Bangladesh has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to establish itself in the global semiconductor value chain, targeting skills development, business environment reforms, and international partnerships as key areas of focus.

The national semiconductor task force presented the plan at a press conference on Thursday, outlining practical steps to position Bangladesh in design services, chip testing, and packaging areas requiring comparatively lower investment than chip fabrication.

Ashik Chowdhury, executive chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority, said the roadmap proposes training initiatives, virtual certification platforms, and the creation of high-tech labs to nurture a skilled workforce. The aim is to build local capabilities in chip design and testing, where the country already has a presence through professionals engaged with Silicon Valley firms.

Chowdhury noted that the roadmap also recommends fiscal incentives, simplified customs procedures, and the establishment of dedicated semiconductor zones in high-tech parks to attract investors and startups. “Bangladesh’s strength lies in its young, tech-savvy workforce and growing pool of science and engineering graduates,” he said.

On the global stage, Bangladesh plans to pursue joint ventures and partnerships and leverage its diaspora to access talent, technology, and markets. Malaysia, facing a shortage of chip designers, was cited as a potential partner and market for Bangladeshi expertise.

The roadmap acknowledges that Bangladesh is not yet ready for capital-intensive semiconductor fabrication plants but sees significant short—and medium-term opportunities in design, testing, and packaging services.

In the medium term, it proposes expanding advanced technical training, fostering international research collaborations, and exploring fabrication through partnerships.

Chowdhury said clear timelines have been laid out to hold stakeholders accountable, adding that the Chief Adviser’s Office now holds the responsibility for moving the agenda forward.

The task force believes that with systematic execution and political stability, the sector could attract investments worth hundreds of millions—potentially billions—of dollars, creating new economic growth opportunities.

“If implemented properly, this roadmap could transform Bangladesh from a marginal player to a serious contender in the global semiconductor industry,” Chowdhury said.