In a significant move to strengthen supply chains as drivers of inclusive growth and job creation, Bangladesh has launched a pioneering collaborative platform involving both government and industry stakeholders. The initiative, unveiled at the BIDA Investment Summit, is designed to foster policy discussions and knowledge sharing between policymakers and industry leaders, focusing on strategies that support decent work, local job creation, and economic growth.
The newly established Platform for Resilient Supply Chains aims to encourage industry leaders to share successful practices, improve value addition, enhance working conditions, and increase global market competitiveness. It will also facilitate proactive discussions on the necessary policies and investments that contribute to productivity and inclusive growth.
The platform was formally launched through a Letter of Intent (LoI) signed by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), the Ministry of Commerce (MoC), the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The signing ceremony also saw participation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
The LoI outlines a comprehensive framework for cooperation, including the creation of thematic and sectoral working groups supported by a secretariat consisting of BIDA, MoC, ILO, and UNDP. The initiative has received praise from development partners as a model for coordinated development cooperation and public-private dialogue, particularly as development aid increasingly targets impactful, scalable projects.
This platform comes at a crucial time as Bangladesh prepares for its transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026, aligning with the Government’s commitments to the ILO’s Committee of Experts on the Application of Conventions and Recommendations (CEACR), as outlined in the Labour Sector Reform Roadmap (2021–2026).
Ashik Chowdhury, Executive Chairman of BIDA, expressed, “The signing symbolises our shared goal to establish Bangladesh as a premier destination for responsible investment. By aligning public policy with private sector initiatives, we are cultivating an environment that encourages innovation, good governance, and business growth.”
In a joint statement, Tuomo Poutiainen, ILO Country Director, and Stefan Liller, UNDP Resident Representative, emphasized, “This initiative represents a new paradigm in development cooperation that underscores policy coherence, cross-sector collaboration, and national ownership. By integrating decent work standards into trade and investment strategies, Bangladesh is paving the way for more resilient, inclusive, and job-rich growth.”
Team Europe and Global Affairs Canada also expressed their strong support for Bangladesh’s commitment to decent work and responsible business practices. They highlighted the importance of this partnership as Bangladesh approaches its LDC graduation in 2026, aiming to diversify exports, strengthen labor rights, and bolster the country’s reputation as a responsible sourcing destination.
Operational activities and stakeholder engagement are expected to begin in the third quarter of 2025.
