Bangladesh is seeking to transform its economy from one driven by low-cost labour to one powered by knowledge, innovation and advanced technologies, Science and Technology and Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam said on Sunday.
Speaking at the second day of the two-day National Semiconductor Symposium and BEAR Summit 2026 at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre in Dhaka, the minister said the government was prioritising the development of high-tech industries, including artificial intelligence (AI), advanced chip design and bioelectronics.
“Our goal is to establish Bangladesh not only as a user of technology but also as a developer and manufacturer of cutting-edge technologies,” he said while delivering the keynote address at a session titled Bangladesh Deep-Tech Future.
The minister called for greater emphasis on developing and exporting technology products and services under the “Made in Bangladesh” brand, saying the country should position itself as a competitive player in the global technology market.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the semiconductor and deep-tech sectors, expressing confidence that Bangladesh’s young people would lead the country’s technological transformation.
“The government will stand beside our young innovators through research, innovation and supportive policies,” he said.
Anam said the BEAR Summit had demonstrated that Bangladesh was attracting growing international interest from the global technology community.
“This summit has shown that Bangladesh is not alone. Leading global technology companies, universities, industry leaders, members of the Bangladeshi diaspora and international experts are joining us. This is not merely a conference—it marks the beginning of a movement,” he said.
Addressing business leaders attending the event, the minister described the current administration as “highly business-friendly” and pledged continued government support for the private sector.
“You will always find me by your side whenever needed. We will do everything necessary to create opportunities for businesses and accelerate the country’s technological advancement,” he said.
The programme also featured a keynote presentation during the Global Academic Plenary Session by Professor Dimitrios Peroulis, Senior Vice President of Purdue University.
Among those attending the event were Science and Technology Secretary Md Anwar Hossain, Professor Mohammad Mostafa Hossain of Purdue University and Chief Architect of Silicon River Bangladesh, and Mohammad Mizanur Rahman Bhuiyan, Director General of the Novo Theatre.