the Annual General Meeting 2015 & 10th Anniversary Celebration of IBFB at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon, Dhaka on May 12, 2016.

n President Jumma attended the discussions on “Budget 2016-2017: our Expectations” organized by MCCI and Maasranga Television on May 13, 2016 at the Chamber Building of MCCI. Finance Minister of Bangladesh Mr. A. M.A. Muhith, MP was present as the chief guest.

n BTCCI President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma attended the Thinking of Entrepreneurs about the Budget 2016-17 organized by FBCCI on May 19, 2016 at 10AM at FBCCI Auditorium. State Minister for the Foreign Affairs Mr. Sahriar Alam, MP was present in the discussions.

n Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, President of the BTCCI attended the achievement of 2 million Dollars in Bi-lateral Trade between Bangladesh and Canada in 2015 organized by DCCI and CanCham, Bangladesh on May 19, 2016 at 12PM at the DCCI Auditorium.

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AcknowledgementBTCCI acknowledges with thanks the continued support and contribution made by n Ms. Panpimon Suwannapongse, Hon’ble Ambassador of Thailand to Bangladesh and Chief Patron of BTCCI n Mr. Hossain Khaled, President of DCCI and Patron, BTCCI n Ms. Wachara Chumnanwong, Minster Counsellor (Commercial), Royal Thai Embassy and Honorary Director, BTCCI.

BTCCI also recalls with deep gratitude the cooperation, advice and service it received from it’s former presidents namely Engr. Rashed Maksud Khan (2003-2006), Mr. K. Habib Sattar (2007-2008) and Mr. M A Momen (2009-13).

BTCCI is finally grateful to all its general members, Patrons and well wishers for their unfettered support and cooperation extended to it from time to time and specially when needed most.

AcknowledgementBTCCI is grateful to the following companies and persons for their contributions made in cash / advertisements which helped to materialize in publishing this Newsletter successfully.

1 Prime Bank Limited 8 Ascott the Residence

2 Fareast Islami Life Insurance Co. Ltd. 9 Massons Polymer Corporation

3 Bengal Polymer Wares Ltd. 10 Vertex Group

4 Newage Group 11 Desh Electronics

5 C. P. Bangladesh Co. Ltd. 12 Jinghua Bangla Tours & Travels Ltd.

6 Toka Ink Bangladesh Ltd. 13 Remex corporation Ltd.

7 S. S. Shipping and Chartering Ltd. 14 Thai Emerald

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Other ActivitiesCongratulatory Letters were sent on behalf of BTCCI President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma and all the members of the Bangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BTCCI) to the following:

n Mr. Abdul Matlub Ahmed, President, The Federation of the Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FBCCI) for being elected FBCCI President for the term of 2015-2016.

n Mr. Syed Nasim Monjur, President, Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MCCI) and hon’ble member of BTCCI for being elected MCCI President for the term 2015.

n Mr. Taskeen Ahmed, President, India-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IBCCI) for elected President of the IBCCI.

n Ar. Md. Alamgir Jalil, President, Bangladesh-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI) for elected President of the BMCCI for the term 2016-2017

n Mr. Hossain Khaled, President, Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) and Patron of BTCCI for being elected DCCI President for the term of 2015.

n Mr. Anis A Khan, Vice President, Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MCCI) for being elected MCCI Vice President for the term 2015.

n Mr. Masud Rahman, President, Canadian Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CanCham) for being elected CanCham Bangladesh President.

n Mr. Kei Kawano, President, Japan-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JBCCI) for being elected JBCCI President.

n Mr. Shamim Ul Huq, President, Nordic Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bangladesh (NCCI) for being elected NCCI President

n Mr. Tarek Ahmed ELBA, President, France Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCIFB) for being elected CCIFB President.

n Mr. Nasir A Chowdhury, President, Bangladesh-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI) for being elected BMCCI President.

n Mrs. Salima Ahmad, President, Bangladesh Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BWCCI)for being elected President of BWCCI for the term 2014-15.

n Major M Taneem Hasan, Former Director of BTCCI on being re-elected as the Chairman of ROWA Club Limited.

