WHY 'LOOK AFRICA'? AN ANALYSIS OF ECONOMIC POTENTIAL FOR BANGLADESH

This article assesses the economic case for Bangladesh to deepen trade and investment ties with African economies circa 2010. It identifies sectors with mutual gains—textiles and apparel value chains, pharmaceuticals, light engineering, leather goods and agro-processing—and reviews tariff preferences, logistics corridors and standards compliance that shape market entry. The paper analyses risks and opportunities in selected African regions, considering macro trends such as urbanisation, consumer growth and infrastructure expansion. It examines instruments for engagement—trade fairs, EXIM finance, investment treaties, diaspora networks and joint ventures—and highlights the role of quality certification and after-sales services. The argument is that a deliberate “Look Africa” strategy can reduce market concentration risk, raise margins, and embed Bangladesh in emerging South–South production networks.

The body begins with a data snapshot of Africa’s import demand in consumer manufactures and essential inputs, then maps Bangladesh’s comparative advantages and capacity constraints. Section One discusses market access frameworks—AGOA, EAC, ECOWAS and SADC rules—and how Bangladeshi firms can navigate rules of origin and technical standards. Section Two examines logistics: feeder services via Middle Eastern hubs, inland distribution and the business case for regional warehousing. Section Three analyses financing—buyer’s credit, supplier’s credit and risk-mitigation through export credit insurance. Section Four presents case studies on apparel and pharma generics, detailing registration, packaging and pharmacovigilance requirements. Section Five proposes a government–industry platform for trade promotion, skills and regulatory diplomacy. The conclusion outlines a phased plan to pilot in a few gateway markets, build brand trust and scale through partnerships, creating durable commercial footprints.