Bangladesh stands on the cusp of a transformative future, a trajectory that hinges significantly on its ability to enhance labour productivity, according to Sk. Bashir Uddin, the Commerce Adviser. Speaking at a recent workshop and seminar in Dhaka, Bashir highlighted that by strategically leveraging its vibrant demographic dividend, Bangladesh can unlock unprecedented economic growth and achieve greater prosperity. The Commerce Adviser shared his insights during the “Automobile Policy for Green Growth and Competitive Economy” event held on June 25, 2025, at the Economic Reporters’ Forum (ERF) auditorium. Bashir underscored that Bangladesh is blessed with a youthful and energetic population, a powerful asset that, if empowered with increased productivity, could propel the nation to new heights. While acknowledging certain existing challenges, such as high logistics costs that remain among the highest globally, his address consistently focused on the immense potential for positive change through targeted interventions. To effectively harness this demographic strength and improve overall labour productivity, Bashir stressed the importance of several strategic actions. He called for a shift in policy direction, emphasizing the need to build robust state capacity and rectify past governance errors. These measures are crucial for creating an environment conducive to efficient economic activity and sustainable growth. Furthermore, a significant focus was placed on the imperative to reduce logistics costs, which, if streamlined, could dramatically improve Bangladesh’s competitiveness in both domestic and international markets. Dr. M Masrur Reaz, who leads Policy Exchange Bangladesh, shared similar thoughts, emphasizing that improving trade, boosting investment, and developing transport connections are essential for Bangladesh to achieve its goals.becoming an upper-middle-income country. The collective message from the seminar was clear: by prioritizing investments in human capital, implementing smart policies, and fostering an environment of efficiency and good governance, Bangladesh can successfully transform its challenges into opportunities. The expected benefits are substantial, promising not only accelerated economic growth but also enhanced global competitiveness, ultimately paving the way for a more prosperous and equitable future for all its citizens. Through these focused efforts, Bangladesh is poised to unlock the full potential of its workforce, securing a brighter tomorrow.