Condolence letter was sent on behalf of BTCCI by President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma to the following:

n Mr. Shamim Alam, Managing Director, Natasha Corporation upon the sad demise of his father late Mr. Nurul Alam, Chairman of the Natasha Corporation.

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BTCCI in News PapersDhaka, Bangkok may conduct feasibility study on Ctg PortFinancial Express, 10 Feb, 2016Bangladesh and Thailand agreed Tuesday to carry out a feasibility study on the Chittagong Port’s capacity and facilities aiming to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on establishing direct coastal shipping links between the two countries.The visiting delegation of the Port Authority of Thailand and the Ministry of Shipping (MoS) officials reached the consensus after they discussed the issue in a meeting held at the ministry on the day. The Thai delegation who arrived in the capital on Monday will visit the Chittagong Port today (Wednesday).“Direct coastal shipping links between Bangladesh and Thailand would help reduce time for shipment of goods between the two countries. It will also help boost bilateral trade and investment,” Assistant Director General of Port Authority of Thailand Prajak Sriwatthana said.At present, there is no direct coastal shipping link between Bangladesh and Thailand. They send goods to each other through Singapore port that takes nearly two weeks. But if there is a direct coastal shipping link between Chittagong and Ranong of Thailand, it will take only six to eight days.“We held a fruitful discussion with our Thai delegation. We hope that we will be able to sign a MoU on direct coastal shipping links between Bangladesh and Thailand,” Secretary of the Ministry of Shipping (MoS) Ashoke Madhab Roy said.And after that the two countries will move to sign a MoU on direct maritime connectivity (coastal shipping), he added.Bangladesh Ambassador to Thailand Ms Saida Muna Tasneem said trade between Bangladesh and Thailand would jump significantly if there is direct coastal shipping link between Chittagong and Ranong of Thailand. She said Bangladesh trade show will be arranged in Thailand in May to bolster bilateral trade and investment.The Thai team will also visit Chittagong Export Processing Zone, Bangladesh-Thailand Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry to get first-hand knowledge about business and commercial feasibility of the direct coastal shipping.Governor of the Ranong Province of Thailand Suriyan Kanjanasilp, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce of the Ranong Province Mrs Sudaporn Yodpinij and high officials of the ministries of foreign affairs, commerce, shipping, Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) and port authorities of Chittagong and Mongla were present in the meeting. The coastal shipping links between the two countries was first discussed during the First Foreign Office Consultations between Bangladesh and Thailand in June last year.Bangladesh will benefit immensely if the connectivity can be materialised through BCIM with North-South and East-West ASEAN corridors, involving the countries like Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Singapore, China and Myanmar, according to local businessmen.Ranong Port located on the Andaman Sea will be treated as the gateway to connecting Thailand with BIMSTEC countries and as a shipping hub in the Andaman Sea, transporting goods from Thailand to the ports of Yangon, Chittagong, Kolkata, Chennai and Colombo, people familiar with the development said.

