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British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cook visited PRAN-RFL Group’s factories in Rajshahi and Natore on Wednesday.
She visited Rajshahi Products Limited in Shyampur, Rajshahi, and PRAN Agro Limited in Natore.
PRAN-RFL Group Director (Corporate Finance) Uzma Chowdhury welcomed the high commissioner and briefed her on the group’s production, domestic marketing and export activities.
At Rajshahi Products Limited, which was recently leased from the government and is now operated by PRAN-RFL, Cook observed the production of footwear, tents and umbrellas.
She later visited PRAN Agro Limited in Natore, where she observed the production of noodles, sauces, spices and other food products. She also planted a tree on the factory premises.
Cook praised PRAN-RFL’s modern manufacturing systems, use of technology and diverse range of products. She also discussed opportunities to expand trade and investment ties between Bangladesh and the UK.
“The UK and Bangladesh have a strong and growing trade and investment relationship. It is encouraging to see Bangladeshi companies such as PRAN-RFL successfully expanding into the UK and other international markets,” Cook said.
She said Bangladesh had strong capabilities in manufacturing and agro-processing, with significant opportunities to expand exports beyond traditional sectors.
Cook also highlighted the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), saying it provides generous trade preferences and relatively easy market access for Bangladeshi businesses.
Uzma Chowdhury said PRAN-RFL’s food products had gained a good market in the UK and that the group also exports footwear, containers, bicycles and other products there.
“We believe stronger bilateral relations will create new opportunities for trade and investment between the two countries,” she said.
The British High Commissioner’s delegation included Trade Policy Manager Shahruuf Shakir, Trade and Investment Manager Syed Habibur Rahman and other High Commission officials.