The government has approved the National Logistics Policy 2025, a comprehensive framework aimed at modernising country’s transport and trade systems, enhancing export competitiveness and promoting environmentally sustainable logistics growth.
The approval came during the 47th meeting of Council of Advisers, held at Chief Adviser’s Office on Thursday, with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus in the chair.
“If there is a policy, the government can function effectively; it provides a clear direction. This policy will serve as a crucial guideline for the logistics sector,” said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam at a media briefing held later at the Foreign Service Academy.
Shafiqul Alam said the new policy is expected to accelerate both public and private investment in the logistics sector while attracting greater foreign direct investment (FDI). It will also help make Bangladesh’s exports more competitive compared to rival countries by reducing shipment delays.
“Currently, it can take up to 11 days to export goods through Chattogram Port,” he said. “Once the logistics policy is implemented, the movement and availability of goods will become much faster, the export process will be smoother and foreign investors will find Bangladesh more attractive.”
The approved policy consists of 11 chapters, outlining a long-term plan to prioritise rail and waterways over road transport by 2050, ensuring optimal use of Bangladesh’s 3,000 kilometers of navigable waterways.
It also encourages public-private partnership (PPP) investments, offering a strategic roadmap for building a digital logistics ecosystem that connects customs, shipping and transport data in real time. Exporters will be able to track their shipments digitally, similar to advanced global logistics systems.
Responding to a question, Shafiqul Alam said the Chief Adviser had stressed the importance of infrastructure development without causing harm to rivers.
The logistics policy, he added, incorporates this directive and aligns with the government’s multimodal transport strategy, ensuring efficient coordination between rail, road and river systems.
Chief Adviser’s Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad and Assistant Press Secretary Shuchismita Tithi were also present at the briefing.
SH
