A vision for tomorrow: Tarique Rahman’s roadmap to transform Bangladesh’s economy

Tarique Rahman has outlined a modern and forward-looking vision for Bangladesh in his recent interview with the Financial Times—a blueprint that, if effectively implemented by the BNP, could transform the country's economy. 

Amid growing global tariff tensions that are unsettling major export economies, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman's proposal to establish "Super Sourcing Hubs" for leading e-commerce giants appears both timely and strategic. 

The initiative aims not only to capitalise on Bangladesh's advantageous trade position—such as lower tariffs with the United States, zero tariffs with Europe, and free trade agreements with China and Canada—but also to empower Bangladeshi youth and aspiring entrepreneurs with access to global platforms like Amazon, Alibaba, Shopify, and Walmart.

Bangladesh's remarkable ascension as a powerhouse in ready-made garment manufacturing owes much to our loyal and abundant pool of workers, alongside the hard-working Bangladeshi entrepreneurs whose commitment to build world-class yet environmentally sustainable manufacturing capacity has set the nation apart.

However, with growing global competition and ever-changing geopolitical dynamics, Bangladesh's strengths are gradually being matched by its Asian peers such as Cambodia. Even India has emerged as a viable and competitive sourcing ground for global retailers, particularly in view of incremental US tariffs freeing up manufacturing capacity for Europe and other markets across the world.

Boosting district and village economies, handicrafts, and small industries

Tarique Rahman's vision of establishing e-commerce retailers' Super Sourcing Hubs could empower and provide global market access to small entrepreneurs and cottage industries located far from the industrial concentrations of major metropolitan areas such as Dhaka and Chattogram.

This would help boost regional economies, create employment, and minimise the desperate migration of fortune seekers to developed Western economies—journeys that too often result in loss of lives and economic hardship for families left behind.

Artisans and creative entrepreneurs — sky will be the limit

Artisans, creative entrepreneurs, and Facebook commerce business owners could find limitless opportunities in categories such as home, garden, and kitchen products. 

Sustainable jute rugs, terracotta planters, kitchen utensils, baby products like cotton baby clothes and wooden toys, as well as beauty and personal care items including Ayurvedic and organic cosmetics, yoga mats, and more, could all experience a nationwide manufacturing boom. 

This would also stimulate growth in supporting sectors such as logistics, delivery services, warehousing, banking, and mobile financial services (MFS).

Tarique Rahman's Lee Kuan Yew moment

Tarique Rahman and his family have endured immense difficulties and challenges over the past 18 years of self-exile. Having survived physical and mental torture during his interrogation after being arrested by the joint forces during the military-backed caretaker government back in 2007, and forcible removal from his homeland to a foreign country with no roots, his resilience remains extraordinary. 

To manage and lead a major political party like the BNP remotely demands exceptional leadership and mental tenacity, particularly while witnessing the hour-by-hour deterioration of the health of Bangladesh's democratic icon, his mother and former Prime Minister, Khaleda Zia. 

Her suffering in a century-old, unhygienic jail, and her repeated persecution by the Anti-Corruption Commission, reflect the adversity that has tested but never broken Rahman's spirit. His determination and mental fortitude have kept not only himself motivated but also inspired multiple generations of BNP members and followers.

Under Tarique Rahman's leadership, Bangladesh has the potential to become the Singapore of South Asia. Given the country's central geographical location and its young, secular population, his vision to deliver economic prosperity to every corner of Bangladesh could one day turn this aspiration into reality. 

The dream of becoming a first-world nation like Singapore may seem distant now, but knowing Tarique Rahman's relentless pursuit of well-meditated progress for his fellow citizens, such a transformation could indeed be realised within less than a decade.

Anis Ahmed is the Founder and Group CEO of MGH Group. 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.