Indonesian Ambassador to Bangladesh Heru Hartanto Subolo said that there have potentials of exporting pharmaceuticals, jute products and recycled yarn from Bangladesh to eliminate the trade deficit with Indonesia.
He was exchanging views with the directors of Chattogram Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) in a meeting held at the World Trade Center on Sunday.
The envoy said, Bangladesh is moving ahead in food production. But food storage and processing lag behind. Indonesia has created its own brand in food preservation and halal food export in the world.
He emphasized on research to implement the Memorandum of Understanding on Agriculture between Indonesia and Bangladesh.
He mentioned Chattogram's Matarbari 500 MW solar power project, 100 km transmission line, expansion of gas pipeline in Bhola and Barisal region highlighted the issues of Indonesian investment proposal in the renewable energy sector. He presented a documentary on trade and investment opportunities in tourism, manufacturing, infrastructure, food and agriculture and renewable energy sectors of both countries.
Chattogram sees various infrastructural developments which also have the geographical advantages, Chamber President Omar Hazzaz said adding that Bangladesh is one of the top 10 countries in the world in food production. But one-third of Bangladesh's total food production, or $3 billion, is wasted due to lack of storage or processing. Indonesia has a global reputation for halal food and food processing.
Chamber Directors AKM Akhtar Hossain, Zahirul Islam Chowdhury (Alamgir), Anjan Shekhar Das, Mahfuzul Haque Shah, Mahbubul Haque Mia, Mohammad Monir Uddin and Akhtar Uddin Mahmud spoke. Indonesia Embassy affirs Robbi Firly Harkha, Economic affairs Sapto Rudiyanto and the Chamber officials were present.
