Small enterprises can drive growth with stronger market linkages: Speakers

Business Desk :

Small enterprises contribute nearly 25 per cent to Bangladesh’s gross domestic product and provide employment to 56 per cent of the country’s workforce, speakers said at an event, emphasising that with proper planning and stronger market linkages, the sector could become a major driver of economic growth.
The observations were made at the Value Chain Expo 2025, jointly organised by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) and ESDO in Thakurgaon.
Speaking as special guest, Parimal Sarker, Joint Secretary of the Economic Relations Division, stated that many small entrepreneurs struggle to sustain their businesses due to weaknesses in product quality, marketing, and distribution. He added that a structured and planned approach could enable micro-entrepreneurs to make far greater contributions to the national economy.
As chief guest, IFAD Country Director for Bangladesh, Dr Valantine Achancho, stated that IFAD works globally to improve the lives of marginalised communities and is closely partnering with the government to support value chain development. He noted that families involved in value chain activities are improving their living standards by producing and marketing safe and diverse products.Tanvir Sultana, Deputy General Manager of PKSF, stated that the organisation is actively supporting the growth and potential of small enterprises nationwide. RMTP Project Coordinator, Md Habibur Rahman, added that products made by small entrepreneurs are now reaching international markets.
Lorna Grace, Lead Regional Technical Specialist of IFAD’s Private Sector Unit, emphasised that stronger engagement from both public and private stakeholders, along with improved private-sector linkages, would help sustain value chain activities.Chaired by Dr Md Shahid Uz Zaman, Executive Director of ESDO, the event highlighted grassroots enterprise development. He stated that ESDO provides diversified support to help small initiatives grow into larger enterprises.Under the RMTP project, the Value Chain Expo 2025 is showcasing safe and high-quality products produced by small entrepreneurs. A total of 36 stalls at the Eco-Pathshala field in Thakurgaon are displaying a wide range of locally produced goods.