Bangladesh’s healthcare market is set to expand significantly and could reach $23 billion by 2033, industry leaders said, as more people seek better care and chronic illnesses like diabetes and cancer become more common. At a seminar hosted by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Malik Talha Ismail Bari, the managing director and CEO of United Hospital, said the combined size of hospitals, diagnostic services, devices and medicines is currently about $14 billion and that growing demand is drawing private investment. He noted that many people travel abroad for treatment not only because some services are not available, but also because patients worry about test accuracy, unclear bills and the quality of some supplies. India remains the top destination for medical travel, followed by Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia, and many Bangladeshis choose Kolkata for perceived cleaner facilities and clearer billing. Speakers at the event pointed out that out-of-pocket spending covers about 74 percent of health costs in Bangladesh, which leaves families at risk and underlines the need for better insurance and public support. Experts praised the progress made so far but said quality and consistency must improve to match stronger performers nearby and worldwide. National Prof AK Azad Khan from the Diabetic Association said primary care and stronger management are key to raising standards across the country. DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed warned about a shortage of trained health workers, the rise of unauthorized clinics and pharmacies, weak oversight, and slow uptake of modern tools, all of which can reduce public trust. Panelists recommended practical steps to guide growth in a safe, fair way: encourage public-private partnerships, welcome responsible foreign investment, boost training for staff, modernize diagnostic tools, digitize records and make bills clearer. They said better technology, clearer pricing and stronger checks on medicines and surgical materials would help patients trust local hospitals and cut costly travel abroad. Bringing primary care closer to towns and rural areas was highlighted as a way to keep care affordable and reduce pressure on big hospitals. The mood at the seminar was hopeful: the market has room to grow and many concrete measures can make care safer, easier to use and less costly for families. With steady investment, improved skills and stronger rules, the health sector can meet rising demand, protect households from heavy medical bills and open new jobs and services for the country. Stakeholders called for steady progress and measured action to achieve these goals.
