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Wrong Diagnosis: A silent crisis in Bangladesh’s healthcare system
On the morning of 2 February (2025), AHM Nurul Alam Hasan, a businessman from Chattogram, was having breakfast with his family when he began to speak strangely. He misnamed familiar people, shared incorrect information and asked irrelevant questions.
Initially, his family did not realise the gravity of the situation, dismissing it as momentary confusion. As his odd behaviour persisted and he complained of a headache, they rushed him to a renowned private hospital in Chattogram.
After preliminary tests, doctors at the hospital wrongly diagnosed him with an early-stage brain tumour. He spent one night under medical supervision and was discharged the following morning.
Unconvinced by the diagnosis, his family convened a meeting on 4 February, deciding to take him to Dhaka for further investigations. The decision-making process took two days, and by the time Mr Hasan reached the capital on 5 February, four days elapsed before the correct diagnosis was made—he had suffered a brain stroke.
The delay in identifying and treating the stroke has left the 74-year-old businessman struggling to regain his memory.
A specialist physician, speaking anonymously to UNB, emphasised the dire consequences of such delays. “A four-day delay in stroke treatment can lead to severe complications and drastically reduce the chances of recovery,” the doctor said.
The Perils of Delayed Stroke Treatment
When a stroke occurs, every second counts, he says, adding that the critical importance of swift intervention to prevent irreversible damage. Here are the primary risks associated with delayed stroke treatment as he said:
1. Increased Brain Damage
o Strokes occur due to blocked blood flow (ischemic stroke) or bleeding in the brain (haemorrhagic stroke).
o Within minutes, brain cells start dying due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients.
o A delay of four days allows irreversible damage to spread, affecting a larger portion of the brain.
2. Higher Risk of Permanent Disability
o Delayed treatment can result in long-term impairments, including:
§ Speech and communication difficulties (Aphasia)
§ Paralysis or muscle weakness
§ Cognitive decline, including memory loss and confusion
§ Vision and balance disorders
3. Reduced Effectiveness of Clot-Busting Treatment
o Ischaemic stroke patients require thrombolytic drugs like tPA within 4.5 hours of symptom onset.
o After four days, these drugs become ineffective, making recovery more difficult.
4. Increased Risk of Secondary Stroke
o Without immediate treatment, patients face a higher likelihood of suffering another stroke, compounding health complications.
5. Swelling and Brain Pressure
o Delayed care can cause brain swelling, increasing intracranial pressure and worsening brain function.
o In severe cases, this can lead to brain herniation, which is often fatal.
6. Other Medical Complications
o Pneumonia: Stroke patients often have difficulty swallowing, increasing the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
o Bedsores & Blood Clots: Prolonged immobility can lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and skin ulcers.
o Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Common among stroke patients due to bladder dysfunction.
7. Mental Health Consequences
o Patients and families face increased risk of depression, anxiety, and emotional distress due to delayed recovery.
8. Higher Mortality Rates
o The longer the delay in treatment, the lower the patient’s chance of survival.
Medical Negligence in Bangladesh
Medical negligence is a growing concern in Bangladesh, with frequent reports of misdiagnoses, surgical errors, and inadequate treatment. While many countries have robust legal frameworks to address such issues, Bangladesh lacks comprehensive legislation to combat medical malpractice.
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Consequently, most incidents go unpunished, leading to public frustration and, at times, violent reactions against healthcare professionals.
Medical negligence generally falls into several categories:
1. Misdiagnosis
2. Delayed Diagnosis
3. Surgical Errors
4. Childbirth Trauma and Malpractice
5. Negligent Long-term Treatment
For a case of medical negligence to be established, four elements must be proven:
· Duty: The healthcare provider owed a duty to the patient.
· Negligence: The provider failed to take reasonable care.
· Damage: The patient suffered an injury due to the negligence.
· Causation: The injury was directly caused by the healthcare provider’s actions.
Legal Safeguards and Challenges
Bangladesh’s Constitution protects the right to life (Article 32) and mandates the State to ensure access to healthcare (Articles 15, 18). However, the enforcement of these rights remains weak. Patients can seek redress through Article 102 (Writ Petitions), but the lack of a dedicated medical negligence law leaves many without justice.
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While doctors work under challenging conditions in an overburdened healthcare system, the lack of accountability erodes public trust. Misdiagnoses, delays, and inadequate treatment force thousands of Bangladeshis to seek medical care abroad, draining billions from the national economy each year.
