Reviving trust in numbers: Why the BBS must modernise now
As Bangladesh strives for sustainable development, the credibility of its data systems has never been more critical. But with outdated methods, fragmented coordination, and a lack of independence, the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics is in urgent need of reform
In an era where data drives every decision—from GDP forecasting to poverty alleviation—it is no exaggeration to say that the strength of a nation rests on the credibility of its statistics. For Bangladesh, that responsibility lies squarely with the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS). Yet despite its pivotal role, the BBS continues to grapple with outdated practices, limited transparency, and questions over its independence.
If Bangladesh is to progress toward sustainable development and effective policymaking, the time to reform and modernise the BBS is now.
A crisis of credibility
Recently, Bangladesh's export data for FY24 had to be revised significantly—down to $13.8 billion for the July–April period—after discrepancies emerged between figures from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), Bangladesh Bank, and the BBS. This revision, triggered by a request from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), exposed deeper structural weaknesses in how trade statistics are compiled and coordinated. It also reignited public concerns over whether BBS data remains immune to political pressure.
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The implications go far beyond a simple number. When foundational data—such as export earnings or inflation—is questioned, the entire ecosystem of planning, investment, and international credibility is at risk.
Time for a digital leap
Modernisation begins with embracing technology. The BBS must transition from manual, paper-based surveys to mobile and digital data collection tools. Real-time monitoring using AI, GIS, and satellite imagery should become the norm, not the exception. Globally, national statistics offices are adopting automated systems that can detect errors and inconsistencies before they become public missteps.
Malaysia's uCustoms, South Korea's UNI-PASS, and Vietnam's VNACCS platforms show what's possible when data systems are digitised, centralised, and made transparent. South Korea's K-STAT portal, for example, provides open access to trade data, enabling businesses, journalists, and policymakers to engage with reliable figures in real time.
Bangladesh must follow suit.
Strengthening independence and oversight
Legal reform is equally important. While the Statistics Act of 2013 gives BBS the authority to produce and publish official statistics, enforcement is often patchy. Other agencies require BBS clearance to publish data, but the system lacks teeth. Without genuine autonomy and legal protection from political interference, BBS risks becoming a data processor instead of a trusted national authority.
To address this, the government has recently introduced two policies on data dissemination and statistical reporting. These empower the BBS Director General to release sensitive indicators like GDP and inflation, following consultation with newly formed technical committees. While this is a promising step, more needs to be done to insulate the institution from undue influence.
A new model for collaboration
Bangladesh's data landscape is fragmented. The EPB, NBR, and Bangladesh Bank operate in silos, leading to duplication, inefficiencies, and confusion. What we need is a Centralised Trade Data Hub, governed by a single digital platform and guided by ASEAN Single Window (ASW) standards. Coordination is not just a bureaucratic necessity—it is fundamental to economic credibility.
Furthermore, BBS should collaborate with universities and development partners to run third-party audits, ensuring external checks and validation. Building capacity through training in AI, big data, and visualisation tools will empower officials to produce more timely and meaningful insights.
What can be done in the next few months?
Not all reforms require years to implement. Some practical, quick wins include:
- Launching a real-time inflation tracker
- Publishing monthly data dashboards and infographics accessible to the public
- Hosting an Annual Statistics Forum with stakeholders to foster dialogue and accountability
The road ahead
A reformed, modern, and independent BBS is not just a bureaucratic upgrade—it is a national necessity. Without trustworthy statistics, planning is guesswork, policymaking is reactive, and public trust erodes. With the right investment in technology, legal safeguards, and institutional collaboration, Bangladesh can transform the BBS into a regional model for excellence.
The numbers don't lie—but only if we let them speak the truth.
The author is the founder and former chairperson of Business Initiative Leading Development (BUILD)
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard
