The Export Competitiveness for Jobs (EC4J) Project of the Ministry of Commerce organized a seminar titled “Impact of the EC4J Project on Export Diversification in Bangladesh” on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the Multifunctional Convention Hall, Bangladesh–China Friendship Exhibition Center (BCFEC), Purbachal, as part of the 30th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF).
The seminar focused on the role of the EC4J Project in enhancing Bangladesh’s export competitiveness and promoting export diversification through policy reforms, private sector engagement, innovation, and investment facilitation. Discussions highlighted how the project contributes to job creation, value chain development, and sustainable economic growth.
The seminar was graced by Mr. Sk. Bashir Uddin, Honorable Adviser to the Ministry of Commerce, as the Chief Guest, while Mr. Mahbubur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, attended as the Special Guest.
The event was chaired by Mr. Mohammad Hasan Arif, Chairman and Chief Executive (Additional Secretary) of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). The VC and Chief Executive of EPB emphasized that education and skills are critical ingredients for industries involved in export diversification.
Mr. Md. Abdur Rahim Khan, Additional Secretary (Export) and Project Director of the EC4J Project, delivered the welcome address and moderated the session. Mr. Bijon Islam, CEO of LightCastle Partners, presented the keynote paper.
Discussants included Dr. M. Masrur Reaz, Chairman of Policy Exchange Bangladesh; Prof. Dr. Abdur Razzak, Chairman of RAPID; and Ms. Hosna Ferdous Sumi, Senior Private Sector Specialist in Finance, Competitiveness, and Innovation (FCI) at the World Bank. They shared valuable insights on private sector development and competitiveness for export diversification.
The seminar brought together senior government officials, development partners, policymakers, private sector representatives, and exporters. The event reaffirmed the commitment of the Government and EPB to strengthening export diversification and building a more competitive, resilient, and inclusive export sector for Bangladesh.
Date: 22 January 2026
Venue: Bangladesh–China Friendship Exhibition Centre (Big wave), Purbachal, Narayanganj, Dhaka
