LDC graduation roadmap implementation should be expedited: Adviser Bashir

Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin has emphasised the urgent need to implement the trade facilitation roadmap to address the challenges associated with Bangladesh's graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status.

Speaking at the 8th meeting of the National Trade Facilitation Committee in Dhaka today (4 February), the adviser highlighted the critical role of capacity-building and underscored the necessity of enhancing efficiency and fostering a competitive mindset to navigate the post-LDC transition successfully.

The Ministry of Commerce organised the meeting with Bashir presiding.

"We are set to graduate from LDC status in November 2026. This transition will introduce new regulations affecting our exports. To mitigate the economic impact, enhancing our capacity is crucial. Competitiveness through skill development is our only viable option," the commerce adviser said.

He said Bangladesh has a timeframe until 2030 to make necessary adjustments. "I believe this is a considerable period. If we graduate in 2026, our working groups must collaborate effectively to establish clear objectives."

Lutfey Siddiqi, chief adviser's special envoy for international affairs, who attended the meeting as a distinguished guest, echoed the same sentiments, stressing the need for a structured timeline for implementation. 

"We must strengthen our capabilities while simultaneously streamlining trade operations. Coordination and cooperation are key to achieving our goals," he said.