Growing up in Bangladesh, there are very few career paths you are steered towards by family, teachers, schools and society. Most of these include traditional desk jobs.

Growth has been the constant in the journey of the Bangladesh economy over the last two decades. Starting from 2004, excluding the outlier year of 2020 when the world economy was severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, Bangladesh has maintained a growth rate of over five percent or more.

Today, Bangladesh boasts an impressive GDP size of $455.2 billion, estimated to be the 33rd biggest economy in the world in nominal terms, and is ranked 25th in the world in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP).

Bangladesh has emerged as a significant player in the global garment industry, securing its position as the second-largest garment exporter worldwide. The country’s remarkable journey from economic struggles to becoming a key player in the textile and apparel sector is a testament to its resilience and adaptability.

The Karnaphuli Tunnel, an ambitious project, seeks to enhance connectivity in the southeastern part of Bangladesh, bridging the gap between Chittagong and Cox’s Bazar. Approved in 2016, this underwater tunnel is designed to span the Karnaphuli River, aiming to reduce travel time and traffic congestion.

Bangladesh’s foreign inclinations increasingly sway between “umbilical” and “geopolitical” poles, as principles, policies and preferences compete for priority.

Bangladesh has kicked off the year with the first of many important national elections to be held around the world.

Bangladesh is rapidly reaching a tipping point, where the country’s middle-class will expand dramatically over the next several years. At present, more than a fifth or about 34 million of the country’s total population belong to the middle-class category (defined as having per capita income ranging between $2 to $3 per day).

Bangladesh undeniably stands out as one of the most promising economies in the region. Despite facing resource constraints, the country has made commendable economic and social progress since independence.

Over the past 52 years, Bangladesh has achieved remarkable progress in the agricultural sector, thanks to the hard work and innovation of millions of small farmers, researchers, innovators and government support.

“The time to take action to save the planet is not tomorrow, but today.”

Like the previous years, The Daily Star is proud to present to you yet another colourful, well-illustrated 200-page special supplement in five segments on the occasion of its 33rd anniversary.