Dhaka/Beijing, May 26, 2025 — The Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh has issued a stern advisory to its citizens, urging them not to engage in cross-border matchmaking, particularly cautioning against marrying Bangladeshi nationals or "purchasing" foreign wives through illegal means.
The advisory, which was published on the Embassy’s official website and circulated widely among Chinese nationals in Bangladesh, comes amid growing concerns over matchmaking scams and increasing reports of fraudulent marriages involving Chinese citizens.
"Do Not Buy Wives from Abroad or Marry in Bangladesh"
The embassy’s strongly worded message advises Chinese nationals to avoid falling into the trap of matchmaking agents operating in Bangladesh, warning that such arrangements often result in deception, legal complications, or even human trafficking.
"Do not buy wives from abroad, and avoid dating or marrying in Bangladesh under any circumstances," the advisory states. It also reiterates that forced or fraudulent marriages are illegal and punishable under both Bangladeshi and Chinese law.
Backdrop of Past Incidents
The advisory appears to be a response to rising incidents involving Chinese men being lured by agents into fraudulent or exploitative marriages in Bangladesh and neighboring countries. On August 5 last year, Bangladeshi authorities reportedly cracked down on a matchmaking ring involving Chinese nationals and local women, some of whom were allegedly trafficked under the guise of marriage.
Several Chinese citizens were detained during the operation, prompting diplomatic tensions and a subsequent investigation by both countries.
Human Trafficking Concerns
Human rights groups have long raised alarms over the emergence of cross-border bride trafficking networks in South Asia, where vulnerable women from impoverished communities are targeted with false promises of wealth or stability abroad.
The Chinese government has been particularly sensitive to this issue, given its skewed gender ratio and past controversies surrounding trafficking in women from countries such as Vietnam, Pakistan, and Myanmar.
Advice for Citizens
The embassy urged all Chinese citizens residing in or traveling to Bangladesh to remain vigilant, follow local laws, and report any suspicious activity related to matchmaking or marriage scams.
“Respect local customs and laws, and seek relationships based on mutual understanding and legal recognition,” the statement emphasized.
As global migration increases and cultural exchanges deepen, the Chinese government has taken a proactive stance in discouraging exploitative practices that not only tarnish its image but also endanger the lives of both its citizens and foreign nationals.
