Dhaka:Speakers at the Bangladesh AI Business Summit 2026 have underscored the urgency of establishing a 'National AI Ecosystem' through coordinated public-private initiatives. This move aims to harness the country's domestic potential in artificial intelligence (AI) and drive innovation, investment, and economic transformation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the summit, themed 'AI-fication for Tomorrow's Economy', was the first of its kind in the country and was jointly organized by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) and the Ministry of Science and Technology at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC) in Agargaon. President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir attended the event as the chief guest, alongside other notable figures including Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam and International Chamber of Commerce Bangladesh President Mahbubur Rahman.
The summit featured three thematic panel discussions that gathered cabinet members, policymakers, business leaders, and other stakeholders. These discussions focused on assessing the country's AI sector, identifying challenges, and exploring future opportunities. DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed highlighted the transformative impact of AI on the global economy, while also addressing challenges such as inadequate technological infrastructure and a shortage of skilled professionals in Bangladesh.
Prime Minister's Adviser Mahdi Amin, speaking at one of the sessions, emphasized the importance of aligning AI technology with Bangladesh's economic realities and development needs. He called for connecting university research with industrial requirements to enhance economic productivity. Other speakers, including FLAXA President Syed Nasim Manzur and Transcom Limited Group CEO Simin Rahman, stressed the need for tax incentives and expansion of AI adoption to boost productivity.
Furthermore, the summit included an 'AI Business Expo' with over 150 AI-based stalls, providing a platform for young innovators and entrepreneurs to showcase their innovations and establish commercial partnerships. The expo aimed to create new business opportunities and contribute to the country's economic growth.