DHAKA, Dec 22, 2025 (BSS) - The Japan-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JBCCI) has welcomed the announcement that the Governments of Bangladesh and Japan have reached an Agreement in Principle on the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). 
 
"This important development marks a major step toward the finalization of a comprehensive economic partnership between the two countries," said JBCCI President Tareq Rafi Bhuiyan (Jun) through a press release issued today.
 
Jun said that the EPA aims to deepen trade, investment, and service linkages and is expected to play a pivotal role as Bangladesh transitions from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026.
 
The current agreement in principle reflects alignment on the structure and key provisions of the EPA, with formal signing to follow upon completion of necessary legal and cabinet-level processes in both countries, he added.
 
He appreciated the tireless efforts of the negotiation teams, particularly the Ministry of Commerce (Bangladesh), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Japan), BIDA, and the Joint Study Group. 
 
"We also commend the active participation of our members, whose inputs helped ensure the EPA reflects the needs of real businesses," he added.
 
As the process now enters its legal and ratification phase, the JBCCI president committed to supporting implementation, capacity building, and outreach so that the benefits of this landmark agreement are maximized for both nations.