Barriers at customs and a threatening energy crisis were identified as the biggest challenges to smooth the transition for the country’s largest export sector, readymade garments, as Bangladesh is on track to graduate from least developed country (LDC) status in November 2026.
The findings, with an emphasis on RMG, were published in the recently released fourth issue of Economic Intelligence Bangladesh (EIB), a publication produced by The Business Standard in association with DataSense.
The most recent issue, RMG: Racing Against Odds, features a thorough analysis that looks at both the country’s present problems and those that may arise once it is predicted to leave the least developed country (LDC) category in November 2026.
Carried out in June 2024, the survey brings together the perspective of 20 leading RMG Enterprises collectively employing around 250,000 workers, about half of which are female.
It also examines the governmental support and incentives provided by succeeding administrations, which have fuelled the industry’s expansion since its founding.
The case studies show that the local industry is adopting automation and ESG compliance at an increasing rate, frequently with discouraging comments.
Insights from research firm DataSense are incorporated into this issue, which highlights how the LDC graduation may affect the RMG sector after 2026. Bangladesh should consider variables like its ability to negotiate prices, lead times, and shipment failure.
