Chief Advisor Prof Muhammad Yunus called on Chinese investors on Sunday to turn Bangladesh into a “production hub,” highlighting the country’s youthful workforce and investment potential.

Speaking at a business forum in Dhaka, Yunus noted that half of Bangladesh’s population is under 26 and ready to engage in productive sectors. According to state agency BSS, “I urge Chinese investors to make Bangladesh their home and production hub. “

Yunus also stressed the revival of Bangladesh’s traditional jute industry, calling it an “emotional issue” and urging collaboration to rebrand jute as an eco-friendly, globally competitive fibre. He further recalled the lost heritage of Dhakai Muslin, once a prized global fabric.

The event marked the visit of a 250-member Chinese business delegation, led by China’s commerce minister—a visit termed “historic” by BIDA Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury.

“This is the largest business delegation from a single country ever to visit Bangladesh,” said Chowdhury after the China-Bangladesh Conference on Investment and Trade held at BIDA headquarters.

Companies attending included six Fortune 500 firms such as PowerChina, China Road and Bridge Corporation, and Huantai Energy. A memorandum of understanding was signed between BEZA and Power China to establish a Chinese Agrivoltaics Economic Zone in Chandpur.

The visiting delegation represented four major Chinese trade bodies, and BIDA officials expressed hope that the visit would pave the way for significant investment within the next 6 to 24 months.