Energy Crisis Pushes Ceramic Industry to the Brink
Bangladesh’s ceramic industry is facing one of its toughest periods in decades, as soaring gas prices and unstable energy supply strain production and profitability. Between 2015 and 2023, gas prices in the manufacturing sector surged by about 345 percent, including a 150 percent hike in 2023 alone. This escalation has raised production costs by 18-20 percent, since gas serves as both a key energy source and raw material. Yet, producers cannot freely increase prices due to competition from
MADE IN BANGLADESH: Homegrown Champions of Change
Bangladesh’s meteoric rise in the global garment industry has long been admired, and now a deeper transformation is underway — one that reflects diversification, resilience, and ambition. Amid global supply chain realignments and rising manufacturing costs in East Asia, Bangladesh has emerged as one of the world’s most export-ready economies. But beyond the looms and threads, “Made in Bangladesh” businesses are stepping into the spotlight — from green technology and agribusiness to pharmaceuticals and consumer goods.
Architect Marina Tabassum A Rare Brilliance
Architect Marina Tabassum has carved a luminous path that transcends architecture and redefined design as a language of place—rooted in climate, culture, and community. Her Bait Ur Rouf Mosque, completed in 2012, became a global milestone when it earned the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2016. In 2025, she achieved the rare distinction of winning the Aga Khan Award again, this time for Khudi Bari. Her brilliance extends far beyond these awards. Tabassum has designed the Museum of
IAB Build Expo, ArchSummit See Vibrant Participation of Architects on Day 2
Day two of the global events of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB) — the IAB Build Expo 2025 and Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 — saw vibrant participation from architects, designers, academics, and industry leaders from home and abroad. While the ArchSummit hosted curated seminars and panel discussions for registered participants, addressing key issues within the contemporary architectural landscape, the IAB Build Expo — the country’s largest exhibition of building materials and construction innovations — remained open to all visitors. Held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC) in the capital alongside the expo, IAB launched Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 under the theme “Crafting Space, Shaping Habitat.” The three-day event, running from December 11 to 13, brought together global and local experts from various fields to engage in dialogue on the future of Asia’s built environment. The ground floor of BCFCC hosted a lively exhibition where leading brands showcased their latest products and innovations, allowing visitors to explore advancements that support stronger, safer, and more sustainable construction. The second floor featured a dedicated ArchSummit seminar hall, with adjacent corridors displaying award-winning architectural projects from Bangladesh, creating a well-curated and dynamic event overall. Architect Rashed Chowdhury, a practising architect and founder of Dehsar Works (DW), opened the second day’s roundtable discussion on the “Poetics of Crafting Spaces” with a fundamental question: “Where is here?” “Our geographical and socio-political context inevitably shapes our responsibilities as designers — influencing how we think about space-making and the materials we choose,” he said. By posing this question, he invited participants to examine how the sense of belonging is defined, whether “here” is determined by political boundaries or by the deeper, more enduring contours of culture and identity. Speaking on materiality, award-winning green architect Rizvi Hassan remarked that it is much like cooking — and that, like any good chef, architects should feel free to use all the ingredients available to them. Shamsul Wares, a trailblazer of contemporary Bangladeshi architecture and an eminent art critic, reflected on how modern architecture’s obsession with efficiency has fallen short, arguing that true value lies in quality and the poetic dimension of space. “Architecture is about designing experience,” he said, highlighting light as both phenomenon and material. Wares urged architects to learn from modernity’s mistakes while considering the body, soul, and society in their work. “All art wants to be poetry. Poetry wants to be music. And music ultimately wants to be spirituality,” he concluded. The event’s guest of honour, Architect Fawad Suhail Abbasi, president of the Institute of Architects, Pakistan (IAP), reflected on how the day’s discussion prompted him to reassess his own practice. With his firm long focusing on brick and sustainable architectural practice, he realised that one cannot overlook the foundational lessons inherited from peers and mentors. He emphasised the importance of finding the mentor within oneself, following that inner direction, and discovering one’s own architectural path, much like the evolving journey of Bangladeshi architects today. After a break for prayer and lunch, a second panel discussion on design, dialogue, and direction in shaping habitat brought together local architects and academics. The discussion highlighted how governments worldwide often overlook the realities of architectural practice — advising against costly materials without recognising that every material has its place when used appropriately. One panellist noted that while academic curricula aligned with the SDGs have expanded, they fail to create responsible citizens who can truly improve the city and country. The day concluded with the IAB Induction Ceremony 2025, welcoming its new fellows and members. Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, conveyed his heartfelt congratulations virtually, noting that one of the year’s first significant milestones was the unification of the Architects’ Association of South Asia. With representatives from seven countries coming together, he emphasised that this collaboration would strengthen knowledge exchange, professional cooperation, and a sense of fraternity among architects across the region — particularly as many of their challenges remain shared. Written by Fariha Hossain
IAB Build Expo, ArchSummit See Vibrant Participation of Architects on Day 2
Day two of the global events of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB) — the IAB Build Expo 2025 and Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 — saw vibrant participation from architects, designers, academics, and industry leaders from home and abroad. While the ArchSummit hosted curated seminars and panel discussions for registered participants, addressing key issues within the contemporary architectural landscape, the IAB Build Expo — the country’s largest exhibition of building materials and construction innovations — remained open to all visitors. Held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC) in the capital alongside the expo, IAB launched Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 under the theme “Crafting Space, Shaping Habitat.” The three-day event, running from December 11 to 13, brought together global and local experts from various fields to engage in dialogue on the future of Asia’s built environment. The ground floor of BCFCC hosted a lively exhibition where leading brands showcased their latest products and innovations, allowing visitors to explore advancements that support stronger, safer, and more sustainable construction. The second floor featured a dedicated ArchSummit seminar hall, with adjacent corridors displaying award-winning architectural projects from Bangladesh, creating a well-curated and dynamic event overall. Architect Rashed Chowdhury, a practising architect and founder of Dehsar Works (DW), opened the second day’s roundtable discussion on the “Poetics of Crafting Spaces” with a fundamental question: “Where is here?” “Our geographical and socio-political context inevitably shapes our responsibilities as designers — influencing how we think about space-making and the materials we choose,” he said. By posing this question, he invited participants to examine how the sense of belonging is defined, whether “here” is determined by political boundaries or by the deeper, more enduring contours of culture and identity. Speaking on materiality, award-winning green architect Rizvi Hassan remarked that it is much like cooking — and that, like any good chef, architects should feel free to use all the ingredients available to them. Shamsul Wares, a trailblazer of contemporary Bangladeshi architecture and an eminent art critic, reflected on how modern architecture’s obsession with efficiency has fallen short, arguing that true value lies in quality and the poetic dimension of space. “Architecture is about designing experience,” he said, highlighting light as both phenomenon and material. Wares urged architects to learn from modernity’s mistakes while considering the body, soul, and society in their work. “All art wants to be poetry. Poetry wants to be music. And music ultimately wants to be spirituality,” he concluded. The event’s guest of honour, Architect Fawad Suhail Abbasi, president of the Institute of Architects, Pakistan (IAP), reflected on how the day’s discussion prompted him to reassess his own practice. With his firm long focusing on brick and sustainable architectural practice, he realised that one cannot overlook the foundational lessons inherited from peers and mentors. He emphasised the importance of finding the mentor within oneself, following that inner direction, and discovering one’s own architectural path, much like the evolving journey of Bangladeshi architects today. After a break for prayer and lunch, a second panel discussion on design, dialogue, and direction in shaping habitat brought together local architects and academics. The discussion highlighted how governments worldwide often overlook the realities of architectural practice — advising against costly materials without recognising that every material has its place when used appropriately. One panellist noted that while academic curricula aligned with the SDGs have expanded, they fail to create responsible citizens who can truly improve the city and country. The day concluded with the IAB Induction Ceremony 2025, welcoming its new fellows and members. Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, conveyed his heartfelt congratulations virtually, noting that one of the year’s first significant milestones was the unification of the Architects’ Association of South Asia. With representatives from seven countries coming together, he emphasised that this collaboration would strengthen knowledge exchange, professional cooperation, and a sense of fraternity among architects across the region — particularly as many of their challenges remain shared. Written by Fariha Hossain
Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 Begins Alongside the IAB Build Expo 2025
The Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB) inaugurated the Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 today, December 11. This year’s theme, “Crafting Space, Shaping Habitat,” sets the stage for a grand celebration of architecture, education, profession and practice, ideas, innovation, and excellence. Running in parallel with the Summit, IAB also launched the IAB Build Expo 2025, the country’s largest exhibition of building materials and construction innovations. Both events will continue until December 13 at the Bangladesh China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC). The Summit is open exclusively to registered participants, while the Expo is open to all visitors. This year’s Summit has been carefully planned with a distinguished lineup of renowned international and national speakers, along with a range of enriching programmes, including an exhibition of award-winning architectural works, roundtable discussions, a young citizens’ painting competition, a photography competition, and exciting cultural events for registered participants. Participants will also have the opportunity to attend the Student Forum, Youth Forum, and plenary sessions, where esteemed speakers will share their ideas, design philosophies, and professional insights throughout the three-day event. Day One began with the Student Forum, featuring a quiz and debate competition, and included the Summit and Build Expo Inauguration Ceremony. Other attractions include the Open Photography Competition, Young Citizens’ Painting Competition, and Public Exhibition on Architecture. The Young Painting Exhibition features curated artworks submitted by students from Classes 6 to 10. The jury panel for the selection included Architect Rafiq Azam, artist Afzal Hossain, and Farida Zaman. The theme of the architectural works exhibition, PEOPLE | PLACE | PRESENCE, celebrates architecture that shapes communities, responds to context, and defines presence through space. The exhibition showcases curated works selected from project submissions in the following categories: Internationally Awarded Projects (2024–2025) from Bangladesh IAB & BERGER Award Projects (last cycle) Public Projects (nationwide) Projects Located in Old Dhaka The project selection team comprised Dr. Abu Sayeed M Ahmed, Ar. Khan Md. Mahfuzul Hug Zaglul, Ar. Nowajish Mahbub, Dr. Khurshid Zabin Hossain Taufique, and Prof. Zainab Faruqui Ali. The ArchSummit and Build Expo aim to provide a platform for architects, students, industry professionals, and the public to explore architecture, innovation, and the future of the built environment in Bangladesh. Written By Tasmiah Chowdhury
IAB Build Expo, ArchSummit See Vibrant Participation of Architects on Day 2
Day two of the global events of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB) — the IAB Build Expo 2025 and Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 — saw vibrant participation from architects, designers, academics, and industry leaders from home and abroad. While the ArchSummit hosted curated seminars and panel discussions for registered participants, addressing key issues within the contemporary architectural landscape, the IAB Build Expo — the country’s largest exhibition of building materials and construction innovations — remained open to all visitors. Held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC) in the capital alongside the expo, IAB launched Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 under the theme “Crafting Space, Shaping Habitat.” The three-day event, running from December 11 to 13, brought together global and local experts from various fields to engage in dialogue on the future of Asia’s built environment. The ground floor of BCFCC hosted a lively exhibition where leading brands showcased their latest products and innovations, allowing visitors to explore advancements that support stronger, safer, and more sustainable construction. The second floor featured a dedicated ArchSummit seminar hall, with adjacent corridors displaying award-winning architectural projects from Bangladesh, creating a well-curated and dynamic event overall. Architect Rashed Chowdhury, a practising architect and founder of Dehsar Works (DW), opened the second day’s roundtable discussion on the “Poetics of Crafting Spaces” with a fundamental question: “Where is here?” “Our geographical and socio-political context inevitably shapes our responsibilities as designers — influencing how we think about space-making and the materials we choose,” he said. By posing this question, he invited participants to examine how the sense of belonging is defined, whether “here” is determined by political boundaries or by the deeper, more enduring contours of culture and identity. Speaking on materiality, award-winning green architect Rizvi Hassan remarked that it is much like cooking — and that, like any good chef, architects should feel free to use all the ingredients available to