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The volume of trade between the two countries has increased steadily over the years and trade balance continued to remain in favour of Thailand.Exports from Thailand were valued at about US$ 700 million while imports were estimated at $ 400 million in the last fiscal.Thai Commerce Minister Apiradi Tantraporn in a recent meeting with Bangladesh Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed has fixed bilateral trade worth of US$ 1.7 billion or 60.4 billion baht in 2016.Keeping this in mind, the country will host the fourth Thai-Bangladesh Joint Trade Committee this year while Thai private companies will organise a goods and business fair.BSS adds: meanwhile, Ranong Province Governor of Thailand Suriyan Karnjanasilp has expressed the hope that businessmen of Bangladesh and Thailand will raise bilateral trade using seaports of both the countries.He expressed the hope in a business meeting between Bangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BTCCI) and a delegation of the Thai Port Authority at Dhaka Club in the city on Monday. BTCCI organised the meeting.BTCCI President Sajjatuz Jumma welcomed the delegation members and said Bangladesh and Thailand have a long-standing friendly relation.He said Thailand’s economy is advanced and is recognised globally as a hub of business in the Asia-Pacific region for its impressive creation, innovation and development of versatile products.Being strategic partners in the region, Bangladesh and Thailand have the room to cooperate with each other, he said adding that it is high time for both of the countries to boost relations with each other in order to nurture the economic diplomacy adopted in recent times.The move to sign MoU between Chittagong Port and Ranong Port shows the growing bilateral diplomatic and business relationships between the two brotherly countries, Jumma observed.Ranong Province governor Suriyan Karnjanasilp said cooperation between the two countries could be widened regionally and bilaterally by opening sea and land routes.By signing the MoU, Chittagong and Ranong will mark the beginning of a new horizon in the diplomatic and business relationships between the two friendly-countries, he hoped.He assured all out support and cooperation from his side to implement a bilateral understanding between Bangladesh and Thailand embassies.Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand Saida Muna Tasneem emphasised the need for strengthening the already established good relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand.She said Bangladesh is a member of BIMSTEC and could be considered by Thailand a hub to integrate it with other ASEAN countries.The ambassador said the involvement of a big company like Ital-Thai Development Company Limited for construction of an Elevated Express way and an agro-industrial and food conglomerate CP Bangladesh Co. Ltd are the proof of Thailand’s interest to consider Bangladesh an investment destination.She suggested establishing strategic partnership to set up labour-intensive industries in Bangladesh.President of Thai-Bangladesh Business Council (TBBC) Mingpant Chaya, International Chamber of Commerce President Mahbubur Rahman and other business leaders were present at the meeting, among others.

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Thai-BD businessmen urged to raise trade using sea portsThe Daily Sun, February 09, 2016Governor of Ranong Province of Thailand Suriyan Karnjanasilp, presently visiting with a trade delegation of Thailand urged the businessmen of Bangladesh and Thailand to enhance bilateral business by using both countries’ sea port. He made the call at a business meeting between the Bangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BTCCI) and the delegation of the Thai Port Authority held at the Dhaka Club Ltd on Monday. Bangladesh Thailand Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BTCCI) organised the meeting. The 13-member high profile Thai delegation is visiting Bangladesh to explore feasibility of signing MoU for direct coastal shipping between Chittagong port of Bangladesh in the Bay of Bengal and Ranong Port of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. Sajjatuz Jumma, President of BTCCI welcomed the delegation members and said that Bangladesh and Thailand have long-standing friendly relations as trusted and tested friends, even before the two countries established diplomatic ties on October 5, 1972. He also said that Thailand is an advanced economy, and is recognised globally as a hub of the Asia-Pacific region due to its impressive creation, innovation and development of versatile products. Being strategic partners in the region, Bangladesh and Thailand cooperate with each other both bilaterally and multilaterally. It is the high time for both of the countries to boost bilateral relations in order to nurture the economic diplomacy adopted in the recent times. Exploring MoU between Chittagong port and Ranong port is one step forward in growing bilateral diplomatic and business relationship between the two countries. Suriyan Karnjanasilp, Governor of Ranong Province of Thailand said that both the countries should extend their cooperation regionally and bilaterally by establishing sea and land routes. The MoU Chittagong and Ranong will start new horizon in the diplomatic and business relationship between two friendly countries, he said. He assured of all out support and cooperation from his side to implement a bilateral understanding between Bangladesh and Thailand embassy. He expressed the views and opinion to the business galaxy about the relevant issues of MoU. Saida Muna Tasneem, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand emphasised on strengthening the existing relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand. She also stressed on promoting the fisheries sector of Bangladesh which could be highest foreign currency earning sector. Ambassador Muna said that Bangladesh as a member of BIMSTEC could be considered by Thailand as a hub to integrate with other ASEAN countries. She said that the involvement of a big company like Ital-Thai Development Company Limited for construction of the Elevated Express way and an agro-industrial and food conglomerate CP Bangladesh Co Ltd were the proof of Thailand’s interest to consider Bangladesh as an investment destination. She also emphasised that apart from trading only, now both the countries should try to establish strategic partnerships to establish labor intensive industries in Bangladesh. Prajak Sriwatthana, Assistant Director General of Asset Management and Business Development and leader of the delegation said that Thailand’s Ranong sea port, in particular, is a capable port of entry in logistics of goods, and now it is going to be a new gateway to accommodate trade expansion between Thailand and Bangladesh. Mingpant Chaya, President of the Thai-Bangladesh Business Council (TBBC) was present in the meeting and said the economies of Bangladesh and Thailand were complementary but there were some products like agro, fisheries, machineries, leather, jute and jute goods which could be manufactured at each others point to overcome competition and for the marketing of those products globally.

