In-house Seminar on 24 December 2025- Md Rafid Abrab Miah

The Dual Imperative: Transformative Potential of RCEP and IPEF for Bangladesh in the Era of Geo-Economic Rivalry

Presenter: Md. Rafid Abrab Miah, Research Officer

Overview

In the context of intensifying geo-economic rivalry among major global powers, Bangladesh faces both opportunities and challenges in navigating an increasingly fragmented global trade architecture. This in-house proposal presentation examines the transformative potential of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) for Bangladesh’s economic future.

The presentation argues that RCEP and IPEF should not be viewed as competing options, but rather as complementary strategic pathways that can support Bangladesh’s long-term goals of export diversification, foreign direct investment (FDI) attraction, supply chain integration, and sustainable development.

Key Focus Areas

• Geo-Economic Rivalry and Trade Realignment:
  Analysis of how major power competition is reshaping regional trade, investment flows, and economic governance in the Indo-Pacific.
• RCEP and Bangladesh:
  Assessment of potential gains from RCEP accession, including enhanced market access, participation in regional value chains, and improved investment prospects.
• IPEF and Bangladesh:
  Examination of IPEF’s role in promoting trade facilitation, digital economy standards, supply chain resilience, and green growth opportunities.
• Strategic Complementarity:
  Evaluation of how Bangladesh can leverage IPEF-driven regulatory and standards upgrading to prepare for deeper integration with RCEP economies.

Policy Relevance

The presentation highlights the importance of strategic hedging, domestic capacity building, and proactive trade diplomacy. It underscores the need for:

• Evidence-based evaluation of RCEP accession,
• Active engagement in IPEF pillars aligned with national priorities,
• Institutional reforms to enhance competitiveness and resilience.

Conclusion

Positioned at the crossroads of major economic initiatives, Bangladesh has a unique opportunity to turn geo-economic rivalry into a catalyst for transformation. Strategic engagement with both RCEP and IPEF can help Bangladesh secure sustainable growth, strengthen its global economic standing, and advance its development aspirations in a rapidly evolving international order.