Dhaka: Businesses in Bangladesh remain optimistic about achieving growth in international trade over the next two years, according to HSBC's Global Trade Pulse survey. HSBC, one of the largest banking and financial services institutions in the world, conducted the survey and found that Bangladeshi companies are adapting to the new normal, with 50% of Bangladeshi businesses expressing strong confidence in their ability to grow international trade, compared to 41% globally.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the survey highlights a generally positive outlook among Bangladeshi businesses regarding impact and revenue amidst trade and tariff uncertainties, aligning broadly with global averages. Despite facing some cost pressures, these businesses are actively diversifying their strategies to manage trade disruptions. In Bangladesh, 48% of corporations are diversifying suppliers, 48% are regionalizing, and 46% are buffering inventory, all of which surpass the global averages.
Industry-specific data from the survey indicates that 45% of Bangladeshi businesses in the Transport and Industrials sector are increasing sales in Germany, a figure that is significantly higher than both the Bangladeshi average of 38% and the global average of 18%. In the TMT sector, 41% of Bangladeshi businesses are increasing sales in the UK, which is again above both the national and global averages. Furthermore, 40% of B2C Bangladeshi businesses are increasing sales in France.
Additionally, businesses are seeking new trade corridors to build resilience against instability. Globally, Europe and Southeast Asia are the top destinations for expansion, followed by North America and East/North Asia. South Asian businesses, including those in Bangladesh, are leading in prioritizing Europe for expansion. Conversely, North America is where companies plan to reduce reliance the most.
The survey, which collected insights from 6,750 decision-makers across 17 markets, including 250 responses from Bangladesh, reveals that international businesses are adapting to the evolving global trade landscape by deploying diverse strategies. The survey was conducted between October 6 and 21, 2025, capturing sentiment on trade and tariffs among international corporates.
After a challenging first half of 2025, businesses globally are finding their footing with more clarity on the trade and tariff landscape. A majority of businesses now feel more certain about the impact of trade policy on their operations compared to six months ago, and many report an improved understanding of recent trade policy changes.
Preparedness for trade regulations has emerged as a key driver of business adaptability. In Bangladesh, 88% of businesses report being informed and either well-prepared or actively preparing for changing trade regulations, slightly above the global average.
Vivek Ramachandran, Head of Global Trade Solutions at HSBC, noted that despite global negotiations and shifting tariffs, businesses appear to be settling into a steady state of constant adaptation. Md Mahbub ur Rahman, Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Bangladesh, commented that Bangladeshi businesses are quickly adapting to global shifts, demonstrating resilience and optimism. He emphasized the strength of HSBC's global network in connecting Bangladeshi businesses with new opportunities around the world.