1. AmCham has played a significant role in promoting trade and investment between Bangladesh and the United States. In your view, what are the most promising areas for future collaboration, especially in light of Bangladesh’s transition from LDC status?

Bangladesh’s transition from LDC status will be challenging but also filled with opportunities to boost trade with the U.S. While there is a loss of preferential trade benefits, we can realign our policy to ensure our continued market access. Diversifying our market beyond RMG will offer excellent potential for these new markets, such as IT, Pharmaceuticals, Energy, and, quite possibly, agriculture.

American companies can help with investment in infrastructure, particularly in logistics and digital infrastructure. Vocational training and improved education systems will provide the skilled labor in short supply. It is also necessary to enhance intellectual property rights (IPR) protections to help bring in foreign investment, especially in areas that are innovative. As we graduate from being a Least Developed Country (LDC) and forfeit special access to Trade-Related Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), a much more rigid IPR policy will help share technology and high-value products. This will make Bangladesh more business-friendly. Moreover, since Bangladesh is exposed to climate change, opportunities exist to collaborate on sustainable practices and green technologies to sustain long-term and sustainable growth.

Furthermore, AmCham has been crucial in strengthening Bangladesh-US trade relations, and its role will be essential as Bangladesh transitions from LDC status.

2. In recent years, global trade has seen increased volatility — from supply chain disruptions to shifting U.S. policies. How do you assess the current dynamics of U.S.–Bangladesh trade relations, and where do you see the biggest opportunities for alignment?

Shifting U.S. policies, supply chain disruptions, and current global trade volatility shape our trade relationship with the U.S. Although these might seem challenging, the U.S. is still our major export destination. Apparel, textiles, and footwear remain the bulk of our exports.

On the other hand, Bangladesh’s main imports from the U.S. are soybeans, cotton, machinery, and iron products. Bilateral trade between Bangladesh and the U.S. reached close to $13 billion in the last fiscal year, with Bangladesh exporting around $10.6 billion and importing around $2.2 billion.

Addressing the trade imbalance through initiatives such as duty-free access for U.S.-based cotton products and preferential tariffs on U.S.-made cotton goods presents a significant opportunity. These efforts can enhance the competitiveness of Bangladesh’s textile sector and help mitigate the trade deficit.

Along with strengthening trade ties, we have great technological collaboration and sustainability opportunities. Our growing interest in digitizing the country is in accord with the U.S. expertise in technology. They can support us by helping with the transformation and our sustainable efforts to control pollution and climate risks, and by developing clean and renewable energy sources.

The Trade and Investment Cooperation Forum Agreement, or TICFA, has been providing solid reviews in addressing our two countries’ trade imbalances. We can cooperate further in innovation, sustainable growth, and expanding trade, particularly in cotton.

3. The private sector is evolving rapidly in Bangladesh, with growth in sectors like tech, logistics, healthcare, and green energy. What role can American investors and companies play in accelerating this transformation?

Growth in the private sector can be achieved by foreign investors. Investing in fintech, digital infrastructure, and technology transfer is a great way to support our tech ecosystem by U.S. firms. This will significantly boost our economic development and digital transformation.

American flagship companies like FedEx, UPS, and Expeditors can introduce their advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiencies in logistics companies. U.S. investment in infrastructure, technology, and medical equipment in healthcare will mitigate the growing demand for quality service, particularly in remote and rural areas. Our transition to renewable energy can be supported by U.S. companies and by getting investment in solar and wind projects. Sustainable growth can be supported as we transition from green to carbon energy.

In addition to these, the U.S. can also offer technical support in emerging fields. AI is the most promising right now. It can be integrated into everything from agriculture to traffic control in the busy streets of Dhaka. Moreover, U.S. development assistance in areas such as food security and climate change can indirectly foster economic development and technology transfer. Also, as mentioned earlier, strengthening IPR protections will encourage foreign investment, particularly in innovative-driven sectors.

4. With the upcoming national elections and changing global investment climates, many stakeholders are watching Bangladesh closely. What key factors do you believe will shape investor confidence in the near future?

Bangladesh will continue to emphasize investment generation and an improved business atmosphere, irrespective of which government comes to power after the national elections. Political stability, policy continuity, and an investment-friendly environment will be of principal importance in shaping investor confidence. Policies made in the past without considering industry needs have affected efficiency. Therefore, concerted efforts should be made to form regulations in tune with business needs to foster an accommodating environment.