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Thai province governor for raising bilateral trade through seaportsThe New Nation, 10th-Feb-2016 Economic Reporter: Ranong Province Governor of Thailand Suriyan Karnjanasilp has expressed the hope that businessmen of Bangladesh and Thailand will raise bilateral trade using seaports of both the countries.He expressed the hope in a business meeting between Bangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BTCCI) and a delegation of the Thai Port Authority at Dhaka Club in the city on Monday. BTCCI organized the meeting. A 13-member high profile Thai delegation is visiting Bangladesh to explore feasibility of signing memorandum of understanding (MoU) for direct coastal shipping between Chittagong port in the Bay of Bengal and Ranong Port of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. BTCCI President Sajjatuz Jumma welcomed the delegation members and said that Bangladesh and Thailand have long-standing friendly relations. He said Thailand is an advanced economy and is recognized globally as a hub of business in the Asia-Pacific region for its impressive creation, innovation and development of versatile products. Being strategic partners in the region, Bangladesh and Thailand have the room to cooperate with each other, he said adding that it is high time for both of the countries to boost relations with each other in order to nurture the economic diplomacy adopted in recent times.The move to sign MoU between Chittagong Port and Ranong Port shows the growing bilateral diplomatic and business relationships between the two brotherly countries, Jumma observed. Ranong Province governor Suriyan Karnjanasilp said cooperation between the two countries could be widened regionally and bilaterally by opening sea and land routes.By signing the MoU Chittagong and Ranong will mark the beginning of a new horizon in the diplomatic and business relationships between the two friendly countries, he hoped and assured all out support and cooperation from his side to implement a bilateral understanding between Bangladesh and Thailand embassies. Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand Saida Muna Tasneem emphasized the need for strengthening the already established good relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand. She said Bangladesh is a member of BIMSTEC and could be considered by Thailand as a hub to integrate it with other ASEAN countries. The ambassador said involvement of a big company like Ital-Thai Development Company Limited for construction of an Elevated Express way and an agro-industrial and food conglomerate CP Bangladesh Co. Ltd are the proof of Thailand’s interest to consider Bangladesh as an investment destination. She suggested for establishing strategic partnership to set up labour intensive industries in Bangladesh. President of Thai-Bangladesh Business Council (TBBC) Mingpant Chaya, International Chamber of Commerce President Mahbubur Rahman and other business leaders were present at the meeting, among others.

BTCCI seeks more Thai investmentFinancial Express, 05 Oct, 2015Bangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BTCCI) president sought more Thai investment by enhancing bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand.BTCCI President Sajjatuz Jumma came up with the call at the farewell ceremony of departing Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh Madurapochana Ittarong held at a city hotel on Saturday.Mr Jumma said that Bangladesh and Thailand are tested friends. He called for reducing the trade gap between two countries.

