Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday said Danish company APM Terminals’ investment in the Laldia Terminal marks the beginning of a new era for Bangladesh’s trade and foreign direct investment.
“This is a new beginning for the country. It opens a new door for larger and more diversified investment from Denmark and Europe,” Prof Yunus said.
He made the remarks when a delegation from the Maersk Group and the Danish government called on him at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka.
Robert Maersk Uggla, chairman of the Maersk Group, which owns APM (AP Møller–Maersk) Terminals, led the delegation. Danish State Minister for Trade and Investment Nina Gandløse Hansen also attended the meeting.
Uggla, who came to Dhaka to attend the Laldia Terminal inauguration ceremony, said his company’s investment in the Chittagong Port terminal would be the largest by any European company in Bangladesh.
He said that once the Laldia Terminal becomes operational in 2030, it will provide a major boost to Bangladesh’s economy by enabling the arrival of larger vessels at Chittagong Port.
“It will be a sustainable port. It will create more job opportunities,” Uggla said, adding that Danish investment in such a critical sector would help attract more European investors to Bangladesh.
The Maersk Group chairman added that the company—also owner of one of the world’s largest shipping lines—plans to explore further investment opportunities in Bangladesh’s logistics and supply chain sectors.
The Chief Adviser thanked Uggla for following through on his commitment to invest in Bangladesh after their meeting in Davos in January.
“We are happy and excited,” he said, welcoming the Danish company’s decision.
Prof Yunus urged APM Terminals to fast-track construction of the Laldia Terminal, stressing that Bangladesh must create millions of manufacturing jobs and accelerate infrastructure development.
“It’ll be our economic gateway. It’ll open doors to the future,” he said, adding that transforming ports along the Chittagong shoreline into world-class facilities is vital for the country’s economic growth and trade prospects.
APM Terminals seals deal to build, operate Laldia Container Terminal
Recalling his meeting with the Chief Adviser in Davos, Uggla said the Maersk Group—owned by a foundation—was inspired by Professor Yunus’ work.
“This investment will make a big impact in the local communities,” he said, adding that the company would also focus on initiatives supporting women.
Special Envoy to the Chief Adviser Lutfey Siddiqi and PPP Authority CEO and BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun were also present at the meeting.
“This is a milestone for us,” Siddiqi said, praising the Danish investment and noting that it reflects the Interim Government’s strong commitment to attracting foreign direct investment.
Danish State Minister Hansen congratulated the Chief Adviser on the recently approved labour act, saying it would encourage more European companies to invest in Bangladesh.
SDGs Affairs Coordinator Lamiya Morshed and Danish Ambassador to Bangladesh Christian Brix Møller also attended the meeting.