TDS Desk:

Barriers at customs and a threatening energy crisis were identified as the biggest hurdles to smooth transition for the country’s largest export sector, readymade garments, as Bangladesh primes for graduation from least developed country (LDC) status in November 2026.

The findings were revealed in the newly-launched fourth issue of the Economic Intelligence Bangladesh (EIB), a product of in collaboration with DataSense, with a focus on RMG.

The latest issue titled “RMG: Racing Against Odds” includes an in-depth survey that explores current challenges and those beyond the country’s graduation from the least developed country (LDC) status expected in November 2026.

Carried out in June 2024, the survey brings together the perspective of 20 leading RMG Enterprises collectively employing around 250,000 workers, about half of which are female.

Additionally, the issue reviews policy supports and incentives offered by successive governments that propelled the growth of the industry since its inception.

According to case studies conducted by our reporters, ESG compliance and automation are being adopted at increasing rates in the local industry, often with demotivating feedback.

This issue incorporates insights from research firm DataSense showing how the LDC graduation may impact the RMG sector beyond 2026, where Bangladesh needs to look at factors like price negotiation capability, lead time management, and shipment failure.