DHAKA, May 18, 2026 (BSS) - Economists and business leaders today underscored the importance of stable and predictable policies, saying ongoing reforms and improved policy direction could significantly enhance investment, industrial expansion, and job creation in the country.

They came up with the observations at a seminar jointly organised by the Policy Research Institute (PRI) and the World Bank titled “Bangladesh Development Update: Special Focus – A Business Environment that Delivers Jobs” held at PRI’s conference room in the capital.

Delivering the keynote presentation, World Bank Senior Economist Dr Dhruv Sharma said Bangladesh possesses strong economic potential and that creating a more predictable policy environment would help unlock greater domestic and foreign investment.

He noted that the political uncertainty surrounding the national election had eased following the polls held earlier this year, which he described as a positive development for the investment climate.

Sharma said the government’s upcoming five-year strategic framework and the national budget were expected to provide clearer policy guidance and strengthen investor confidence in the coming years.

He also highlighted the need for continued reforms to address challenges related to the cost of capital, taxation, transparency, and infrastructure, including power, electricity, water, and supply chain management.

According to the World Bank findings, improving the business environment through smart deregulation, a level playing field, enhanced private sector participation, and stronger productivity among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) could accelerate employment generation and sustainable growth.

Executive Director of the Foreign Investors' Chamber of Commerce and Industry T. I. M. Nurul Kabir said Bangladesh continues to attract global investor interest due to its long-term growth prospects, expanding consumer market, and strategic economic position.

He stressed that consistent long-term policies would further strengthen confidence of investors and encourage multinational companies to expand operations in Bangladesh.

“When investors get clear policy direction for the long term, confidence increases significantly,” he added.

PRI Chairman Zaidi Sattar said Bangladesh now has an opportunity to align economic reforms with employment-focused growth strategies to ensure inclusive development.

Executive Director of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) Fahmida Khatun emphasised the importance of institutional reforms, policy continuity, and economic resilience to support private sector-led growth.

PRI Principal Economist Ashikur Rahman highlighted the role of research-driven policymaking in creating sustainable employment opportunities and improving productivity across industries.

Addressing the seminar as chief guest, Mahmud Hasan Khan, President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), said export-oriented industries, particularly the garment sector, continue to play a major role in generating employment and driving economic growth.

He expressed optimism that continued collaboration between the government, private sector, and development partners would help create a more competitive business environment and support Bangladesh’s journey toward higher economic growth and employment generation.