them. Shamsul Wares, a trailblazer of contemporary Bangladeshi architecture and an eminent art critic, reflected on how modern architecture’s obsession with efficiency has fallen short, arguing that true value lies in quality and the poetic dimension of space. “Architecture is about designing experience,” he said, highlighting light as both phenomenon and material. Wares urged architects to learn from modernity’s mistakes while considering the body, soul, and society in their work. “All art wants to be poetry. Poetry wants to be music. And music ultimately wants to be spirituality,” he concluded. The event’s guest of honour, Architect Fawad Suhail Abbasi, president of the Institute of Architects, Pakistan (IAP), reflected on how the day’s discussion prompted him to reassess his own practice. With his firm long focusing on brick and sustainable architectural practice, he realised that one cannot overlook the foundational lessons inherited from peers and mentors. He emphasised the importance of finding the mentor within oneself, following that inner direction, and discovering one’s own architectural path, much like the evolving journey of Bangladeshi architects today. After a break for prayer and lunch, a second panel discussion on design, dialogue, and direction in shaping habitat brought together local architects and academics. The discussion highlighted how governments worldwide often overlook the realities of architectural practice — advising against costly materials without recognising that every material has its place when used appropriately. One panellist noted that while academic curricula aligned with the SDGs have expanded, they fail to create responsible citizens who can truly improve the city and country. The day concluded with the IAB Induction Ceremony 2025, welcoming its new fellows and members. Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, conveyed his heartfelt congratulations virtually, noting that one of the year’s first significant milestones was the unification of the Architects’ Association of South Asia. With representatives from seven countries coming together, he emphasised that this collaboration would strengthen knowledge exchange, professional cooperation, and a sense of fraternity among architects across the region — particularly as many of their challenges remain shared. Written by Fariha Hossain
IAB Build Expo, ArchSummit See Vibrant Participation of Architects on Day 2
Day two of the global events of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB) — the IAB Build Expo 2025 and Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 — saw vibrant participation from architects, designers, academics, and industry leaders from home and abroad. While the ArchSummit hosted curated seminars and panel discussions for registered participants, addressing key issues within the contemporary architectural landscape, the IAB Build Expo — the country’s largest exhibition of building materials and construction innovations — remained open to all visitors. Held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC) in the capital alongside the expo, IAB launched Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 under the theme “Crafting Space, Shaping Habitat.” The three-day event, running from December 11 to 13, brought together global and local experts from various fields to engage in dialogue on the future of Asia’s built environment. The ground floor of BCFCC hosted a lively exhibition where leading brands showcased their latest products and innovations, allowing visitors to explore advancements that support stronger, safer, and more sustainable construction. The second floor featured a dedicated ArchSummit seminar hall, with adjacent corridors displaying award-winning architectural projects from Bangladesh, creating a well-curated and dynamic event overall. Architect Rashed Chowdhury, a practising architect and founder of Dehsar Works (DW), opened the second day’s roundtable discussion on the “Poetics of Crafting Spaces” with a fundamental question: “Where is here?” “Our geographical and socio-political context inevitably shapes our responsibilities as designers — influencing how we think about space-making and the materials we choose,” he said. By posing this question, he invited participants to examine how the sense of belonging is defined, whether “here” is determined by political boundaries or by the deeper, more enduring contours of culture and identity. Speaking on materiality, award-winning green architect Rizvi Hassan remarked that it is much like cooking — and that, like any good chef, architects should feel free to use all the ingredients available to them. Shamsul Wares, a trailblazer of contemporary Bangladeshi architecture and an eminent art critic, reflected on how modern architecture’s obsession with efficiency has fallen short, arguing that true value lies in quality and the poetic dimension of space. “Architecture is about designing experience,” he said, highlighting light as both phenomenon and material. Wares urged architects to learn from modernity’s mistakes while considering the body, soul, and society in their work. “All art wants to be poetry. Poetry wants to be music. And music ultimately wants to be spirituality,” he concluded. The event’s guest of honour, Architect Fawad Suhail Abbasi, president of the Institute of