---

Experts have urged Bangladesh to adopt circular economy models and innovative solutions to boost industrial productivity and drive long-term economic growth.

The call came at a seminar titled “Policy Dialogue on Circular Economy and SDG for Industry and Export Growth”, jointly organised by the FBCCI Innovation and Research Centre (FBCCI-IRC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Dhaka on Wednesday.

Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, addressing the event as chief guest, said, “Circular economy is vital for gearing up the economy and industrial productivity in the country.” He called on all stakeholders to collaborate in leveraging circular economy practices for export growth.

In his keynote, Dr M Masrur Reaz, chairman and CEO of Policy Exchange Bangladesh, stressed that adopting progressive, research-driven policies would ensure sustainable competitiveness.

UNDP Bangladesh’s assistant resident representative, Sardar M Asaduzzaman, said UNDP and FBCCI-IRC had been working to bring structural changes in waste management, expand circular business models, and promote sustainability.

FBCCI-IRC Chairman Md Jashim Uddin also emphasised the need for expanding research on the circular economy, noting its long-term importance for Bangladesh’s industrial and export sectors.

At the event, the Coca-Cola Foundation awarded Tk 5 million to 10 start-ups for implementing environment-friendly innovations, each receiving Tk 0.5 million. Adviser Khan praised the initiative, saying such support would encourage entrepreneurship and green innovation.

The dialogue underscored the growing alignment of government, private sector, and international organisations in pushing for sustainable, circular practices to strengthen Bangladesh’s economy and ensure resilience in global trade.