Staff Reporter :
The interim government has introduced the National Logistics Policy 2025, setting an ambitious goal of turning Bangladesh into a leading regional trade and logistics centre by 2050.
The policy outlines a comprehensive plan to upgrade the country’s logistics landscape into a modern, technology-enabled, efficient and environmentally responsible system capable of supporting both domestic and international trade.
A similar policy was approved by the former Awami League-led government in April 2024, but was scrapped after the political transition in August. The newly formulated version replaces it entirely.
The timing is significant, as Bangladesh is set to graduate from least developed country (LDC) status next year, which will end its existing duty-free and quota-free export privileges. This transition is expected to increase export costs, making enhanced logistics capacity more crucial than ever.
According to the gazette issued on 19 November, the policy is designed as a strategic instrument to prepare the economy for post-LDC realities and other emerging challenges. All logistics-related activities and sub-sectors must now align with its provisions.
The blueprint targets trade expansion, increased investment, higher efficiency across supply chains and the development of a skilled workforce. It sets out directions for improving logistics services, crafting sector-specific strategies and introducing measurable performance indicators.
Reducing time and costs across the logistics chain—spanning production, collection, storage, transport, shipping, customs clearance and distribution is a central objective.
The policy also envisions a seamless national logistics ecosystem through integrated services and a unified operational framework. Development of multimodal infrastructure and better utilisation of existing facilities will receive priority.
Digital transformation features prominently, with plans for modern tracking, tracing and advanced logistics management systems. The policy also calls for harmonising trade-, customs- and investment-related laws and regulations to eliminate bottlenecks and create an investor-friendly environment.
By raising efficiency and attracting both domestic and foreign investment, the government hopes to boost Bangladesh’s standing in global logistics indices and establish the country as a regional logistics powerhouse.
Commenting on the development, Masrur Reaz, chairman of Policy Exchange of Bangladesh, welcomed the activation of the 2025 logistics policy.
“This policy is crucial for addressing existing gaps in the sector and preparing Bangladesh for the competitiveness challenges that will arise after LDC graduation,” he said.
He emphasised the need to prioritise port expansion, improved multimodal transport systems, enhanced storage facilities and strengthened logistics and shipping services. “In that sense, the new policy sends a positive message to global trade and investment partners,” he added.
However, Reaz warned that implementing policies has historically been a weak point for Bangladesh.
“Issuing the policy is just the beginning. The government must ensure clear implementation mechanisms, defined timelines, strong coordination among agencies and effective monitoring if the policy is to generate real economic benefits,” he said.
