Bangladesh lost 1.4 million jobs in a decade despite 10% annual manufacturing growth: Study

Despite a decade of robust 10% annual growth in manufacturing output, including both export-oriented garments and domestic non-garment products, Bangladesh lost 1.4 million manufacturing jobs in a decade, according to a new study by Research and Policy Integration for Development (RAPID).

The study provides strong evidence of jobless growth in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector. 

According to the study findings, in 2013, factories required 220 workers to produce and export goods worth $1 million. By 2024, that number had dropped to just 94 workers, driven largely by increased automation and the adoption of advanced technologies.

"Youth unemployment is more than double the national unemployment rate," said RAPID Chairman Dr MA Razzaque while presenting the keynote paper at a programme held at a hotel in capital's Gulshan today (30 November).

The study findings were revealed at a programme held at a hotel in capital’s Gulshan on Sunday, 30 November 2025. Photo: Collected

Dr Razzaque blamed the previous government's "flawed and narrow" policy approach for the current employment crisis, noting that excessive focus on a single sector left other potential industries neglected. 

He stressed the need for a comprehensive, employment-focused policy framework for the next decade.

Speakers at the event also argued that Bangladesh's traditional education system is failing to supply the skilled workforce the economy needs.

"Access to education has expanded, but human capital is not being developed," said Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman, executive chairman of the Power and Participation Research Centre (PPRC). 

Citing the National University system, he said, "The lowest of the low-quality manpower is being produced."

He added, "Bangladesh has fallen into the trap of joyless resilience."

Business leaders, economists, and development partners also spoke at the programme.