Bangladesh Announces Major Tech Reforms, Investment Initiatives
In a nationally televised address, Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus unveiled a series of significant reforms designed to boost foreign investment, digitize government services, and empower Bangladesh’s youth. The address, which coincided with Independence Day and Eid-ul-Fitr, highlighted the government’s vision for a technologically advanced and economically vibrant future.
The interim government, led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, is currently benefiting from unprecedented global goodwill.
Boosting Foreign Investment
Since the interim administration took office, international interest in Bangladesh has grown substantially. The Chief Advisor cited ongoing discussions with major global investors, including DP World, PSA Singapore, and AP Moller Maersk, regarding multi-billion dollar investments in port and logistics infrastructure.
“We hope to see new foreign investments in the country very soon,” stated the Chief Advisor. He also noted the growing enthusiasm from global leaders, particularly following Bangladesh’s participation in the UN General Assembly and the World Economic Forum in Davos, where Yunus himself participated in numerous engagements.
One key partnership announced involves the United Arab Emirates, which has expressed interest in developing an industrial zone in Bangladesh. This initiative would begin with halal meat and fish processing plants and potentially include the management of a new seaport.
Furthermore, the Chief Advisor disclosed plans for a four-day visit to China, including meetings with President Xi Jinping and CEOs of major Chinese companies. Discussions are underway with Longi, the world’s largest solar panel manufacturer, about establishing production facilities in Bangladesh.
Digital Transformation and Anti-Corruption Measures
A central theme of the address was the government’s commitment to combating corruption through technological advancements. “No citizen should have to physically appear at a government office for routine services,” the Chief Advisor stated, announcing the rollout of e-filing systems across all ministries. Efforts to digitize land services and streamline passport issuance are already in progress. The removal of police verification requirements has already resulted in the processing of 70,000 pending passports, with electronic passport delivery now being piloted for home deliveries.
The Chief Advisor also highlighted the benefits of online ticketing for expatriate Bangladeshis, which has reduced airfare costs by up to 75 percent. Changes to the power of attorney rules were also introduced to ease bureaucratic burdens on citizens living abroad.
Legal Reforms and Civil Liberties
Addressing past political repression, the government has moved to dismiss thousands of “harassment cases” filed under the previous administration. So far, 6,295 politically motivated cases have been recommended for withdrawal, alongside 413 cases filed under the controversial Cyber Security Act. The government plans to repeal the Act and replace it with a “citizen-friendly” version. Citizens can now file General Diaries (GDs) online, eliminating the need for visits to police stations.
The government has also solicited public input on improving access to digital public services.
Youth, Technology, and the Future
Recognizing Bangladesh’s demographic advantage, the Chief Advisor emphasized the government’s dedication to empowering the country’s large youth population through digital infrastructure and entrepreneurship. A new ‘Youth Entrepreneurship Policy 2025’ has been introduced to foster economic and environmental progress by recognizing the contributions of youth-led enterprises.
The Chief Advisor also mentioned discussions with Elon Musk, the founder of Starlink, about expanding satellite internet coverage to Bangladesh. A commercial agreement is expected within three months, which could bring high-speed internet to even the most remote areas. “If Starlink is launched, no government in the future will have any opportunity to shut down internet service and lock people’s information,” he said.
Enhancing the Hajj Experience
The address also revealed a new mobile app designed to assist Bangladeshi pilgrims during Hajj. The application will provide real-time guidance in Bengali, financial tools, a luggage tracker, daily prayer reminders, and access to medical support.
In conclusion, the Chief Advisor encouraged the public to offer suggestions for enhancing online services and called on those with resources to become service providers from anywhere in the world.