Bangladesh must streamline bureaucratic processes and long-term policies to build a more competitive and investment-friendly environment. Key reforms include rationalizing HS codes, modernizing VAT collection, and implementing a fully automated customs clearance process. Trade facilitation tools like the National Single Window (NSW), advanced cargo scanning, and improved logistics and transport infrastructure will also enhance operational efficiency and transparency.

Ensuring long-term energy security and advancing sustainability through renewable energy and green technologies are crucial for a future-ready economy. Equally important is strengthening social security systems, improving labor conditions, and establishing the rule of law to foster a stable, inclusive business environment. Enhancing intellectual property rights—particularly for technology-driven sectors—along with safeguarding labor rights and modernizing workplace standards, will further build investor trust. As Bangladesh moves toward LDC graduation, these reforms will be essential in attracting quality foreign investment and encouraging innovation aligned with global benchmarks.

5. AmCham has long advocated for policy reform, transparency, and ease of doing business. What reforms would you most like to see prioritized in the coming years — and how can chambers like yours constructively support that process?

AmCham, along with other chambers, can be influential in the policy reform process as intermediaries between the private sector and the government, offering feedback on regulatory issues, advocating reforms where necessary, and entering into constructive dialogues. Through research, forums, and best practices showcase, AmCham may contribute to ensuring that reforms meet the national development goals and business requirements.

Reforms should establish simple processes for regulating business registration and access to permits and licenses, allowing for the lowest bureaucratic impediments. Policy consistency and predictability, especially in matters of taxes, import/export rules, and foreign investment incentives, will help build confidence in the marketplace.

Investing in infrastructure, especially transport, logistical facilities, and digital connectivity, is imperative to facilitate and support efficient supply chains and technological advancements. Labor reforms, including revising labor legislation to conform to international standards and encouraging skills development, would support both business and labor.

In consultation with AmCham and other chambers throughout the policy formulation process, policies can be rendered much more effective and relevant to the reality of the private sector’s needs, thereby allowing for sustainable economic growth.

6. Beyond trade, U.S.–Bangladesh ties increasingly involve areas like education, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. How is AmCham helping strengthen these softer, yet equally vital, dimensions of bilateral cooperation?

AmCham has always been involved with activities even outside trade in Bangladesh, which has introduced numerous practices in Bangladesh. One of the most notable is the culture of Trade Shows. Our flagship U.S. Trade Show, hosted in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy for over thirty years, features showcasing American products and services, alongside seminars covering important topics such as U.S. visa processes, higher education opportunities, and development partners’ activities in Bangladesh.

We also have many affiliate members, relatively new entrepreneurs full of promise. AmCham provides them not only a platform for networking with U.S. investors and industry leaders but also opens avenues for learning and business growth. Additionally, we organize seminars to promote women entrepreneurship, helping accelerate their progress in business.

In sustainability, we prioritize sustainable economic growth by advocating for U.S. investments in green technologies and sustainable practices. Our roundtable discussions on the FDI ecosystem help promote policies that align with Bangladesh’s development goals, encouraging investment in environmentally friendly initiatives.

Through these efforts, AmCham helps build bridges between Bangladesh’s entrepreneurs, investors, and sustainability and educational opportunities, fostering long-term bilateral cooperation.

7. While the U.S. is known as the largest investor in Bangladesh, most of the investment appears to be in the energy sector. Why isn’t there more focus on other industries?

It’s true that the U.S. is the single largest investor in Bangladesh, but it’s a misconception that its investments are limited to the energy sector. In fact, U.S. companies have made significant contributions across a wide range of industries, such as food and beverage, hospitality, insurance, logistics, backward linkage in garments, digital finance, healthcare, and technology.

Moreover, when evaluating foreign direct investment (FDI), we shouldn’t only focus on the monetary value. Knowledge transfer, capacity building, and introducing advanced technologies are equally important components of FDI. In these areas, U.S. investments have had a transformative impact on several key sectors of Bangladesh’s economy.

8. What cultural and educational shifts are needed to better support the growth of startups in Bangladesh, and how can we build a more enabling ecosystem for young entrepreneurs and freelancers to thrive?

Startups are vital for economic development, primarily when driven by young, energetic entrepreneurs. I believe these individuals should be encouraged to invest their own efforts and resources. However, in Bangladesh, the startup ecosystem faces major challenges—most notably, the absence of a strong investment culture. Large investors are often reluctant to support early-stage ventures, preferring to create their own businesses in similar domains rather than becoming stakeholders in promising startups. This mindset severely limits innovation and collaboration.

While some startups like ShopUp have succeeded, others fail due to a lack of mentorship and ecosystem support. A thriving startup environment requires more than funding—it needs strategic guidance, networks, and leadership from experienced professionals, which are often missing here.

