Bangladesh has charted an impressive growth trajectory over the past decade, establishing itself as one of the fastest-growing economies globally. With sustained macroeconomic stability, strong export performance, and steady social development, the country has demonstrated remarkable economic resilience. Despite global headwinds, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) forecasts GDP growth of 5.25% in FY2025, driven by rising domestic demand, investment recovery, and ongoing infrastructure development.

The government’s long-term aspirations—achieving upper-middle-income status by 2031 and a Smart Bangladesh by 2041—reflect a bold, innovation-driven agenda focused on sustainability, industrial modernization, and inclusive growth. Realizing this vision will require targeted policy reforms and strategic investments across high-potential sectors.

This panel will explore Bangladesh’s evolving investment landscape and the sectors propelling its transformation. Central to the discussion will be the role of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and high-growth industries such as Ready-Made Garments (RMG), agriculture, information technology, digital services, leather, and jute—all of which are shaping a more diversified and resilient economy.

The RMG sector remains a cornerstone of the country’s export engine, contributing significantly to employment and foreign earnings. In 2024, RMG exports surged by 7.23%, reaching $38.48 billion, underscoring its continued importance and potential for value-added growth, sustainability, and technological innovation.

Similarly, the agriculture sector, with over 70 million metric tons of annual output and exports to more than 140 countries, contributes 11.2% to GDP. With growing global demand for safe, traceable, and high-quality food, Bangladesh is well-positioned to expand its footprint in agro-processing and agri-tech.

The leather and jute industries—traditional strengths of the economy—also present significant global market opportunities. Meanwhile, the digital economy is on an upward trajectory, supported by 650,000 online freelancers, 750,000 IT professionals, and an open 100% FDI policy, generating $3.5 billion in value and opening new pathways for tech-driven growth.

Participants in this session will gain in-depth insights into Bangladesh’s economic momentum, the policy and institutional frameworks supporting investment, and the emerging opportunities for international collaboration. The discussion will equip policymakers, investors, and development partners with the knowledge and perspectives needed to shape the next phase of Bangladesh’s inclusive, innovation-led development.