Unlicensed Hospitals
The private sector provides 60% of Bangladesh’s healthcare services, with over 100,000 hospital beds. However, regulation remains inadequate. In February 2024, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) found 1,027 unlicensed hospitals operating across the country. Such institutions often lack qualified professionals, contributing to cases of medical negligence.
Exodus of Patients: Trust Deficit in Local Healthcare
Bangladesh’s healthcare shortcomings have led to an exodus of patients seeking treatment abroad. In 2023, over 4.5 lakh Bangladeshis travelled to India, Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia for medical care. The reasons include:
· Advanced medical facilities
· Specialised expertise
· Higher perceived quality of care
· Limited access to specialised treatment in Bangladesh
This trend has severe economic implications, with billions of dollars flowing out of the country. Strengthening local healthcare could retain patients and boost the economy.
Reforming Bangladesh’s Healthcare System
Experts said that to prevent cases like that of AHM Nurul Alam Hasan, Bangladesh must do the following things:
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1. Invest in Healthcare Infrastructure – Increase funding for public hospitals and ensure they have modern medical technology.
2. Improve Diagnosis and Treatment Protocols – Implement stricter guidelines for stroke and emergency care.
3. Strengthen Medical Regulation – Enforce licensing requirements for hospitals and clinics.
4. Introduce a Medical Negligence Law – Establish a legal framework to hold medical professionals accountable.
5. Build Public Trust – Improve training for doctors and enhance patient-doctor communication.
6. Create a Health Service Commission – Oversee quality standards and investigate malpractice cases.
The case of Mr Hasan is not an isolated incident—it is a symptom of a healthcare system that struggles with misdiagnoses and delays. Unless systemic reforms are undertaken, countless others will continue to suffer due to preventable medical errors.
19 hours ago
Slow pace plagues Gollamari Steel Arch Bridge construction in Khulna
The construction work of the long-awaited Gollamari Steel Arch Bridge over the Mayur River of Khulna is going on at a snail pace on several grounds, including disagreements between the implementing organisation and the contractor, and insufficiency of budget.
Investing Tk 67.66 crore, the Ministry of Road, Transport and Bridges started implementing the project under the supervision of Khulna Roads and Highways.
Though it was scheduled to be completed by March this year, only 19 percent of the work has been finished over the past 16 months.
Vehicles and commuters have to face immense suffering for use of a single lane on the Khulna-Chaknagar-Satkhira regional road over the river.
The disagreements between the contractor and the implementing agency Khulna Road and Highways Division, budget discrepancies and an unresolved extra 20% payment (around Tk 13-14 crore) for variation works were mainly blamed for the delay in the work.
Contractor farm National Development Engineers Limited predicted that it will take time to complete the work if the issue of additional 20% funding is not resolved.
Sources said the work order of the Gollamari Bridge was approved on October 1, 2023, with the physical work beginning on October 8 of the same year.
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Due to delay, a new deadline was set till June 30 of the current year.
But, apparently it seems that it is quite impossible to end within the timeframe.
The lack of prior experience in constructing such a steel network arch bridge within the Road and Highways Department, and technical issues with the design were also attributed behind the delay.
Though the bridge's design is similar to that of Dhaka's Hatirjheel project, it incorporates several improvements and is technologically advanced.
Once completed, it will be the first steel network arch bridge under the Roads and Highways Department in Bangladesh.
Talking to UNB, Project Director Apurba Kumar Biswas said early design issues, such as insufficient piling for the bridge, delayed the project further.
In addition, unexpected work involving 12-meter seat piles added an additional Tk 2 crore in costs. The RHD has yet to decide whether these extra costs will be reimbursed.
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The bridge, once completed, will be an iconic addition to Khulna. However, due to material costs, including steel, and the additional technical challenges, the project is expected to exceed the original contract value by Tk 13 to 14 crore, he said.
20 hours ago
Hospital waste management in Bangladesh lags behind sustainable standards
Experts have warned that Bangladesh’s current healthcare waste management system falls significantly short of sustainable waste management principles, with 55% of solid waste in urban areas remaining uncollected, exacerbating pollution, public health risks and climate change.
Despite the severe consequences of inadequate legislation and the absence of a comprehensive waste management plan, Bangladesh lacks a dedicated authority to oversee this critical issue.
