Japan's Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Eyes Bangladesh Ship Recycling Sector

Japan's leading shipping company, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), has officially expressed its keen interest in investing and offering technical cooperation within Bangladesh's expanding ship recycling sector. This strategic interest from a major international maritime enterprise marks a notable development for the country's heavy industrial capabilities and highlights growing foreign confidence in the local market.

The formal expression of interest came to light during a significant official meeting held on September 2, 2026, at the Ministry of Industries located in Dhaka, Bangladesh. During this gathering, a high-level delegation from Mitsui O.S.K. Lines met directly with Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, who serves as the Minister for Industries, Commerce, and Textiles and Jute.

The visiting delegation from Mitsui O.S.K. Lines included several key figures representing the Japanese shipping giant. Among those present at the Ministry of Industries were delegates Kentaro Ueda, Takaha Uematsu, and Senji Tokumoto, alongside Abdun Naser Khan, engaging in extensive discussions with Bangladeshi government officials regarding future bilateral industrial cooperation.

Providing context on the current operational landscape during the discussions, it was noted that there are presently about 31 green ship recycling facilities operating actively across Bangladesh. Building upon this established foundation, the government has formulated ambitious plans to significantly increase this number, targeting a triple-digit count of operational green facilities over the next few years.

Emphasizing the broader economic significance of these sectors, Minister Khandaker Abdul মুক্তাদির (Muktadir) highlighted that ship recycling and shipbuilding industries can play a vital role in Bangladesh's overall industrialization, employment generation, and economic growth. He further noted that the development of these two distinct sectors will not only enhance industrial capacity but also prove instrumental in facilitating technology transfer, developing a skilled workforce, expanding investments, and boosting export capabilities.