Desk Report:
Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has said that there is no alternative to linking the economy with an effective political framework and action plan to address the multidimensional economic and export challenges that Bangladesh will face after its LDC transition. He said that the recommendations of experts will bring real results for the welfare of the people only when they are part of the political decision and implementation process.
The minister made these remarks as the chief guest at a seminar titled ‘Challenges in Bangladesh’s LDC Transition and Export Competitiveness’ organized by the Research and Policy Integration for Development (RAPID) and UK International Development at the Zahur Hossain Chowdhury Hall of the National Press Club in Dhaka on Monday (July 6, 2026).
The minister said that if the economy cannot be brought into the political framework, then all the discussions of experts will ultimately turn into political discussions. Because, to transform any economic plan into a practical program for the welfare of the people, political decisions, leadership and an effective implementation framework are essential. He said, ensuring the welfare of the people is the main responsibility of politics and the successful implementation of economic policies is also part of that responsibility.
Zahir Uddin Swapan said, after graduating from LDC, the challenges of Bangladesh’s export sector will not decrease, but rather increase. Considering this reality, the government has requested the relevant UN committee to postpone the graduation deadline by three years. He said, the purpose of asking for additional time is not to run away from any problem; rather, to make the country’s economy more competitive by completing the necessary policy reforms and preparations. He expressed hope that Bangladesh will get this additional time after the approval by the UN General Assembly and that time should be utilized to the maximum. He said, the most important question now is where and how to use the next three years to increase the country’s export capacity. For this, a complete list of all types of obstacles existing in the way of exports should be made and the necessary policy reforms should be prioritized.
The Minister of Information and Broadcasting said that economists will clearly highlight the challenges through research and the political leadership will shape those recommendations into an action plan for implementation. The Minister emphasized on identifying the economic challenges correctly and building the capacity to evaluate and implement them politically in order to transform Bangladesh’s potential into real success.
The event was moderated by RAPID Executive Director and Professor of Development Studies, University of Dhaka, Dr. M. Abu Yusuf, and RAPID Chairman Dr. MA Razzak presented the keynote address. Daulat Akhter Mala, President of Economic Reporters Forum, spoke as a special guest.