The country’s medical waste generation is increasing at an estimated rate of 3% per year, with overall waste production standing at approximately 25,000 tonnes per day. Dhaka alone manages nearly 6,500 tonnes daily, a figure projected to rise to 8,500 tonnes by 2032.
Meanwhile, South Asia generates over 1.5 million tonnes of solid waste daily, with only 40% being collected and less than 10% recycled, according to the World Bank.
A study titled Healthcare Waste in Bangladesh: Current Status, the Impact of Covid-19, and Sustainable Management with Life Cycle and Circular Economy Framework predicts that, excluding surges due to Covid-19 and other medical emergencies, Bangladesh will generate approximately 50,000 tonnes of medical waste (1.25 kg per bed per day) in 2025, of which 12,435 tonnes will be hazardous.
Research published in 2022 found that medical waste generation in Dhaka ranges between 1.63 kg and 1.99 kg per bed per day, a figure that significantly increased after the Covid-19 pandemic.
Persistent Challenges Despite Some Progress
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) established five medical waste management facilities in Cox’s Bazar district between 2015 and 2021. Despite such initiatives, medical waste management challenges persist, particularly in areas with vulnerable populations.
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The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) Bangladesh hosted the 12th episode of SDG Café, a monthly roundtable discussion series focusing on sustainable development goals (SDGs).
The event, held on 3 October 2024, explored Solid Waste Management – Challenges and Solutions for Bangladesh and highlighted SDGs 11, 12, and 13, which aim to reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse by 2030.
Expert Insights on Sustainable Solutions
Keynote speaker Dr Rowshan Mamtaz, Professor of Environmental Engineering at Buet, outlined the stark realities of Bangladesh’s waste management crisis.
She stressed the need for a comprehensive household waste segregation system, pointing out that the volume of waste is expected to double every 15 years. The country’s inadequate infrastructure, lack of segregation, and poorly managed landfills are worsening environmental issues.
Dr Mamtaz called for an urgent shift towards the 3R approach—Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle—and emphasised that Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) must be implemented and enforced to develop a sustainable waste management framework.
UNOPS Bangladesh Country Manager Sudhir Muralidharan echoed these sentiments, stating, “Solid waste management is not just about disposal; it is about reshaping our consumption patterns and prioritising sustainability.”
Although medical waste comprises only about 1% of total solid waste in Bangladesh, its improper handling leads to contamination of the entire waste stream, making it hazardous.
Regulatory Framework and Its Limitations
The Bangladeshi government introduced the Solid Waste Management Rules 2021 and the National 3R Strategy to enhance waste management practices. City corporations and municipalities have incorporated these strategies to improve their waste management activities. The Solid Waste Management Rules 2021 also introduced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for the first time.
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Despite these regulations, Bangladesh has yet to establish a dedicated authority to manage medical waste. Instead, organisations such as PRISM Bangladesh, Waste Concern, the Centre for Sustainable Development (CSD), the Environment and Social Development Organisation (ESDO), and ICDDR,B take the lead in medical waste management, particularly in Dhaka.
Medical Waste Mismanagement and Corruption
Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has revealed that certain hospital staff members sell reusable medical waste—such as glass bottles, syringes, saline bags, and blood bags—to unscrupulous recyclable waste collectors instead of ensuring proper disposal. A syndicate reportedly cleans and repackages these materials without adequate sterilisation before selling them to drug stores, hospitals, and clinics.
Under the Medical Waste (Management and Treatment) Rules 2008, hospitals are required to cut or puncture plastic tubes and other waste items to prevent reuse. However, TIB research found that 31% of hospitals fail to comply with this rule, and 49% lack needle destroyers.
A study titled Governance Challenges in Medical Waste Management and Way Forward, conducted between June 2021 and November 2022, surveyed 93 medical waste workers and 231 institutions, including hospitals, city corporations, and municipal authorities across 45 districts. The study found widespread non-compliance with regulations and a lack of oversight.
Although the 2008 regulations mandated the formation of an Authority within three months of publication, this has yet to materialise. Instead, city corporations and hospitals have outsourced waste management to unlicensed contractors.
Lack of Transparency and Coordination
UNB investigations at various public and private hospitals in Dhaka found that most institutions were reluctant to discuss their waste management practices. Many hospitals still dispose of waste as general refuse, citing high sorting costs and a lack of enforcement mechanisms.
