KOTRA Dhaka Trade Center 2021 Annual Report Overview
In 2021, the KOTRA Dhaka Trade Center intensified its Korean export promotion and investment facilitation activities in a Bangladesh market experiencing a strong V-shaped post-COVID recovery. The center achieved an export contribution of USD 38 million, 120 investment consultations, and 350 buyer matches — with online-offline hybrid business matching establishing itself as the new normal.
Export Support Outcomes
Export consultations and buyer matching were most active across textiles and raw materials, machinery and equipment, chemicals and plastics, and IT and electronics. Fifteen virtual video consultation sessions were held, and Korean pavilion operations at the Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) raised local brand awareness.
| Sector | Consultations | Est. Contracts | Key Products | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Textiles and Raw Materials | 120 cases | $15M | Synthetic fibers, fabrics, dyes | +20% |
| Machinery and Equipment | 80 cases | $10M | Garment machines, packaging, molds | +40% |
| Chemicals and Plastics | 60 cases | $6M | Resins, pigments, adhesives | +30% |
| IT and Electronics | 50 cases | $5M | Semiconductors, displays, components | +50% |
| Food and Consumer Goods | 40 cases | $2M | Instant noodles, cosmetics, daily necessities | +25% |
Investment and Market Trends
Bangladesh GDP grew 6.9% in FY2020-21, delivering a V-shaped recovery. RMG exports rebounded to USD 35.8 billion, and Korean company inquiries regarding EPZ/SEZ investment increased. Korean firms are in the process of entering BEZA economic zones and Japan-led industrial parks.