State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, now visiting Spain, has highlighted Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to diversify exports, attract foreign investment and foster a more business-friendly environment.

Inaugurating the third Bangladesh-Spain Expo 2026 in Seville, she drew attention to emerging opportunities in pharmaceuticals, leather and footwear, agro-processing, information technology, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing.

The State Minister encouraged Spanish entrepreneurs and investors to explore Bangladesh’s growing market and manufacturing capabilities.

Masudur Rahman, Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Spain; Rocío Blanco, Minister of Employment, Business and Self-Employment of the Regional Government of Andalusia; and Ashiqur Rahman, President of the Spain-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce, also spoke at the event.

The event also brought together Antonio Gutiérrez Limones, Vice Chairman of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee; José Agustín González Romo, Director General of Andalusia Global; Manuel Parejo Guzmán, Director of the Open for Business Office at Seville City Council; and María Isabel Romero Arias, President of the Islamic Junta.

Around 40 Bangladeshi and Spanish companies from diverse sectors, including ready-made garments, leather, agro-processing, jute products, chemicals and household items, showcased their products to attract buyers and business partners from both countries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Financial and logistical support available to businesses was also highlighted at the expo.

The State Minister appreciated the initiative of the Spain-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry to bring together business communities and create opportunities for networking, knowledge-sharing and commercial engagement.

She also acknowledged the contributions of late President Ziaur Rahman and late Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia to the development of Bangladesh’s vibrant ready-made garment sector.

Referring to Bangladesh’s golden fibre, jute, she underscored its potential in the growing global market for sustainable materials, including innovative applications in contemporary fashion, design and environmentally friendly consumer products.

She also highlighted the potential of the creative economy, including design, fashion and cultural industries, to foster innovation and generate employment.

The one-day expo is expected to strengthen Bangladesh-Spain trade and investment ties by fostering closer engagement between the business communities of the two countries, promoting export diversification in the Spanish market and opening new avenues for mutually beneficial cooperation in trade, investment, innovation, the creative economy and sustainable production.

Bangladesh is seeking to expand its exports to Spain by diversifying its export basket, strengthening business links and exploring new avenues of economic cooperation.

Spain-Bangladesh Chamber Member and Bangladeshi community leader Monwar Hossain Monu supervised the event.