Moreover, there is no central database tracking medical waste. The study also uncovered irregularities in the recruitment process for waste management workers, with bribes of Tk 1-2 lakh reportedly exchanged for employment at government hospitals.
1 day ago
Agri Mechanisation: ‘Samaloy’ method boosting paddy production in Meherpur
With the rapid advancement of technology, modern, time-saving equipment has been introduced to meet the ever-growing demand for food, transforming traditional farming practices.
Farmers across the globe are increasingly adopting modern technologies from planting to harvesting, moving away from ancient tools like ploughs and spades and Bangladesh is no exception.
One such innovation is the Samaloy method, a new approach to farming that involves planting the same variety of paddy in a field using modern machinery.
This method synchronises all farming processes that cut labour and time requirements.
The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Meherpur is spearheading efforts to modernise agriculture and make it more profitable by promoting the use of machinery.
As part of this initiative, the DAE has introduced Samaloy method for paddy cultivation, aiming to reduce farmers' time and labou costs while increasing productivity.
Recently, the DAE launched mechanised Boro paddy cultivation in Gangni upazila for the 2024-2025 season.
Over 200 farmers attended the demonstration at Garan Field in Gopalnagar village, Gangni upazila.
This year, a total of 100 acres of land in Meherpur Sadar and Gangni upazilas will adopt the Samaloy method under the DAE's supervision.
Jujube brings money and joy to once jobless Samiul in C’nawabganj
The traditional method of transplantation is being replaced by advanced machinery to ensure faster and more efficient farming , said farmers.
Farmers will plant paddy saplings in plastic trays, where seeds are sown and later transplanted into fields using rice transplanting machines.
This mechanised approach also includes machine-based fertilization, irrigation, and harvesting, addressing labour shortages, reducing production costs, and saving valuable time.
"Through this method, everything—from seed planting to fertilizer application and even harvesting—will be done using machines," said Imran Hossain, Agricultural Officer in Gangni.
He emphasised that this mechanization would help local farmers save time and money while improving yields.
The DAE is actively encouraging farmers in the region to adopt this method to enhance efficiency and productivity, he said.
To promote the widespread adoption of this method, the DAE has set a target to cultivate Boro paddy on 19,327 hectares of land in the district this year.
As part of this initiative, 60 farmers in Gopalnagar village, Gangni upazila, will plant paddy on 50 acres using transplanting machines.
Besides, 65 farmers in Ashrafpur village, Meherpur Sadar upazila, will adopt the same method on another 50 acres.
Bijoy Krishna Haldar, the DAE Deputy Director of the district, said the initiative aims to reduce labour costs and increase the use of technology in farming.
He expressed hope that the new technology would significantly lower production costs for farmers, making their operations more profitable.
1 day ago
Jujube brings money and joy to once jobless Samiul in C’nawabganj
Samiul Hossain, a 39-year-old agricultural entrepreneur, has successfully transformed his fortune through jujube (boroi) cultivation in Gomastapur upazila of Chapainawabganj becoming a source of inspiration for others.
After a failed career in Iraq as an expatriate, Samiul, a resident of Daingpara area of the upazila, returned home around five years back amid frustration over his career.
Being inspired about the jujube cultivation after watching videos on YouTube, he decided to venture into it. The fruit is popularly known as boroi or kul.
With consultancy from a relative, he leased 16 bighas of land near his house and started its cultivation. As his business began to grow, he expanded the orchard gradually.
Currently, he has been cultivating various types of jujube on 40 bighas of land, flourishing with clusters of ripe fruits.
His endeavor and subsequent success set an example to many unemployed youths to transform their fortunes through farming this fruit.
The 40-bigh orchard is now enriched with various types of jujubes like Bolsundari, Indrasundari, 'Baby Sundari, Kashmiri, and 'Tokmisti.' The trees are now full of fruits, and the branches are weighed down by the abundance of jujubes with the blessing of congenial weather.
The entrepreneur said he initially started selling the ripe fruit at Tk 110 per kilogram, but now the price has come down at Tk 70-80.
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He informed that he has so far sold his yields worth Tk 20 lakh this season, expecting to earn another Tk 30 lakh if the weather remains favourable, indicating a good profit.
Samiul said buyers from different parts of the country come to this orchard and buy the fruit in cash. Currently 25 employees are working with him.
"I used to be unemployed myself, but now, 20 to 25 workers are employed in my orchard every day, and it gives me peace of mind knowing they have work," he said.
