Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has urged Japan’s Fast Retailing, the parent company of Uniqlo, to expand investment in the country’s textile and garment sector, highlighting opportunities in man-made fibres, technical textiles and sustainable apparel.
Rahman met Fast Retailing Chairman, President and Chief Executive Tadashi Yanai on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, to discuss investment expansion, technology transfer, workforce development and environmentally friendly manufacturing, according to reports by Bangladeshi media.
The prime minister praised the company’s longstanding business ties with Bangladesh and pledged government support, including land allocation and streamlined administrative approvals, to facilitate further investment.
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The discussions also highlighted the importance of implementing the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which is expected to strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations.
Greater investment in man-made fibres and technical textiles could help Bangladesh diversify its manufacturing base beyond conventional garment production and move into higher-value products. Technology transfer and skills development could also support productivity improvements and the adoption of more sustainable manufacturing practices.
Bangladesh, one of the world’s leading apparel-exporting countries, is seeking to strengthen its competitiveness as global buyers place increasing emphasis on product diversification, environmental standards and supply-chain resilience.
However, no specific investment amount, new factory project or formal investment commitment from Fast Retailing was announced in the reports reviewed.