Bangladesh stands on the verge of a historic transformation — graduating from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category. The International Chamber of Commerce, Bangladesh (ICCB), in its latest editorial, praised the nation for meeting all three United Nations criteria: gross national income per capita, human assets index, and economic vulnerability index. However, it warned that sustaining economic growth post-graduation will demand serious internal restructuring.

The graduation, while a sign of progress, comes with challenges. Bangladesh’s readymade garment (RMG) sector, which contributes over 80% of its export earnings, faces a looming threat: the loss of duty-free and quota-free access to key markets such as the EU, Canada, and Australia. Once tariffs of 10–12% are imposed, the nation’s competitive edge could erode rapidly unless productivity rises and product diversification strengthens.

ICCB cautioned that with concessional loans and grants fading away, Bangladesh must pivot towards costlier commercial borrowing. With external debt surpassing $100 billion and global interest rates climbing, efficient debt management and higher foreign reserves become vital. Fiscal discipline, export diversification, and stronger economic governance will be the backbone of post-graduation stability.

Complicating matters are global trends — from protectionism and non-tariff barriers to sustainability mandates like carbon border taxes. As global buyers prioritize ethical sourcing, Bangladesh must rebrand itself as a responsible and innovative manufacturing hub. The ICCB stressed that aligning with sustainability, traceability, and labour compliance is no longer optional but essential for survival.

Furthermore, human capital development is key. Weaknesses in education, healthcare, and social safety nets could limit inclusive growth. Vocational training, women’s empowerment, and skill enhancement are imperative for creating an equitable post-LDC economy.

Yet, amid the challenges lies opportunity. Diversifying into high-value sectors such as IT, pharmaceuticals, leather, agro-processing, shipbuilding, and services could fuel long-term resilience. Bangladesh’s journey beyond garments will determine its future identity in the global market.

Conclusion:
Bangladesh’s LDC graduation marks both an achievement and a test. The privileges of the past will fade, replaced by the disciplines of a competitive global economy. To thrive, Bangladesh must innovate, reform, and diversify. Its success will depend not just on numbers but on the nation’s ability to balance growth with sustainability and inclusivity.