Fazlul Bari, a local school teacher who visited the farm, said, "I heard about the bumper harvest of jujube here, so I came to see it for myself. I walked around the orchard, tried the different varieties, and they tasted very sweet. I’m really satisfied, and I’m thinking of starting a similar orchard myself in the future."
Another visitor from Nachol expressed the same sentiments.
Calling Samiul a successful agricultural entrepreneur, Agriculture Officer of Gomastapur Upazila Tanvir Ahmed Sarker said he has shown that agriculture can be highly profitable and become an inspiration for young entrepreneurs.
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The agricultural department continues to offer him all kinds of support and guidance, he said.
According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, this variety of fruit was cultivated on 535 hectares of land in the district this year.
2 days ago
Sundarbans Day to be observed Friday, still awaits national recognition
Despite lacking official recognition, ‘Sundarbans Day’ will be observed on Friday in the coastal districts, including Bagerhat and Khulna, with renewed calls for the government to acknowledge it nationally.
The Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest, is home to diverse animal species and unique flora. Since 2002, coastal communities adjacent to the Sundarbans have marked this day, with divisional-level events held in Khulna.
Besides, youth forums in 17 upazilas across five Sundarbans-adjacent districts will observe the day.
Even after 23 years, authorities have yet to respond to appeals for official recognition.
Organisers believe that a nationally recognised ‘Sundarbans Day’ would enhance the forest’s status and promote its significance both domestically and internationally.
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Such recognition, they argue, would also contribute to conservation efforts.
A Natural Wonder at Risk
The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies in southwestern Bangladesh along the Bay of Bengal and has evolved into a natural marvel.
In 1878, it was declared a reserved forest, spanning 6,017 square kilometres, including 4,143 square kilometres of land and 1,873 square kilometres of water bodies.
More than half of the Sundarbans is now a protected area.
The ecosystem is globally recognised for its rich biodiversity, serving as a habitat for the Royal Bengal Tiger and acting as a natural barrier against cyclones and tidal surges.
The Sundarbans also offers the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of people and attracts both domestic and foreign tourists with its mesmerising landscapes.
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Experts warn that climate change poses a grave threat to the mangrove forest, with cyclones and tidal surges repeatedly causing damage. Yet, nature's resilience has allowed it to recover time and again.
Calls for National Recognition
In 1997, UNESCO designated three wildlife sanctuaries in the Sundarbans as World Heritage Sites.
The forest's name is believed to derive from the abundance of 'Sundari' trees, though some argue it originates from 'Samundarbana' (forest by the sea), given its proximity to the Bay of Bengal.
The first comprehensive survey of the Sundarbans was conducted between 1769 and 1773.
3 days ago
Bangladesh's export diversification struggle: Key challenges and barriers
Although Bangladesh’s export volume has grown by over 5 per cent in the last 35 years since 1989-90, the diversification of export products remains elusive, with exports still concentrated in just 8 to 9 major items.
Why has Bangladesh been unable to achieve significant export diversification despite sustained efforts?
According to Abu Mukhles Alamgir Hossain, Director (Policy and Planning) of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), several other promising sectors, such as leather and leather goods, jute and jute products, agricultural and processed products, handicrafts, pharmaceuticals, ICT and ICT-enabled services, and light engineering products, do not receive the same level of policy support and incentives as the readymade garments (RMG) sector.
He emphasised that sector-specific policy papers are essential to assess the advantages and disadvantages of diversification while also analysing the strategies of competing nations.
Barriers to Export Diversification
A range of challenges hinder Bangladesh’s export diversification efforts.
These include low technological advancement, inconsistent trade policies, environmental and compliance issues, skill shortages, limited innovation and research & development (R&D), inadequate logistics, intense global competition, and restricted access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Alamgir Hossain said that SMEs in Bangladesh struggle due to limited access to affordable credit. High interest rates and collateral requirements create significant barriers to business expansion.
“Although SMEs are regarded as the lifeblood of the economy, Bangladesh must prioritise their development if serious about export diversification,” he said.
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He added that export diversification cannot happen overnight. There is no shortcut to achieving it. Long-term strategies, sector-specific policies, business-friendly customs procedures, and efficient logistics are crucial for ensuring a diversified export sector.
Current Export Scenario
According to the EPB, Bangladesh exported goods worth Tk 2.94 lakh crore (US$28 billion) in the seven months from July to January, of which Tk 2.46 lakh crore (US$23.5 billion) came from garments alone. During this period in the current 2024-25 fiscal year, total export earnings grew by 11.68 per cent.
