Dhaka:Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has announced that the government of Bangladesh intends to establish creative industries as a core component of the country's mainstream economy and a significant source of soft power on the global stage.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the finance minister emphasized the need to integrate arts and culture, rural handicrafts, music, films, and theatre into mainstream economic activities. These sectors are envisioned to become key drivers of Bangladesh's future GDP growth, thereby enhancing the nation's international influence.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony of the book "Creative Footprints," organized by Standard Chartered Bank and Bengal Foundation, Chowdhury highlighted the government's departure from traditional economic strategies that sidelined arts and culture. The current administration is committed to incorporating the creative economy into its broader economic objectives, as confirmed by a Finance Ministry press release.
Chowdhury noted that successful development of the creative sector requires collaboration with private sector entities and NGOs, alongside the establishment of supportive policies and financing. The government has already allocated funds in the national budget, and private-sector interest in investing in the sector is growing.
The government plans to offer financial aid to local artisans, painters, and cultural workers, while also supporting skills development and marketing through platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Alibaba. These initiatives aim to provide fair compensation for artists' work, improve their living standards, create jobs, and boost foreign exchange earnings.
Chowdhury underscored the broader international significance of Bangladesh's cultural heritage, positioning creative industries as more than just economic activities, but as vital components of the nation's soft power. He expressed gratitude to Standard Chartered Bank and Bengal Foundation for their initiative and optimism that joint efforts could lead to a cultural and economic transformation in Bangladesh.
The event was attended by British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke, Bengal Foundation Chairman Abul Khair Litu, and Standard Chartered Bank CEO Enamul Haque.