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Though the quality of Thai products is satisfactory but the price is high, he added.He also urged to the businessmen to import more products like pharmaceuticals, jute and jute goods, leather, RMG and fisheries etc from Bangladesh.The departing Thai Ambassador appreciated BTCCI to promote and develop trade, investment and industry between Bangladesh and Thailand. She assured her continued efforts to work for increasing investment in collaboration with Thai BOI and Bangladesh BOI and also with BTCCI.She said that Thailand has been maintaining good relations with Bangladesh over the years, adding that more cooperation between the private companies of the two countries would obviously boost bilateral trade.Ms Ittarong said that many Thai companies are interested to invest in the infrastructure development in Bangladesh.BTCCI honourary Director and Minister Counsellor (Commercial) of Royal Thai Embassy Wachara Chamnanwong, DCCI Former President and Chairman of Uttara Group Matiur Rahman, DCCI Former President Sayeeful Islam, BTCCI Director Mafiz A Bhuiyan, and BGMEA Director Md Munir Hossain, were present at the programme.

Thai governor for raising bilateral trade through seaportsThe News Today, Wednesday, February 10, 2016Ranong Province Governor of Thailand Suriyan Karnjanasilp has expressed the hope that businessmen of Bangladesh and Thailand will raise bilateral trade using seaports of both the countries, reports BSS. He expressed the hope in a business meeting between Bangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BTCCI) and a delegation of the Thai Port Authority at Dhaka Club in the city on Monday. BTCCI organized the meeting, said a press release. A 13-member high profile Thai delegation is visiting Bangladesh to explore feasibility of signing memorandum of understanding (MoU) for direct coastal shipping between Chittagong port in the Bay of Bengal and Ranong Port of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. BTCCI President Sajjatuz Jumma welcomed the delegation members and said that Bangladesh and Thailand have long-standing friendly relations. He said Thailand is an advanced economy and is recognized globally as a hub of business in the Asia-Pacific region for its impressive creation, innovation and development of versatile products. Being strategic partners in the region, Bangladesh and Thailand have the room to cooperate with each other, he said adding that it is high time for both of the countries to boost relations with each other in order to nurture the economic diplomacy adopted in recent times. The move to sign MoU between Chittagong Port and Ranong Port shows the growing bilateral diplomatic and business relationships between the two brotherly countries, Jumma observed. Ranong Province governor Suriyan Karnjanasilp said cooperation between the two countries could be widened regionally and bilaterally by opening sea and land routes. By signing the MoU Chittagong and Ranong will mark the beginning of a new horizon in the diplomatic and business relationships between the two friendly countries, he hoped and assured all out support and cooperation from his side to implement a bilateral understanding between Bangladesh and Thailand embassies. Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand Saida Muna Tasneem emphasized the need for strengthening the already established good relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand. She said Bangladesh is a member of BIMSTEC and could be considered by Thailand as a hub to integrate it with other ASEAN countries. The ambassador said involvement of a big company like Ital-Thai Development Company Limited for construction of an Elevated Express way and an agro-industrial and food conglomerate CP Bangladesh Co. Ltd are the proof of Thailand’s interest to consider Bangladesh as an investment destination. She suggested for establishing strategic partnership to set up labour intensive industries in Bangladesh. President of Thai-Bangladesh Business Council (TBBC) Mingpant Chaya, International Chamber of Commerce President Mahbubur Rahman and other business leaders were present at the meeting, among others.