The ready-made garment sector grew by 12 per cent, with knitwear expanding by 12 per cent and woven garments by 11.97 per cent compared to the same period last year.
Bangladesh’s export earnings are still overwhelmingly dependent on the clothing sector. The EPB reports that in the 2023-24 fiscal year, knitwear accounted for 44.6 per cent of exports, woven garments 37.2 per cent, home textiles 3.3 per cent, footwear 2.3 per cent, jute products 1.9 per cent, and fish 1 per cent.
Despite expert recommendations and government initiatives to promote export diversification, non-RMG sectors have shown little improvement, continuing their weak performance year after year.
Bangladesh’s export products remain concentrated in just eight categories: knitwear, woven garments, agricultural products, leather and leather goods, jute and jute products, home textiles, frozen and live fish and engineering products.
Challenges in Expanding Export Markets
Bangladesh’s primary export destinations are the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom. While these markets are large, they primarily import clothing items from Bangladesh due to the country's expertise in the sector and its competitive pricing, industry insiders say.
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Dr Mohammad Abdur Razzaque, Chairman of the Research and Policy Integration for Development (RAPID) think tank, stressed that the time for serious efforts towards export diversification is now.
“Although achieving major export diversification is a long-term process and Bangladesh has been trying for years, there is no alternative but to achieve diversification to sustain the export sector,” he stated.
Dr Razzaque, who has also served as a trade expert in the UK and EU, warned that global challenges could lead to declining demand for clothing products in the USA, UK, and EU, as competing countries ramp up their export capacities.
Furthermore, he pointed out that US sanctions on China may indirectly affect Bangladesh’s garment sector, given that Bangladesh imports a significant portion of raw materials for garments from China. The evolving global trade landscape poses additional risks.
Key Issues Preventing Export Diversification
Responding to why Bangladesh has failed to diversify its exports, Dr Razzaque said, “We have not taken the issue of product diversification seriously enough. Compliance is another major concern.”
He noted that the potential of the leather sector remains largely untapped due to compliance issues. “Bangladesh had ample time to address compliance challenges in the leather industry, but mismanagement and corruption have kept the sector lagging behind,” he added.
Dr Razzaque emphasised the need for improving workforce skills to enhance competitiveness in the global market.
He argued that producing diversified and high-end products would provide Bangladesh with a crucial advantage in exports.
While Bangladesh’s export sector has seen remarkable growth, its overwhelming reliance on the RMG industry makes it vulnerable to shifts in global demand and competition.
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Addressing barriers such as inadequate policy support for non-RMG sectors, compliance shortcomings, skill gaps, and financial constraints on SMEs is essential for meaningful diversification. Without significant reforms and targeted investment in emerging export industries, Bangladesh risks stagnation in its export growth and long-term economic vulnerability.
3 days ago
Severe shortages cripple healthcare at Bagerhat’s 250-bed hospital
Healthcare services at the Bagerhat 250-bed hospital have been severely hampered for years due to a shortage of doctors, inadequate funding, and an ongoing crisis of hospital beds. Despite being the district’s main healthcare facility, the hospital continues to operate with resources meant for a 100-bed capacity, locals say.
According to hospital records, 33 out of 58 physician posts remain vacant, creating a critical gap in patient care. The anesthesiology department, essential for surgeries and emergency interventions, has only one junior consultant. Due to this shortage, treatments for cardiac, ophthalmological, and ENT (ear, nose, and throat) patients have been suspended.
Other vital services remain non-functional. The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) has been shut down after running for just one year, and kidney dialysis services have yet to begin, forcing critically ill patients to seek treatment elsewhere.
With 400 patients admitted daily—far exceeding the hospital’s 250-bed capacity—many are forced to sleep on the floor, even in winter. During a visit to the hospital, patients were found lying on the floors of corridors, stairways, and near nurses' counters due to a lack of space.
Md Zahid, a patient from Muginj, has been receiving treatment on the floor for four days. "I haven't received any food from the hospital," he said. Other patients, Eskendar Ali Sardar and Zihad Talukdar, shared similar experiences.
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Nurses say they are overwhelmed by the heavy workload. Each nurse attends to 40-45 patients daily, making it nearly impossible to provide quality care.
