DBCCI hosts Bangladesh–Netherlands ICT collaboration seminar
The Dutch-Bangla Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DBCCI), in collaboration with the Bangladesh Embassy in the Netherlands and North South University, organised a high-level international seminar titled "Unlocking International Market Opportunities: Bangladesh–Dutch ICT Industry Collaboration" on 29 January, 2026 at the Syndicate Hall of North South University in Dhaka.
The seminar was held in a hybrid format, enabling participation from both Bangladesh and the Netherlands.
The event aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Bangladesh and the Netherlands in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector by bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, academics, entrepreneurs, and investors from both countries.
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The seminar took place from 3:30pm to 7:30pm Bangladesh time, corresponding to 10:30am to 2:30pm Netherlands time, to facilitate international participation.
Bangladesh's ICT sector has experienced significant growth over the past decade, driven by a skilled youth population, competitive service costs, and rising public and private investment. Meanwhile, the Netherlands has emerged as a major European hub for innovation, fintech, cybersecurity, smart logistics, and digital trade.
Despite strong potential, many Bangladeshi ICT firms continue to face challenges in accessing European Union markets, meeting compliance requirements, and establishing reliable partnerships in Europe. The seminar sought to address these gaps and develop a practical roadmap for long-term collaboration.
The programme featured keynote presentations, industry talks, academic perspectives, and an interactive panel discussion on building a Bangladesh–Dutch ICT collaboration roadmap. Distinguished speakers included senior government officials, university leaders, industry experts, and international ICT professionals from Bangladesh, the Netherlands, and Japan.
Key addresses were delivered by DBCCI President Md Shakwat Hossain Mamun, the vice-chancellor and chairman of the board of trustees of North South University, the secretary of the ICT Division, Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, and the chargés d'affaires of the Bangladesh Embassy in The Hague.
International experts from ABN AMRO, Cisco Netherlands, and other leading ICT organisations shared insights on global market entry, regulatory compliance, innovation, and cross-border collaboration.
The seminar also explored academic–industry partnerships, talent development, research collaboration, and innovation opportunities through universities. A dedicated dialogue session focused on identifying actionable pathways for ICT trade, joint ventures, investment, technology transfer, and ecosystem support between the two countries.
The programme was sponsored by NexKraft Ltd., Provati Insurance PLC, Foodi Bangladesh, Soft BD Ltd., Sabre BD Ltd., MindShaper, Jol Chaya, and Edugenious, with media partnership support from Rupali Bangladesh, ETV, and Brand Story.
Expected outcomes of the seminar include increased awareness of European and Dutch ICT market opportunities, stronger business networks, improved understanding of compliance and collaboration models, and follow-up initiatives by DBCCI to support ICT trade and investment.
The event concluded with a networking dinner aimed at fostering relationship-building among stakeholders and promoting future partnerships.
