Bangladesh is pursuing an export-oriented industrialization with its key export sectors including textiles, shipbuilding, fish and seafood, jute and leather goods.

In 2016 Bangladesh’s exports grew at 7.1 per cent, driven largely by exports of readymade garment products.

However last fiscal Bangladesh’s export growth hit a 15-year low. Export earnings fell short of 5.85 per cent from the target.

The aim is to raise export earnings to 60 billion dollars by 2021.

Products will be exported at competitive prices. Steps will be taken to upgrade testing facilities to global standards. Efforts will be made to encourage the use of state-of-the-art, appropriate and environment- friendly technology, produce high value added exportable products and improve designs of products.

The export policy will remain in force till June 30, 2018. The policy will be applicable in all places in Bangladesh except export processing zones.

Updated information will be disseminated to exporters on export markets. They will be provided technology to facilitate diversification of exports. Workers’ rights will be given importance including workplace safety. Financial incentives will be provided to exporters including export credit at comparatively lower interest rates.

Initiatives will be taken for getting duty-free market access to developed and developing countries, including the United States.