BNP's Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Tuesday expressed concern about Bangladesh's impending LDC graduation, urging caution that farmers and the youth may be left in a vulnerable position.
"Graduation is not just a milestone – it comes with risks and challenges which we need to be honest about, directly affecting our economy and people," he wrote on a post from his verified Facebook account.
"Let us not leave our workers, farmers and youth behind in a vulnerable place. Bangladesh needs real, tangible progress and opportunities for its citizens before it is able to reap the benefits of graduating."
Bangladesh is set to graduate from the category of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in November, 2026.
"What does this mean for the resilience of our businesses, the engines of growth in our communities?" Tarique asked.
He listed several cases where Bangladesh would lose numerous preferential benefits, including an erosion of trade benefits.
He added that this would hurt the country's garments exports, which accounts for over 90% of annual export earnings, and reduce competitiveness.
He also flagged a lack of export diversification and shrinking access to concessional loans and aid as other issues.
"We must take urgent steps now to ensure our home grown businesses are not left vulnerable," he said, listing some ways out.
These include export diversification, strengthening public institutions, investing in productivity, trade logistics and modern infrastructure to stay competitive globally.
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