Architects, Pakistan (IAP), reflected on how the day’s discussion prompted him to reassess his own practice. With his firm long focusing on brick and sustainable architectural practice, he realised that one cannot overlook the foundational lessons inherited from peers and mentors. He emphasised the importance of finding the mentor within oneself, following that inner direction, and discovering one’s own architectural path, much like the evolving journey of Bangladeshi architects today. After a break for prayer and lunch, a second panel discussion on design, dialogue, and direction in shaping habitat brought together local architects and academics. The discussion highlighted how governments worldwide often overlook the realities of architectural practice — advising against costly materials without recognising that every material has its place when used appropriately. One panellist noted that while academic curricula aligned with the SDGs have expanded, they fail to create responsible citizens who can truly improve the city and country. The day concluded with the IAB Induction Ceremony 2025, welcoming its new fellows and members. Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, conveyed his heartfelt congratulations virtually, noting that one of the year’s first significant milestones was the unification of the Architects’ Association of South Asia. With representatives from seven countries coming together, he emphasised that this collaboration would strengthen knowledge exchange, professional cooperation, and a sense of fraternity among architects across the region — particularly as many of their challenges remain shared. Written by Fariha Hossain
Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 Begins Alongside the IAB Build Expo 2025
The Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB) inaugurated the Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 today, December 11. This year’s theme, “Crafting Space, Shaping Habitat,” sets the stage for a grand celebration of architecture, education, profession and practice, ideas, innovation, and excellence. Running in parallel with the Summit, IAB also launched the IAB Build Expo 2025, the country’s largest exhibition of building materials and construction innovations. Both events will continue until December 13 at the Bangladesh China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC). The Summit is open exclusively to registered participants, while the Expo is open to all visitors. This year’s Summit has been carefully planned with a distinguished lineup of renowned international and national speakers, along with a range of enriching programmes, including an exhibition of award-winning architectural works, roundtable discussions, a young citizens’ painting competition, a photography competition, and exciting cultural events for registered participants. Participants will also have the opportunity to attend the Student Forum, Youth Forum, and plenary sessions, where esteemed speakers will share their ideas, design philosophies, and professional insights throughout the three-day event. Day One began with the Student Forum, featuring a quiz and debate competition, and included the Summit and Build Expo Inauguration Ceremony. Other attractions include the Open Photography Competition, Young Citizens’ Painting Competition, and Public Exhibition on Architecture. The Young Painting Exhibition features curated artworks submitted by students from Classes 6 to 10. The jury panel for the selection included Architect Rafiq Azam, artist Afzal Hossain, and Farida Zaman. The theme of the architectural works exhibition, PEOPLE | PLACE | PRESENCE, celebrates architecture that shapes communities, responds to context, and defines presence through space. The exhibition showcases curated works selected from project submissions in the following categories: Internationally Awarded Projects (2024–2025) from Bangladesh IAB & BERGER Award Projects (last cycle) Public Projects (nationwide) Projects Located in Old Dhaka The project selection team comprised Dr. Abu Sayeed M Ahmed, Ar. Khan Md. Mahfuzul Hug Zaglul, Ar. Nowajish Mahbub, Dr. Khurshid Zabin Hossain Taufique, and Prof. Zainab Faruqui Ali. The ArchSummit and Build Expo aim to provide a platform for architects, students, industry professionals, and the public to explore architecture, innovation, and the future of the built environment in Bangladesh. Written By Tasmiah Chowdhury
Bangladesh: Asia’s Next Trade Powerhouse
Bangladesh is quietly rewriting its economic story. Once known primarily for its ready-made garments, the country is now emerging as a diversified trade hub in Asia. Its export basket is expanding—and so is its global relevance. Earnings from exports have always been the nation’s driving force, and the last fiscal year was no different. Apparels played a dominant role, earning $48 billion, while other sectors also expanded their global reach. “Bangladesh’s export basket did not widen overnight—it was hard-won,” said Moynul Islam, president of the Bangladesh Ceramic Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BCMEA). “And now Bangladesh is home to a vibrant young population—more active and intelligent than their predecessors,” said Islam, who also serves as vice chairman of Monno Group. “From ceramics to garments, pharmaceuticals to electronics, this generational