Doing Business in Bangladesh Guide

Country overview

Bangladesh is a South Asian country on the Bay of Bengal, and bordered by India and Myanmar (Burma), with predominantly rich, fertile and flat ground. With a population of 163 million, it has the highest population density in the world.

More than 25% of people live below the poverty line, but the overall strength of economic growth has contributed to a substantial decrease in poverty over the past decade. The government’s “Vision 2021” aims to eliminate extreme poverty completely and achieve Middle Income Country (MIC) status by 2021, the 50^th anniversary of the country’s birth. It is a plan for growth through massive investment in infrastructure, skills development and trade. Co-operation with the private sector and international donor agencies is expected.

Bangladesh’s highly-competitive ready-made garment (RMG) sector accounts for over 80% of export earnings and around 12% of GDP. With pressure and support from western governments and investors following the collapse of the Rana Plaza building in 2013, the government is working to improve labour conditions and building safety in an industry, the good health of which is important for Bangladesh’s future growth.

English is widely spoken in business and there is a strong consumer demand for British products, equipment and service.

About this guide

This guide aims to provide a route map of the way ahead, together with signposts to other sources of help.

The main objective of this Doing Business in Bangladesh Guide is to provide you with basic knowledge about Bangladesh; an overview of its economy, business culture, potential opportunities and to identify the main issues associated with initial research, market entry, risk management and cultural and language issues.

We do not pretend to provide all the answers in the guide, but novice exporters in particular will find it a useful starting point. Further assistance is available from the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Bangladesh. Full contact details are available in this guide.

To help your business succeed in Bangladesh we have carefully selected a variety of essential service providers as ‘Market Experts’ Click Here

The guide is available in 4 formats:

this website
a ‘free’ downloadable 'mobile device-friendly’ app – available from the iTunes App Store and Google Play store
a full colour hard-copy brochure (to order your copy please Click Here)
PDF download/e-flipbook (available to download below)

About IOE&IT

An introduction to the Institute of Export & International Trade

Established in 1935, the Institute of Export & International Trade is the professional membership body representing and supporting the interests of everyone involved in importing, exporting and international trade. Offering a unique range of individual and business membership benefits and a world renowned suite of qualifications and training, the Institute is the leading authority in best practice and competence for businesses trading globally.

To view other videos, please visit the IOE&IT YouTube Channel.

For more information visit: www.export.org.uk