The government has approved the formation of a national taskforce to develop Bangladesh's semiconductor sector, which will be led by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida).

This landmark initiative aims to enhance the country's expertise in chip design, testing, and assembly, capitalising on its strategic location, competitive labour costs, and skilled workforce, according to a letter issued by the press wing of the Chief Adviser's Office.

"Bangladesh's position in the Asia-Pacific supply chain and its young talent pool make it a key player for global semiconductor growth," said Ashik Chowdhury, executive chairman of Bida and Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (Beza).

The 13-member taskforce will address policy gaps, recommend incentives, and identify immediate opportunities to attract international investment.

It is tasked with presenting actionable outcomes by January's end.

Prominent members include Mohammed Enayetur Rahman, CEO of Ulka Semi, and Istak Ahmmed, chairman of Prime Silicon Technology (BD) Ltd.

Additional experts include Prof Dr ABM Harun-ur-Rashid from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology; Maj Gen Md Nasim Parvez of Military Institute of Science and Technology, and global semiconductor specialists like Mustafiz Choudhury of Silicon Valley.

The taskforce's member secretary, Nahian Rahman Rochi of Bida, will coordinate the initiatives to ensure timely and impactful results.

This approval signals a pivotal moment for Bangladesh in establishing itself as an emerging player in the global semiconductor industry.