Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday underscored the potential of the semiconductor industry to drive Bangladesh's economic growth, following the success of the ready-made garment sector. Speaking at the inauguration of the National Semiconductor Symposium and BEAR Conference 2026 in Tejgaon, Rahman announced strategic plans to position Bangladesh as a significant player in the global high-tech value chain.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for collaboration among government bodies, universities, industry stakeholders, and Bangladeshi professionals abroad to build a robust semiconductor sector. The government has already initiated plans to create a favorable ecosystem for semiconductors, including investment incentives and tax reforms. Notably, all taxes on raw materials for semiconductor manufacturing have been removed in the current budget, along with proposals for cash incentives on export earnings from semiconductor design services.
Highlighting the government's commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship, Rahman revealed an allocation of Tk 500 crore for startup grants to support new ventures in technology. Plans are also underway to establish a biotechnology park and upgrade existing high-tech parks to strengthen the country's deep-tech ecosystem.
Addressing the audience, which included policymakers and global semiconductor leaders, the Prime Minister outlined Bangladesh's vision for a technology-driven and self-reliant nation. He stressed that semiconductors are foundational to modern civilization, used in diverse fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced manufacturing.
Rahman cited global forecasts predicting the semiconductor market to reach nearly US$1 trillion by 2030, presenting significant opportunities for Bangladesh. He expressed confidence in achieving the country's semiconductor export target by 2030 through coordinated efforts across sectors.
Emphasizing Bangladesh's growing talent pool, Rahman noted the presence of over 3,000 Bangladeshi semiconductor professionals working internationally, calling for their deeper involvement in the country's technological transformation. He also acknowledged the progress in semiconductor design and advanced packaging, with several domestic companies entering the international market.
The government, Rahman asserted, is committed to fostering an investor-friendly environment with policy support and infrastructure for semiconductor companies. He commended industry stakeholders for organizing international roadshows to attract global investors and highlighted Bangladesh's ability to overcome challenges in various sectors through youth talent and innovation.
Rahman assured continued government support to transform aspirations into reality and expressed hope that the symposium would lead to new partnerships and investment opportunities in technology. The event, organized by the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Bangladesh Semiconductor Industry Association, and Silicon River Bangladesh, features technical and strategic sessions on semiconductor industry development and innovation.
Prominent figures such as Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam, ICT Adviser Rehan Asif Asad, and representatives from leading global technology companies are participating in the conference. The Prime Minister also toured the BEAR Innovation Expo 2026, showcasing advancements in semiconductors and other deep-tech sectors.