shift is redefining the business landscape and accelerating new export frontiers, positioning Bangladesh as one of Asia’s most promising investment and trade destinations,” he added. RMG : The Backbone of Bangladesh’s Trade Garments remain Bangladesh’s strongest export pillar, contributing over $39 billion in FY2024-25 knitwear and woven categories combined. Knitwear alone earned $21.1 billion, while woven garments brought in $18.1 billion, according to data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). The sector’s strength lies in its scale and adaptability. Bangladesh retained its position as the world’s second-largest apparel exporter in 2024, as confirmed by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). Exports to non-traditional markets are rising, and shipments to the USA grew by 29 percent between January and April 2025. Yet, the industry faces headwinds. Rising production costs, energy inefficiencies, and compliance pressures are squeezing margins. Extortion in industrial belts and loan defaults among top exporters have also raised concerns, as noted by Bangladesh Bank. To stay competitive, the sector is embracing green manufacturing and automation. Over 260 factories are now LEED-certified, and green factories enjoy tax incentives and higher buyer preference. With continued investment in sustainability and worker welfare, RMG is poised to remain Bangladesh’s trade anchor. Home Textile: The Quiet Climber Once a niche category, home textiles have become Bangladesh’s second-largest textile export segment. The sector continued growing despite global challenges, earning $871 million in the last fiscal year. The rise of wellness living and interior-focused consumption has boosted demand for bed linens, curtains, and towels. Bangladesh’s manufacturers are responding with eco-friendly fabrics and design-led collections. However, the sector remains vulnerable to tariff uncertainties, especially in the US market. To mitigate this, the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) recommends diversifying export destinations and investing in design innovation. With stable growth and rising global demand for sustainable home goods, Bangladesh’s home textile sector is quietly climbing the ranks. Leather and Leathergoods: A Legacy in Transition Bangladesh’s leather sector has shown resilient performance, earning over $1 billion annually since FY2018-19. Once hailed as the country’s second-largest export earner, the sector has struggled with environmental compliance and infrastructure bottlenecks. Shipments of leather and leathergoods have slowed due to delays in setting up the Central Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) in Savar, said Arifur Rahman Chowdhury, general manager of ABC Footwear Industries Ltd, a concern of Abedin Group. “Without the CETP, many tanneries fail to meet global environmental standards, particularly the Leather Working Group (LWG) certification required by most European buyers,” he noted. Chowdhury added that the CETP’s completion would resolve nearly 80% of the sector’s challenges. Still, there is hope. According to the Leather Goods and Footwear Manufacturers & Exporters Association of Bangladesh (LFMEAB), 80 percent of exports go to just 10 countries—highlighting the potential for market expansion. With renewed focus on compliance and branding, leather could reclaim its place as a premium export. Frozen and Live Fish: The Blue Economy Awakens Bangladesh’s quiet revolution in aquaculture has made it a regional leader in sustainable fish farming. The country’s fisheries sector earned around half a billion US dollars in the last fiscal year, reflecting steady demand for shrimp, pangasius, and tilapia. Bangladesh Bank and the Ministry of Fisheries are working on improving traceability and certification standards. Yet, export volumes remain modest due to quality inconsistencies and limited cold-chain infrastructure. With rising global interest in clean protein and sustainable seafood, Bangladesh’s fish exports could scale rapidly—if supported by investment in logistics and branding. Empowering smallholder farmers with training, digital tools, and access to finance could unlock further growth. Strengthening community-based hatcheries and eco-friendly practices would ensure sustainability, while coordinated branding could position Bangladesh as a trusted global seafood supplier. Agricultural Commodities: A Sleeping Giant Agricultural exports brought in just over $1 billion in FY2024-25, led by fruits, vegetables, and processed foods. Mangoes, in particular, saw a rebound thanks to improved quality and packaging. However, the sector suffers from fragmented supply chains and slow policy support. Export growth has been inconsistent, and agricultural products face steep competition from regional players. The Ministry of Agriculture and EPB are now focusing on diaspora-driven demand and organic certification. Digital platforms for farm-to-market linkages, real-time price data, and quality monitoring could reduce inefficiencies and empower growers. Strategic partnerships with private investors and international buyers would further enhance competitiveness, ensuring that Bangladesh’s produce earns recognition in premium global markets and that agri-exports become a major growth engine. Pharmaceuticals: The Next Frontier Bangladesh now exports medicines to more than 160 countries after meeting 98 percent of its domestic demand, including shipments to highly regulated markets in Europe and North America. Pharmaceutical exports have nearly doubled in recent years to about $215 million, driven by WHO-compliant manufacturing facilities and competitively priced generic formulations. According to Md Zakir Hossain, secretary general of the Bangladesh Association of Pharmaceutical Industries (BAPI), exports could have easily surpassed the one-billion-dollar mark if not for a series of global setbacks, including the Covid-19 pandemic, the Ukraine–Russia war, and the ongoing devaluation of the Taka against
