Regulating Foreign Direct Investment for Development: Perspectives from Bangladesh

This book offers a comprehensive overview of the relationship between Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) regulation and sustainable development in Bangladesh.

It is widely accepted that FDI-induced development is essential for the growth of undeveloped economies, but it can create a conflict between the investors’ goal of profit maximisation and the host state’s pursuit of economic gains. FDI-induced development is especially important for the economy of Bangladesh, the focus of this book, which argues that a balanced regulatory approach is necessary to ensure that FDI benefits all stakeholders. In examining Bangladesh’s FDI regulatory regime, the authors reveal that it is investor-centric and lacks a development-oriented approach. They discuss the relevant laws, practices, mechanisms, and institutions that govern the entrance regulations and incentives for foreign investment, as well as the protection of the environment and human rights, with special attention to labour rights, involuntary displacement, and the protection of both the investors and the state in which they invest. From this analysis, the book recommends reforms to introduce development as a primary goal while maintaining Bangladesh’s appeal as an FDI destination.

The book will be of interest to researchers, students, and academics in the fields of economics, politics, sustainable development, and economic growth. It will also be of great interest to FDI strategists, policymakers, negotiators, administrators, and legislators in creating a balanced regulatory regime to attract FDIs for development.

Nakib Mohammad Nasrullah is a Professor of law at the University of Dhaka.

Mia Mahmudur Rahim is an Associate Professor of law at the University of New England and a Professor in Residence at the National Law University, Meghalaya.