A deeper issue lies in the disconnect between academia and industry. Many business graduates lack real-world understanding because academic curricula remain outdated and overly theoretical. Our education system hasn’t kept pace despite the global rise of digital marketing and tech-based innovation. Practical, internship-based learning—like the 6–7 month internships seen in countries like Japan—is rare. Moreover, university research has become largely traditional and course-based, sidelining applied innovation. We can’t expect breakthrough ideas without a modern, practical, and research-oriented curriculum.

However, there are signs of what’s possible. Some companies use garment waste to produce high-quality cotton, while innovations like the Folio Bottle show the potential of low-cost R&D solutions. Yet universities rarely support such efforts, and private university students often graduate into a job market that offers little scope for innovation or entrepreneurship.

The media also fails to play a supportive role. Political talk shows dominate television, while business, innovation, and entrepreneurship receive minimal attention. A lack of dedicated platforms—like business magazines or shows—means missed opportunities to inspire and inform the next generation.

Government agencies also work in silos, with limited coordination among the ministries of education, commerce, and industry. This fragmentation hinders progress. In agriculture, for example, innovation in tools, packaging, and preservation could transform productivity, but farmers lack access to that knowledge.

The Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) could do more by establishing dedicated training and research wings, offering market insights, and connecting exporters to global opportunities through embassies. Currently, their impact is limited.

We also lack a structured tech ecosystem, centralized payment gateway, and affordable access to equipment. Initiatives like the 1982 student loan program were never sustained, and red tape remains a major hurdle. Starting a business requires navigating a complex web of approvals with little coordination among regulatory bodies.

Despite these barriers, individuals like Ashik Chowdhury of BIDA and BEZA are making sincere efforts. However, promotional efforts alone aren’t enough without strong facilitation.

To truly unlock Bangladesh’s entrepreneurial potential, we need a coordinated, long-term approach that bridges government, academia, industry, and media. Only then can we build a robust startup ecosystem that empowers innovation and drives inclusive growth.

9. On a lighter note — leading a chamber and engaging with such a wide range of industries must be intense. What’s one habit, routine, or hobby that helps you decompress and keep perspective?

I prioritize time management and value teamwork. I foster a collaborative environment that enhances productivity by delegating effectively and empowering colleagues. Once I commit to a task, I immerse myself fully, ensuring thorough execution and successful outcomes.

Outside work, I’m passionate about reading business and economic literature, traveling, and engaging in social initiatives—all of which broaden my perspective. While I used to study extensively, I now mostly consume audio content and regularly follow BBC, Al Jazeera, CNN, and business programs. Staying informed has become a personal hobby.

Social work is a core part of my life. I’m actively involved with Rotary and a member of the global Community Economic Development group, where we exchange ideas and implement them locally. Through Rotary, I’ve participated in numerous initiatives—building schools, launching a “medicine bag” program at Dhaka Shishu Hospital, donating medical equipment, and setting up a physiotherapy center for female garment workers in Mirpur.

One memorable collaboration was with Ilias Kanchan’s Nirapad Sharak Chai, where we trained individuals to become professional drivers. But the project closest to my heart was with the NGO FAVH, supported by ActionAid. We rehabilitated around 400 visually impaired individuals across Faridpur, providing mobility, Braille, and vocational training. In a life-changing discovery, 10–15% of them could regain vision. We brought them to Dhaka for treatment, and many were able to see again. That remains the most fulfilling experience of my life.

10. What is your broader vision for AmCham Bangladesh over the next decade? What kind of legacy would you like your leadership to contribute — both to the chamber and to U.S.–Bangladesh economic relations at large?

Bangladesh holds immense promise as a business destination, and at AmCham, our mission is to build a sustainable ecosystem that allows the country to realize this potential. For over five decades, the United States has stood as a key development partner—supporting Bangladesh in sectors such as agriculture, education, healthcare, and technological advancement. AmCham plays a vital role in strengthening commercial ties by fostering dialogue, encouraging the exchange of knowledge, and introducing global best practices to local contexts.

Looking ahead, I’m confident that AmCham’s emerging leadership—young, agile, and digitally fluent—will drive its mission forward with fresh perspectives and greater adaptability. As I shift my focus toward building a legacy, I am deeply committed to shaping responsible, future-ready leaders. Mentorship has become one of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey—guiding young professionals, supporting their growth, and helping them discover opportunities at home and abroad. I take great pride in empowering others, and I find genuine joy in building meaningful connections and engaging in thoughtful, purpose-driven conversations.