Desk Report:
With the aim of fostering the growth of the nation’s technology-driven economy, expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI), and enhancing national capabilities, the day-long ‘Bangladesh AI Business Summit 2026’ is set to take place in the capital on November 5. The international summit is being jointly organized by the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI).
The President of Bangladesh, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, has kindly consented to attend the inaugural ceremony of the summit—to be held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center (BCFEC) in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar—as the chief guest.
During a press conference held on Tuesday (November 3) at the conference room of the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Minister of Science and Technology, Fakir Mahbub Anam, outlined the overall preparations, objectives, and action plan for the summit.
At the press conference, the Minister noted that in this era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the global economy is undergoing profound transformations centered on artificial intelligence. Given this reality, it is essential to ensure the effective application of AI across Bangladesh’s industrial, commercial, and technological sectors. The core theme of this year’s summit is ‘AI-fication for Tomorrow’s Economy.’ The guiding philosophy of the summit is ‘People • Business • Intelligence’—focusing on shaping the future economy through the integration of people, business, and artificial intelligence.
The Minister further explained that the summit will feature three key thematic sessions. In the first session, policymakers and experts will discuss the trajectory of the AI revolution, relevant policies, skill development, and infrastructural challenges. Simultaneously, a second session—held in the ‘Hall of Fame’—will focus on strengthening partnerships between academia and the industrial sector, as well as strategies for technology transfer. The third session, beginning at 3:00 PM, will explore the role of AI agents as ‘digital colleagues’ and their potential in addressing local challenges. The summit will feature 142 exhibition stalls, showcasing contributions from domestic and international technology firms, startups, and innovators. Over 150 startups and technology companies will present their innovative concepts, technologies, and projects. Additionally, students from 20 educational institutions—comprising 19 universities and one college—will display AI-related projects and prototypes they have developed. International participation includes five foreign exhibitors: one from the United States and four from Pakistan.
The organizers anticipate an attendance of approximately 6,000 visitors and 2,000 invited guests. The Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) and the Ministry of Science and Technology will host 200 special guests. Around 27 speakers and panelists—including policymakers, industry experts, academics, researchers, corporate leaders, and representatives from development partner organizations—will participate in the summit.
Speaking at a press conference, Md. Anwar Hossain, Secretary of the Ministry of Science and Technology, stated that the Ministry’s operations are built upon four key pillars: promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education from the primary to the university level; transforming research-based knowledge and innovations into market-ready solutions; establishing effective links between researchers, investors, and the market; and prioritizing high-potential sectors such as AI, semiconductors, biotechnology, nanotechnology, space research, and the blue economy.
He further noted that the country produces a large number of talented graduates. By leveraging their skills, there is significant potential to establish biotech parks dedicated to the development of new pharmaceuticals and lifestyle-related products.
DCCI President Md. Taskeen Ahmed remarked that this event has been made possible through the sincere cooperation of the Minister of Science and Technology. He sought the support of the media in highlighting the significance of the ‘Bangladesh AI Business Summit’ to the public.
Senior officials from the Ministry, including Additional Secretaries, along with journalists from various media outlets, were present at the press conference.