IAB Build Expo, ArchSummit See Vibrant Participation of Architects on Day 2
Day two of the global events of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB) — the IAB Build Expo 2025 and Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 — saw vibrant participation from architects, designers, academics, and industry leaders from home and abroad. While the ArchSummit hosted curated seminars and panel discussions for registered participants, addressing key issues within the contemporary architectural landscape, the IAB Build Expo — the country’s largest exhibition of building materials and construction innovations — remained open to all visitors. Held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC) in the capital alongside the expo, IAB launched Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 under the theme “Crafting Space, Shaping Habitat.” The three-day event, running from December 11 to 13, brought together global and local experts from various fields to engage in dialogue on the future of Asia’s built environment. The ground floor of BCFCC hosted a lively exhibition where leading brands showcased their latest products and innovations, allowing visitors to explore advancements that support stronger, safer, and more sustainable construction. The second floor featured a dedicated ArchSummit seminar hall, with adjacent corridors displaying award-winning architectural projects from Bangladesh, creating a well-curated and dynamic event overall. Architect Rashed Chowdhury, a practising architect and founder of Dehsar Works (DW), opened the second day’s roundtable discussion on the “Poetics of Crafting Spaces” with a fundamental question: “Where is here?” “Our geographical and socio-political context inevitably shapes our responsibilities as designers — influencing how we think about space-making and the materials we choose,” he said. By posing this question, he invited participants to examine how the sense of belonging is defined, whether “here” is determined by political boundaries or by the deeper, more enduring contours of culture and identity. Speaking on materiality, award-winning green architect Rizvi Hassan remarked that it is much like cooking — and that, like any good chef, architects should feel free to use all the ingredients available to them. Shamsul Wares, a trailblazer of contemporary Bangladeshi architecture and an eminent art critic, reflected on how modern architecture’s obsession with efficiency has fallen short, arguing that true value lies in quality and the poetic dimension of space. “Architecture is about designing experience,” he said, highlighting light as both phenomenon and material. Wares urged architects to learn from modernity’s mistakes while considering the body, soul, and society in their work. “All art wants to be poetry. Poetry wants to be music. And music ultimately wants to be spirituality,” he concluded. The event’s guest of honour, Architect Fawad Suhail Abbasi, president of the Institute of Architects, Pakistan (IAP), reflected on how the day’s discussion prompted him to reassess his own practice. With his firm long focusing on brick and sustainable architectural practice, he realised that one cannot overlook the foundational lessons inherited from peers and mentors. He emphasised the importance of finding the mentor within oneself, following that inner direction, and discovering one’s own architectural path, much like the evolving journey of Bangladeshi architects today. After a break for prayer and lunch, a second panel discussion on design, dialogue, and direction in shaping habitat brought together local architects and academics. The discussion highlighted how governments worldwide often overlook the realities of architectural practice — advising against costly materials without recognising that every material has its place when used appropriately. One panellist noted that while academic curricula aligned with the SDGs have expanded, they fail to create responsible citizens who can truly improve the city and country. The day concluded with the IAB Induction Ceremony 2025, welcoming its new fellows and members. Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, conveyed his heartfelt congratulations virtually, noting that one of the year’s first significant milestones was the unification of the Architects’ Association of South Asia. With representatives from seven countries coming together, he emphasised that this collaboration would strengthen knowledge exchange, professional cooperation, and a sense of fraternity among architects across the region — particularly as many of their challenges remain shared. Written by Fariha Hossain
