Bangladesh needs a coordinated national artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem to attract investment, improve industrial productivity and strengthen the competitiveness of its businesses, speakers said at the Bangladesh AI Business Summit 2026 on Thursday.
They called for stronger collaboration among the government, businesses, universities and technology companies to accelerate AI adoption, develop skilled professionals and create an enabling environment for innovation and investment.
The summit, held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Dhaka, was jointly organised by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) and the Ministry of Science and Technology under the theme “AI-fication for Tomorrow’s Economy”.
Participants highlighted the potential of AI to transform key sectors, including ready-made garments and textiles, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, financial services, logistics and small and medium-sized enterprises. They also stressed the need to address barriers such as inadequate digital infrastructure, high technology costs, shortages of skilled workers and cybersecurity risks.
The discussions focused on building an integrated AI ecosystem, promoting industry-academia partnerships, encouraging private investment and updating policies on taxation and intellectual property rights to support innovation.
DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed, Prime Minister’s Adviser and Prime Minister’s Office spokesperson Mahdi Amin, former DCCI president Rizwan Rahman, FLAXA President Syed Nasim Manzur and Transcom Chief Executive Officer Simin Rahman were among the speakers.
President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir attended the event as the chief guest. Science and Technology and Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam and summit organising committee chair M Ruhul Quddus Talukder Dulu also attended.
Speakers said AI could help businesses improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, strengthen supply-chain management and develop new products and services. However, they cautioned that the benefits would depend on the country’s ability to build the necessary infrastructure, skills base and regulatory framework.
They also emphasised the importance of ensuring that universities and training institutions produce graduates equipped with practical AI and digital skills that meet the changing needs of industry.
The summit featured three panel discussions involving representatives from government, business and academia. Science and Technology Secretary Md Anwar Hossain, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam and DCCI leaders also took part in the discussions.
An AI exhibition held alongside the summit showcased technology and innovation through more than 150 stalls, with participation from innovators representing 20 public and private universities.
The event brought together policymakers, business leaders, technology professionals, academics and entrepreneurs to explore how AI could contribute to Bangladesh’s economic transformation and create new opportunities for businesses.