Written by The Banking Post
The AI Business Summit 2026 begins in Dhaka today (Thursday), bringing together policymakers, technology companies, entrepreneurs, academics and innovators to explore the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future economy.
President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir is scheduled to inaugurate the daylong event at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.
The summit is being jointly organised by the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI).
Speaking at a press conference at the Ministry of Science and Technology on Wednesday, Science and Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam outlined the preparations and objectives of the event.
He said the global economy was undergoing significant changes driven by artificial intelligence amid the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Against this backdrop, the summit has adopted the theme, “AI-Enabled Economy of Tomorrow”.
The minister said the main objective was to create new opportunities for the future economy by bringing together people, businesses and AI.
According to the organisers, the summit will feature three thematic sessions. The first session, scheduled for noon, will focus on advances in AI technology, policy frameworks, skills development and infrastructure challenges, with policymakers and experts taking part.
A second session, also scheduled for noon at the Hall of Fame, will discuss ways to strengthen partnerships between academic institutions and industry, as well as strategies for technology transfer.
The third session, beginning at 3:00pm, will explore the role of AI agents as “digital co-workers” and their potential applications in addressing local challenges.
The event will feature 142 exhibition stalls showcasing innovations from local and international technology companies, innovators and startups. More than 150 startups and technology firms will present their ideas and projects.
Separate stalls will also display AI-based projects and prototypes developed by students from 19 universities and one college. Among the international exhibitors, one company from the United States and four from Pakistan are expected to participate.
The organisers expect around 6,000 visitors and 2,000 invited guests at the summit. The Ministry of Science and Technology and DCCI will jointly bring 200 special guests to the event.
Around 27 speakers and panellists, including local and international policymakers, industry experts, academics, researchers, corporate leaders and representatives of development partner organisations, are also expected to attend.