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Thailand urged to invest in infrastructureFinancial Express, 05 Feb, 2015A trade body has urged Thai entrepreneurs to invest in Bangladesh’s infrastructure sector and establish joint-venture with local companies.Bangladesh Thai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BTCCI) has made the call at a recent meeting with a 20-member Thai Business delegation of Board of Investment (BOI) and representatives from different eight business sectors of the southeast Asian nation.Stressing the need for reducing trade gap between Thailand and Bangladesh, the BTCCI president Sajjatuz Jumma said the chamber has been playing an important role since its inception in 2003.Mr Jumma also urged the businessmen to import pharmaceuticals, jute and jute goods, leather, readymade garments and fish from Bangladesh.He placed importance on more investment in the infrastructure development of Bangladesh and go for joint-venture between Bangladeshi and Thai companies.Thai BOI deputy secretary general and leader of the Thai delegation Chokedee Kaewsang appreciated the BTCCI to promote and develop trade, investment and industry between Bangladesh and Thailand.He expressed his willingness to work for increasing investment in collaboration with the investment promotion agencies of the two countries.BTCCI vice president Mohammed Ali said that apart from jute and jute goods, leather, agro, light engineering, the Thai businessmen could invest in pharmaceuticals, RMG, tourism, frozen foods, fisheries, infrastructure and education.The representatives from different eight business sectors took part in the discussion and exchanged views with their local counterparts.

Regarding BTCCI MembershipEligibility of BTCCI Membership1. General Members Any person including firm, company or organization dealing in business primarily

with or in Thailand or in Thai Products is eligible to be a General Member of the Chamber.

2. Honorary Member The Board of Directors may invite any distinguished person to become Honorary Member of the Chamber.Membership Fees for General Members Entry Fee Tk. 20,000/- (Taka Twenty Thousand) only.Annual Subscription Tk. 10,000/- (Taka Ten Thousand) only.Membership ProcedureEligible firm / companies / organizations can collect Membership Application Form from the office of BTCCI and submit the same along with the required Membership Fee (Tk. 10,000/- as entry fee and Tk. 10,000/- as current year subscription) and their supporting documents consisting of:1. Copy of Certificate of Incorporation2. Copy of Trade License3. Copy of TIN4. Documents related to previous and current business with Thailand/Bangladesh.The membership is subject to approval by the Board of Directors of BTCCI.

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BTCCI Activities in Pictorial

Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, President or BTCCI handed over a crest to the Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand Ms. Saida Muna Tasneem in the BTCCI Luncheon Meeting in honor of Ms. Saida Muna Tasneem

Addressing by the departing Ambassador of Thailand to Bangladesh Ms. Madurapochana Ittarong in the BTCCI Farewell Party to the Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh

Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand Ms. Saida Muna Tasneem, BTCCI President Sajjatuz Jumma, Some

BTCCI Directors and Members were present in the luncheon Meeting in

honor of the Bangladesh Ambassador to Thailand.

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Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, BTCCI President addressing of welcome in the Business Meeting with the Thai Delegation to Bangladesh at the Dhaka Club Ltd.

Mr. Abu Rushe Tarek, Director Admin Addressing in the 11th Annual General

Meeting of BTCCI.

Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, President of BTCCI, Engr. Rashed Maksud Khan, Founder President of BTCCI, Mr. K Habib Sattar, Past President and Mr. Jashim U Ahmed, Immediate Past Vice President of BTCCI during the 10th AGM of BTCCI at the Dhaka Club Ltd.

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BTCCI members and Participants in the Luncheon Meeting with the newly appointed ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand Ms. Saida Muna Tasneem at the Ascot The Residence, Dhaka.

BTCCI office Bearers at the 11th Annual General Meeting of the Thai Chamber .

BTCCI newly Elected Vice President Mr. Mohammad Ali Addressing in its 11th AGM.

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BTCCI President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma Congratulating to Mr. Md. Ayub Ali, newly elected Sr. Vice President of the Chamber in its 11th Annual General Meeting (AGM).

President and some Members of BTCCI and Thai officials at the AGM of the

BTCCI.

BTCCI Secretary Mr. Md. Nazmul Hossen Addressing in its AGM.