“We receive food allocations for only 40 patients, but we often have 75 to 80 admitted, leaving many without meals,” said Nilufa Khanom, a nurse in the surgery department. "This creates conflicts between staff and patient families."
Established in 1970 as a 50-bed facility, the hospital was upgraded to 100 beds in 1992 and later to 250 beds in January 2022. However, its staffing and funding have remained at the 100-bed level, failing to match the rising patient demand.
Currently, out of 10 senior consultant posts, only two are filled, and only four consultants are available out of 15 posts. The situation is even worse in the anesthesiology department, where just one doctor is available out of six.
Meanwhile, the outpatient department sees 1,200 to 1,500 patients daily, while the emergency unit handles 250 cases—putting immense pressure on the hospital’s limited staff.
Dr. Taposh Kumar Sarkar, the hospital’s resident medical officer, admitted that the facility is struggling to provide proper care to 17 lakh people in the district.
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"Despite increasing the hospital’s capacity, manpower and funding have not been adjusted accordingly," he said. "Under such conditions, ensuring patient satisfaction is nearly impossible."
He urged the government and local stakeholders to intervene immediately, warning that without urgent measures, the crisis will only worsen.
3 days ago
Entrepreneurs face uncertainty over higher interest rates, energy supply disruptions
Entrepreneurs, both small and large, are grappling with mounting financial pressure as rising interest rates drive up borrowing costs, and uncertainty looms over the uninterrupted supply of gas crucial for manufacturing.
Due to three major factors, entrepreneurs are at risk of defaulting on bank loans, as instalment amounts have increased with rising interest rates, according to business leaders.
At the same time, they said, the period for declaring a borrower a defaulter is now limited to three months.
They fear that interest rates may rise further and that production lines could be disrupted due to gas supply shortages.
Speaking to UNB, several small and large entrepreneurs claimed that law enforcement agencies, especially the police, must play a vital role at the field level, particularly where roads are blocked, and labour unrest erupts based on rumours or minor issues.
They believe that a political government can manage such situations more effectively than an interim government, as political parties have local workers engaged in various business sectors.
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The current situation calls for a strong policy to ensure a smooth supply chain of raw materials and a safe production environment.
At the same time, entrepreneurs have sought an uninterrupted supply of gas and electricity, which is essential for cost-effective production.
Political stability and investment confidence
Abdul Awal Mintoo, former president of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), told UNB that business thrives under a political government.
"Domestic and international trade will expand when a political government assumes state power. The international business community seeks strong commitments from the government for investment, which a political government can provide," he said.
Regarding reforms, he said that an interim government could not carry out all necessary reforms, as they require significant time and public support.
Challenges of high interest rates
Commenting on high interest rates, Mintoo, who is also the vice-chairman of the BNP, said that doing business under such conditions is extremely difficult and that Bangladeshi manufacturers will struggle to compete in the global market.
He attributed the liquidity crisis in banks to the excessive misuse of loans by previous government allies.
Banks accepted short-term deposits but issued long-term loans, leading to higher interest rates to manage funds.
He suggested establishing an alternative investment fund, a viable stock market to provide accessible funds through profit-sharing, or a low-interest investment fund, without which businesses cannot operate comfortably.
Concerns of Young Entrepreneurs
Rubaet Ahmed, a young entrepreneur and owner of Glorious Fashion in Ashulia, told UNB that certain facilities are essential to overcoming the crisis in the export-oriented garment sector.
These include flexible financing, strong security measures, a stable energy supply, and a government one-stop service desk for all export-import-related processes.
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He also highlighted the need for greater respect from government officials, which is currently lacking.
“We do not seek anything beyond respect from government officials. However, as entrepreneurs, we are sometimes treated like criminals despite investing capital and creating employment. This must change,” said Ahmed.
Economic outlook and policy recommendations
Dr Masrur Reaz, a former senior economist at the World Bank Group and now a public policy expert in Bangladesh, said that economic activity is gradually picking up following the political transition.
However, the financial sector has faced challenges in recent years due to large-scale loan scams, and many banks have lost their capacity for new investments. As the banking sector is the backbone of the financial system, stability will take time to restore, he pointed out.
"Globally, inflation and interest rates have declined, but Bangladesh’s situation is different due to discrepancies in financial sector data, which has created uncertainty in controlling inflation and interest rates," Dr Reaz said.
Explaining the current scenario, he noted that anyone managing the financial sector under such conditions would face significant challenges.
