Creative economy needs policy, tax reforms to unlock Tk800cr plan: Stakeholders

Stakeholders have called for policy, tax and legal reforms to unlock the potential of Bangladesh's creative economy, saying the sector could become a major source of employment if longstanding barriers across film, OTT, publishing, arts and theatre are addressed.

They made the remarks at a discussion titled "Today's Agenda: Creative Economy - Slogan or Potential?" organised by the Power and Participation Research Centre (PPRC) in Dhaka today (July 11).

The session was moderated by PPRC Executive Chairman Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman.

Speakers said Bangladesh has no shortage of creative talent, but inadequate policy support, an unfavourable tax structure, weak copyright protection and limited infrastructure have prevented the sector from emerging as a significant economic force.

The discussion highlighted that the national budget for FY2026-27 allocated a Tk800 crore action plan for the creative economy for the first time. The initiative includes a direct allocation of Tk300 crore and plans to mobilise another Tk500 crore from Bangladesh Bank's corporate social responsibility (CSR) fund.

The programme aims to increase the creative sector's contribution to GDP, generate around 5 lakh jobs and establish the 'Created in Bangladesh' brand.

Filmmaker and entrepreneur Tanim Noor said a separate tax regime is needed to encourage investment in the creative sector. Tax incentives for the film industry would attract new investors and boost local film production, he said.

Chorki Chief Executive Officer Redwan Rony said the film and OTT industries need better infrastructure, taxation and licensing. He added that local OTT platforms face regulatory disadvantages due to the lack of a clear policy, while international platforms earn revenue from Bangladeshi audiences without the same obligations.

Bengal Foundation Director General Lubna Nahid Chowdhury said Bangladesh has abundant creative talent but lacks an environment that supports its growth and commercial success. She stressed the need to recognise both artists and the wider creative workforce.

Playwright and creative director Bakar Bakul said theatre and the arts are still not widely seen as economic products in Bangladesh, with many practitioners relying on passion rather than sustainable income. He called for proper recognition of artists' labour to build a professional creative industry.

University Press Limited Managing Director Mahrukh Mohiuddin said the publishing industry has long been neglected. She called for modernising the national book policy, promoting Bangladeshi books abroad and enforcing copyright laws to tackle digital and print piracy.

Classical Handmade Products Managing Director Md Tauhid Bin Abdus Salam said stronger quality control, certification and branding are essential for Bangladesh's handicraft industry to remain competitive in international markets.

In his closing remarks, Zillur Rahman said developing the creative economy requires not only infrastructure but also an effective policy framework.

He called for reforms in taxation, copyright protection, royalty distribution and licensing, alongside coordinated efforts by the government and industry stakeholders.