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Mr. Phasit Chudabuddhi, Charge d’ Affairs or the Royal Thai Embassy, Dhaka receiving a flower Bouquet from Mr. Mohmmed Ali, BTCCI Vice president in its AGM.

At the BTCCI Business Meeting with the delegation of the Thai port Authority.

Mr. Sajjatuj Jumma, BTCCI President handed over a Flower Bouquet to Mr. Mingpant Chaya , President of TBBC in the BTCCI Business meeting with the delegation of the port Authority of Thailand.

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Address of welcome of Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, BTCCI President in the BTCCI Farewell Party to the Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh

Engr. Rashed Maksud Khan, BTCCI Founder President, Mr. M A Momen,

BTCCI Immediate Past President and Mr. Zafar Osman, Director of BTCCI

were present in the Business meeting with Thai Business Delegation to

Bangladesh.

Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, BTCCI President handed over a crest to the BOI Deputy Secretary General in a BTCCI business meeting with the Thai delegation to Bangladesh.

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Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, BTCCI President handing shack with Industry Minister Mr. Amir Hossain Amu during a BTCCI courtesy call on Industry Minister.

Engr. Rashed Maksud Khan, Founder President handed over a flower bouquet to the departing ambassador of Thailand

to Bangladesh Ms. Madurapochana Ittarong in BTCCI Farewell Party to the

Thai Ambassador in the Ascott Palace Ltd.

BTCCI secretary Md. Nazmul Hossen addressing in the BTCCI Farewell Party to the Thai Ambassador in the Ascott Palace Ltd.

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Mr. Sajjatuj Jumma, BTCCI President handed over a flower Bouquet to Ms. Sadia Muna Tasneem hon’ble Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand in the BTCCI business meeting with Thai Port Authority Delegation.

BTCCI President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma welcoming Mr. Montchai Musicabud,

Director of BTCCI and Managing Director of First Dhaka Elevated

Expressway Co. Ltd in the Luncheon Meeting with the newly appointed

ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand Ms. Saida Muna Tasneem at the

Ascott The Residence, Dhaka.

Mr. Phasit Chudabuddhi, Charge d‘ Affairs of the Royal Thai Embassy, Dhaka Addressing in the BTCCI AGM.

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Ms. Saida Muna Tasneem, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand, Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, BTCCI President, Mr. Quazi Feraous, Project Director of the Dhaka Elevated Expressway, Mr. Mosharraf Hossain, BTCCI Member and Mr. Md. Nazmul Hossen, BTCCI Secretary were present in the Luncheon Meeting with the Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand at the Ascott The Residence, Dhaka.

BTCCI President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma Addressing in the BTCCI AGM.

At the BTCCI business meeting with the delegation of The Port Authority of Thailand.

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Discussions between BTCCI President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma with Industry Minister Mr. Amir Hossain Amu during the BTCCI Call on Industry Minister of Bangladesh.

Mr. Phasit Chudhabuddhi, Charge d’ Afairs of the Thai Embassy, BTCCI President Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, Sr.

Vice President Mr. Md. Ayub Ali, Vice President Mohammad Ali, Past

President Mr. M.A Momen, Past President K.Habib Sattar, Director

Admin Mr. Md. Munir Hossain, Director Finance Mr. Abu Rushd Tarek in its 11th

AGM.

Mr. Suriyan Karnjanasilp, Governor of the Ranong Province of Thailand addressing in The BTCCI Business Meeting with the Delegation of the Port Authority of Thailand.

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Mr. Chokedee Kaewsang, Thai BOI Deputy Secretary General and Leader of the Thai Business Delegation handing over a gift to Mr. Sajjatuz Jumma, BTCCI President in the BTCCI Business Meeting with the Thai Business Delegation to Bangladesh.

Some BTCCI Members in its 11th Annual General Meeting(AGM).

Some BTCCI Members and Delegation Members in the BTCCI Business Meeting with the Delegation of the Thai Port Authority.