He advised entrepreneurs to remain patient and make the best use of their existing assets to sustain their businesses.
4 days ago
NBR: International trade to go fully online under a single window next month
In a significant step the National Board of Revenue (NBR) will formally launch Bangladesh Single Window (BSW) system next month to speed up international trade online.
The system, considered by NBR a milestone in making businesses faceless and digital, had a soft launch last month, officials said this week.
This platform aims to streamline the import and export processes by integrating multiple regulatory agencies into a unified digital framework.
The BSW is designed to automate and simplify procedures related to international trade, allowing traders to submit necessary documents such as certificates, licenses, and permits (CLPs) through a single online portal, according to NBR papers.
This initiative is expected to reduce bureaucratic delays, enhance transparency, and lower the costs associated with trade activities.
Initially, seven out of the 19 targeted regulatory agencies have been integrated into the system.
These include the Directorate General of Drug Administration, the Export Promotion Bureau, the Department of Explosives, the Bangladesh National Authority for Chemical Weapons Convention, the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority, the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority, and the Department of Environment.
“We hope that the 12 others authorities would be on board from next month,” NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan told a recently held programme at the NBR.
He said that business people would be able to get various kind of licenses and permits from one single window.
Govt pushes drive to modernise NBR with new tech to augment revenue collection
“Request and deluvery pricess will be done from a single window. It will be a totally faceceless environemnt. The husiness people will not need to go anywhere,” the revenue collecting boss said.
The NBR has mandated that, effective from this February 1 all import and export-related CLPs for these seven agencies must be submitted exclusively through the BSW system, discontinuing manual submissions.
Furthermore, the NBR has set a deadline of March 1 this year for the remaining 12 agencies to integrate into the platform. Failure to comply may result in administrative actions, as emphasised by Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed during last month's launch event.
While the BSW represents a commendable effort towards modernizing Bangladesh’s trade infrastructure, its partial launch after an eight-year gestation period raises concerns about the efficiency and effectiveness of project implementation.
Initiated in 2017 during the Awami League regime, the project’s prolonged timeline has delayed the anticipated benefits for the trading community.
The initial plan envisioned the integration of 19 agencies. However, as of now, only seven have been incorporated, with the rest pending integration by the newly set deadlines.
The staggered integration of agencies could pose challenges for traders who interact with multiple regulatory bodies, potentially leading to confusion and operational inefficiencies during the transition period.
Moreover, the success of the BSW hinges not only on the technological infrastructure but also on the readiness and adaptability of the involved agencies and the trading community.
Comprehensive training programmes and change management initiatives are essential to ensure a smooth transition from manual to digital processes, officials involved in the project mentioned.
Another critical aspect is the system’s robustness and security, the NBR officials said speaking on condition of anonymity.
NBR to fully operationalise bond automation this month to boost trade efficiency
Given the sensitive nature of trade data, the BSW must incorporate stringent cybersecurity measures to protect against data breaches and unauthorised access.
Past incidents, such as the 2022 breach of the NBR’s server to release cargo at Chittagong Port, highlight the vulnerabilities in existing systems and underscore the need for enhanced security protocols in the BSW.
Furthermore, the effectiveness of the BSW in reducing corruption and enhancing transparency will depend on its ability to minimize human intervention in the approval processes, a senior NBR official said wishing anonymity as he is not authorised to speak on the subject.
While automation can streamline procedures, it is imperative to establish clear accountability mechanisms to prevent potential misuse or manipulation of the system.
The NBR said its initiative to implement the BSW aligns with global best practices in trade facilitation, aiming to create a more efficient and transparent trading environment in Bangladesh.
However, the partial and delayed implementation raises questions about project management and inter-agency coordination.
To realize the full potential of the BSW, it is crucial for the NBR and the associated agencies to expedite the integration process, ensure system security, provide adequate training to stakeholders, and establish robust monitoring mechanisms to oversee the system’s performance and address any emerging issues promptly.
While the launch of the BSW is a step in the right direction for Bangladesh’s trade facilitation, the challenges observed during its rollout highlight the need for a more proactive and coordinated approach to project implementation, according to analysts.
NBR moves to simplify clearance system for smooth business
“The success of the BSW will ultimately depend on the collective commitment of the NBR, the integrated agencies, and the trading community to embrace and effectively utilize this digital platform,” according to another NBR official who also wished anonymity.
4 days ago