Written by The Banking Post
Experts and policymakers on Monday called for sweeping reforms in cross-border e-commerce and skills development, warning that Bangladesh could fall behind in the global digital economy without swift action.
The call came at the first policy dialogue of the Global Bangladeshi Alliance (GBA) in Dhaka, where the diaspora-led platform unveiled an economy-focused roadmap aimed at integrating Bangladesh into global digital trade while preparing its workforce for rapid automation.
In a joint presentation, GBA leaders cautioned that weak e-commerce frameworks and outdated skills policies could turn Bangladesh into a “digital island.” At the core of the proposal was the “Amazon Economy” blueprint, designed to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) access global markets directly through digital platforms.
The plan recommends integrating international payment gateways and global marketplaces to create a seamless “click-to-cash” system, allowing local entrepreneurs to sell directly to overseas consumers and reduce dependence on intermediaries. This, speakers said, would help diversify exports beyond traditional sectors.
A second pillar focused on aligning skills with global demand as artificial intelligence accelerates workplace automation. With up to 40 per cent of low-skilled jobs at risk over the next five years, the roadmap urges a shift from exporting labour to exporting skills. Priority areas include specialised healthcare services, such as nursing for ageing populations, alongside internationally recognised technical certifications.
Presenting the keynote, GBA co-chair Mizan Chowdhury said Bangladesh’s future growth would depend on responsible leadership, innovation and good governance working in tandem. Through engagement with international partners, he said, the alliance aims to contribute to policy thinking on trade, investment, technology, healthcare and the emerging “new economy.”
Joining virtually from Washington, GBA chief coordinator Dr Golam Rabbani Nayan stressed ethical leadership as the foundation of sustainable development, saying the group would work collectively to help shape Bangladesh’s future.
The discussion, moderated by GBA co-chair Kawser Chowdhury, featured contributions from economists and entrepreneurs who highlighted the need to align education and training with global market needs, particularly in technology-adjacent services.
As chief guest, former science and technology minister Dr Moyeen Khan said the country’s ICT foundations must be strengthened to support democratic and economic transition. Special guest Abdus Salam urged expatriate professionals to play a more active role in national rebuilding, while People N Tech Group chairman Engineer Abu Hanip pointed to the potential of Bangladesh’s universities to reduce unemployment through targeted skills upgrading.
The dialogue marked GBA’s first on-the-ground engagement in Bangladesh since its formation four months ago. Organisers said the alliance will continue policy discussions to promote digital trade integration and globally competitive skills as part of a broader effort to unlock the country’s economic potential.
