PM marks semiconductor industry as next growth engine after RMG
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has declared the semiconductor industry as Bangladesh’s next major economic growth engine after readymade garments, announcing a series of strategic policy supports to harness its full potential.
Addressing the inauguration of the National Semiconductor Symposium and BEAR (Bangladesh Electronics, AI and Robotics) Summit 2026 at the Novo Theatre in the capital on Saturday, the Prime Minister emphasized that the government has already begun implementing comprehensive plans to build a business-friendly environment and a technology-driven nation.
Highlighting semiconductor chips as the fundamental backbone of modern civilization essential for artificial intelligence, robotics, data centers, renewable energy, and medical equipment the Premier noted that the global semiconductor market is expected to reach nearly US$ 1 trillion by 2026.
Highlighting the enormous potential of the global semiconductor market, the prime minister said: “The global semiconductor market is expected to reach nearly one trillion US dollars by 2026.
Bangladesh has immense opportunities in this vast market, and I believe the country will be able to achieve its targeted export earnings from this sector by 2030.”
Terming the semiconductor sector a national priority, the Prime Minister stressed that its realization requires a collective national effort involving the government, academia, industrialists, and expatriate experts rather than any single ministry.
To actively spur growth, the government has introduced major policy incentives, including a complete withdrawal of all taxes and duties on required raw materials in the current budget, alongside plans for cash incentives on export earnings from semiconductor design services.
Furthermore, an annual grant of Tk 5 crore has been allocated for young innovators, while work is underway to offer tax-free bonded facilities, modernize high-tech parks, and establish a new biotech park to attract foreign and domestic investments.
Despite challenges such as a shortage of skilled manpower, the Prime Minister voiced optimism and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to standing by local talents and entrepreneurs.
Following the ceremony, he toured exhibition stalls featuring innovations in semiconductors, AI, and robotics presented by students and startups.
The two-day summit, themed “Building Bangladesh’s Semiconductor Future through Global Partnerships,” is jointly organized by the Bangladesh Semiconductor Industry Association, the Ministry of Science and Technology, and the Silicon River Bangladesh program.
Minister for Posts and Telecommunications, ICT Division and Science and Technology Faqir Mahbub Anam and Prime Minister’s Adviser on Science and Technology Rehan Asif Asad addressed the inaugural session.
