Govt working to transform BD into innovation-driven economy: Faqir Mahbub

He said work is underway to develop high-tech sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI), advanced chip design and bioelectronics, to achieve that goal.

"Bangladesh will establish itself not only as a technology user but also as a country that innovates and manufactures technology," he said.

Faqir Mahbub, also Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology minister, made the remarks while addressing as the chief guest a discussion titled "Bangladesh Deep-Tech Future" on the second day of the two-day National Semiconductor Symposium and BEAR Summit 2026 at the Novo Theatre in Tejgaon here, said a PID release.

He called for giving importance to the "Made in Bangladesh" brand in the innovation and export of technology products and technology services in the future.

Assuring continued support for the development of the semiconductor and deep-tech sectors, he said the country's youth are capable of leading these sectors and the government would stand beside them through innovation, research and policy support.

The minister said the BEAR Summit has proved that Bangladesh is not alone, as leading global technology companies, universities, industry leaders, expatriate Bangladeshis and experts are joining the country's efforts.

"So this is not just a conference; it is the beginning of a movement," he said.

Addressing the business leaders present at the programme, the minister assured them that the current government is highly business-friendly.

"The government is beside you whenever needed. It will do everything necessary to create business opportunities and accelerate the country's technological advancement," he said.

At the programme, Senior Vice President of Purdue University Professor Dimitrios Peroulis presented the keynote paper at the Global Academic Plenary Session.

Among others, Science and Technology Secretary Md Anwar Hossain, Purdue University Professor and Chief Architect of Silicon River Bangladesh Professor Mohammad Mostafa Hossain, and Director General of the Novo Theatre Mohammad Mizanur Rahman Bhuiyan were present, reports BSS.