Experts call for stronger IP framework as Bangladesh post-LDC graduation
Stakeholders urge institutional reforms to protect industries.
Experts and policymakers have called for a stronger legal and institutional framework to protect intellectual property (IP) as Bangladesh prepares to navigate the challenges of its graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status.
They made the call today (21 September) at a focus group discussion titled Industrial Shift in the Post-LDC Era: Strategies for IPR Issues of Key Industries, jointly organised by the Economic Relations Division (ERD) and the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI).
Participants said the post-graduation environment would create both risks and opportunities for major sectors, including pharmaceuticals, ready-made garments, information technology and agriculture, making stronger intellectual property rights (IPR) protection increasingly important.
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ERD Secretary Md Shahriar Kader Siddiky, who attended the event as chief guest, stressed the need to strengthen institutional capacity and statutory frameworks to address emerging IP challenges.
He also called for targeted support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which may face greater challenges in navigating the evolving intellectual property regime.
Siddiky said the government already allocates funds for research, but weak coordination limits their effective use.
He said the government is working to address the coordination gaps while also advancing the digitalisation of public services.
DCCI President Taskin Ahmed highlighted procedural delays and policy gaps as major obstacles to effective IP protection.
He proposed modernising IP offices, establishing specialised IP tribunals in Dhaka and Chattogram, and introducing an automated system for trademark registration.
He also called for broader industry-specific awareness programmes so businesses can better understand and protect their intellectual property rights.
