# BIDA, ADB, and SANEM Launch Survey to Map Bangladesh's Investment Landscape *A collaborative effort by BIDA, ADB, and SANEM seeks to create a unified database of investment information and identify key sectors for growth.* August 20, 2026 ยท business The Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the South Asian Network on Economic Modeling (SANEM), has initiated a detailed survey aimed at mapping investment opportunities, industrial potential, and business challenges across Bangladesh. The survey was discussed at a workshop held at Hotel Agrabad in Chattogram, part of a series of eight divisional workshops designed to gather information directly from investors, businesses, chambers, and other stakeholders. Funded by ADB with technical support from SANEM, the BIDA-led survey aims to create an updated and consolidated database of domestic and foreign investments. This database will help identify priority sectors and inform evidence-based policymaking. Dr. Selim Raihan, Executive Director of SANEM and a Dhaka University Professor, emphasized the importance of reliable information for sound policymaking and effective investment promotion. Currently, information on businesses and investors is scattered among various government agencies, investment promotion bodies, chambers, and business associations. A unified database would enable policymakers to identify priority sectors, understand industrial developments, and determine areas requiring greater support. Zubayer Hossen, SANEM Programme Director, noted that the survey will collect data on establishments, employment, investment, and challenges faced by investors. An initial mapping based on information from BIDA, BEZA, BEPZA, and Bangladesh Bank revealed a significant geographical concentration of investment information in Dhaka and Chattogram, with other divisions, including Rangpur, being relatively underrepresented. The survey aims to help BIDA regularly maintain investor records, develop investor profiles, and assess the effectiveness of existing policies and services on the ground. Md Humayun Kabir, BIDA Executive Member (Additional Secretary), highlighted the importance of a grassroots-level survey in identifying area-specific investment potential and ensuring that regional realities are reflected in policymaking. He stressed the need for a cultural shift as Bangladesh transitions from an agrarian economy to an industrial society, emphasizing the importance of focusing on skills rather than merely formal qualifications. Kabir also underscored the need for improving investment facilitation and strengthening the One Stop Service (OSS). He referred to the government's Invest Bangladesh initiative, noting that investment-related services and stakeholders need to be brought under a more coordinated framework. Export diversification, policy continuity, regular research, and stronger academia-industry linkages are also essential for sustainable investment-led growth. Tasnim Alam, ADB Bangladesh Public Sector Economist, pointed out that Bangladesh's upcoming graduation from the least developed country (LDC) category makes it particularly important to conduct a proper needs assessment during the remaining preparatory period. Improving the ease of doing business should be a priority, and Bangladesh needs to strengthen its capacity to use data, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies for investment and policymaking. Mohammed Amirul Haque, President of the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stressed the need to develop skilled manpower, infrastructure, and technology-related capabilities, particularly among the younger generation. He also called for greater economic opportunities for women and increased investment in renewable energy, particularly solar power. This comprehensive survey is a significant step towards addressing these challenges and fostering a more conducive environment for investment in Bangladesh. ## Sources - BSS --- Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/business/bida-adb-sanem-launch-industrial-survey-bangladesh