Dr. Md. Zahir Uddin’s professional journey is one of perseverance, intellectual dedication, and entrepreneurial success. As the President of Cross Continent Corporation, Zahir has become a driving force in the global trade of motor vehicles, particularly between Japan, Bangladesh, and other international markets. His story is not just about business success but also about integrity, hard work, and a deep sense of gratitude for his roots and the support of those who stood by him.
Zahir Uddin’s academic and professional trajectory began in Kushtia, Bangladesh, where he was born and raised. Growing up in a culture that valued education, Zahir set out early to make his mark. He completed his SSC and HSC in Kushtia before enrolling at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) in Dhaka, one of the most prestigious institutions in the country. In 1989, he graduated with a degree in engineering, laying the foundation for what would become a distinguished career in both public service and international business.
After completing his education, Zahir embarked on his professional career in 1990 when he took on the role of Assistant Director (Engineering) at the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA). His tenure at the BRTA, lasting until 1995, was marked by unwavering dedication to improving the country’s infrastructure. It was during this time that Zahir’s commitment to engineering and public service began to take shape, earning him a reputation as a diligent and capable professional.
However, it was a significant opportunity in 1995 that would change the course of Zahir’s life. He received a prestigious World Bank Scholarship to study in Japan, marking the beginning of a transformative journey. He moved to Yokohama, Japan, where he pursued a two-year course in Infrastructure Management at Yokohama National University. This academic sojourn culminated in 1997, when Zahir completed his Doctorate in Engineering. His studies in Japan refined not only his technical expertise but also his global perspective, enabling him to bridge the gap between the East and the West.
Zahir’s journey was far from conventional, and in 2002, he made a bold entrepreneurial leap by co-founding Cross Continent Corporation with his wife, Keiko. Based in Nagoya, Japan, the company was established with a singular mission: to engage in the export and import of new, reconditioned, and used motor vehicles worldwide. The company’s foundations were laid with the support of Zahir’s wife’s family, whose invaluable help played a key role in the venture’s success. Grateful for the support, Zahir always acknowledges his in-laws’ significant contributions to the business.
Under Zahir’s leadership, Cross Continent Corporation grew rapidly, adopting the motto “Honesty is Our Policy,” a phrase that encapsulates the core values that drive the company. Zahir’s business model was built on trust, transparency, and delivering high-quality products to international markets. This approach proved successful, and within a short period, Cross Continent became a major player in the global vehicle export industry.
The company exports between 1,000 to 1,200 vehicles per month, ranging from private cars to mini-busses, vans, and trucks. These vehicles are shipped to diverse markets, including Bangladesh, Kenya, Russia, and Dubai, among others. Cross Continent Corporation’s impact on the international trade of motor vehicles is profound, with its footprint extending to various countries across continents. Zahir’s entrepreneurial vision and commitment to excellence have turned Cross Continent into a dynamic global business.
However, Zahir’s success is not only defined by his professional accomplishments. He remains deeply connected to his cultural and familial roots. His gratitude for his wife Keiko and her family’s unwavering support is a hallmark of his character. Zahir’s ability to balance professional success with a strong sense of family loyalty and humility speaks to his deep values.
Through his journey, Zahir has demonstrated that the path to success is not always linear. His academic journey at BUET and Yokohama National University, his transition from the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) to international business, and his eventual success as an entrepreneur are all testaments to his resilience, intellect, and adaptability.
Today, Zahir Uddin stands as a symbol of entrepreneurial vision, integrity, and perseverance. His story is one of dedication to excellence and a reflection of the power of global networking, academic achievement, and a deep sense of responsibility toward both his professional and personal commitments.
Dr. Md. Zahir Uddin’s leadership of Cross Continent Corporation is a beacon of success that inspires others to pursue their goals with honesty and determination. His remarkable journey, from a young engineer in Kushtia to the President of a globally recognized company in Japan, proves that with dedication, hard work, and integrity, the possibilities are limitless.
