Imagine a thriving sector where skilled workers build eco-friendly ships that sail the world, creating thousands of opportunities along the way—a recent seminar in the capital highlighted just that, sparking hope for Bangladesh’s shipping industry to become a major player on the global stage. Organized by the International Business Forum of Bangladesh, the event focused on environment-friendly shipbuilding and industrialization, bringing together experts who shared ideas on turning this field into a powerhouse. Economist Zaidi Sattar, in his main talk, explained how making the industry green and safe could lead to exporting ships worth a billion dollars in just three to five years, while opening up around 100,000 new jobs for people across the country. He pointed out that Bangladesh shines in making smaller and medium-sized vessels, like multipurpose ships and ferries up to 12,000 tons, tapping into a huge global market valued at 115 billion dollars. Even grabbing one percent of that could bring in a billion dollars each year, building on the current ability to produce about 20 ships annually. To get there, he suggested offering cash rewards, easy imports of materials without duties, growing supporting industries, affordable loans, and a push for variety in what gets made. The gathering also heard from key figures like the industries adviser, who stressed the need for ships that meet worldwide green standards, including renewable energy use and certifications to lead in future sea trade. Another speaker from the finance side talked about bringing in new tech through growth, spreading out export types as the country moves forward, and handling ups and downs in world trade with solid bank guarantees and insurance. The forum’s leader welcomed everyone by noting how over 50 locally built ships already trade with 18 countries, earning valuable foreign money, but called for a five-million-dollar fund, longer low-cost loans for green setups, and doubling export incentives to 12 percent to match rivals like India and Vietnam. Other participants echoed the excitement, saying strategic plans and bank help could help compete in commercial areas against places like Croatia. This focus on clean practices not only protects the environment but also builds a welcoming workplace, drawing in talent and investment. By embracing these steps, the industry can ride the current wave of rising demand, which comes every decade, to create steady work and boost the economy. It’s a chance to diversify beyond traditional strengths, fostering skills in design, engineering, and assembly that benefit families and communities. With teamwork between businesses, experts, and officials, Bangladesh can sail toward a prosperous future, where shipbuilding becomes a symbol of innovation and opportunity, inspiring young people to join and helping the nation shine brighter on the international map.
