Platform launched to bolster supply chains ahead of LDC exit

The government, in collaboration with the United Nations, has launched a platform today aimed at strengthening Bangladesh's supply chains to support sustainable and inclusive economic growth as the country prepares to graduate from the least developed country (LDC) category next year.

Named the Resilient Supply Chains for Sustainable Trade and Investments Platform, it has been jointly initiated by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida), the Ministry of Commerce, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The platform will act as a central mechanism for policy dialogue, capacity building, and knowledge sharing, with a focus on improving supply chain development, fostering policy coherence and strengthening public–private partnerships, Bida said in a press statement.

The initiative supports Bangladesh's LDC graduation by promoting international labour standards, inclusive growth, and decent work, it added.

"Bangladesh's graduation from LDC status is a chance to build a new kind of competitiveness, one based on value, skills, quality and fairness," Lutfey Siddiqi, special envoy on international affairs to the chief adviser, said at the launching ceremony at Bida's Dhaka office.

He said the platform would bring together government, private sector and development partners to shape the country's next phase of economic development, matching growth with dignity and sustainability.

Bida Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun emphasised the need for a clear roadmap and accountability mechanisms, so that "by the end of 2026, we know exactly where we stand."

He said the platform was intended to deliver tangible progress rather than mere dialogue.

Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman said the government is advancing regulatory reforms and updating trade and investment policies in line with global standards as the country nears LDC graduation in November 2026.

"Our goal is to create a stronger, more competitive environment for both domestic and cross-border investment, ensuring sustainable growth and decent work for all," he said.

ILO Country Director for Bangladesh Max Tuñón said supply chains are ultimately about people, the workers and entrepreneurs who drive Bangladesh's economy forward.

UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller said the platform will serve as a hub for collaboration and knowledge sharing. "It will help in aligning investments, production and trade with environmental sustainability and social safeguards."