Publication: Leveraging ICT for Growth and Competition in Bangladesh: IT/ITES Industry Development
Date
2009
ISSN
Published
2009
Author(s)
Norbhu, Tenzin
Kharbanda, Mohan
Kuek, Siou Chew
Takagaki, Elli
Hoffman-Kiess, Erika
Abstract
The objective of this study is to assist
Bangladesh in becoming a viable player in the IT/ITES
industry in five years by identifying the strategies,
programs and investments needed in order for the country to
leverage ICT for economic growth and competitiveness, as
well as for social development by increasing gender equality
and youth employment. Why is it important for Bangladesh to
concentrate its efforts in developing the IT/ITES industry?
First of all, industry development is aligned with many of
the goals for Digital Bangladesh as described in the
manifesto, including development of software exports, IT
parks, youth employment, etc. Secondly, the global IT/ITES
is too large to be ignored - leaving a significant untapped
market for which many countries are competing. Beyond direct
economic benefits, IT/ITES growth can generate large-scale
employment. India and the Philippines are established
competitors while China, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Pakistan are
emerging as new threats. To-date, the IT/ITES industry
development activities in Bangladesh, while not without its
successes, generally lacks widely accepted, centralized
leadership or focus. This must change if Bangladesh is going
to mount serious competition for an increase in market share.
Citation
“Norbhu, Tenzin; Kharbanda, Mohan; Kuek, Siou Chew; Takagaki, Elli; Hoffman-Kiess, Erika. 2009. Leveraging ICT for Growth and Competition in Bangladesh : IT/ITES Industry Development. © World Bank, Washington, DC. http://openknowledge.worldbank.org/handle/10986/28249 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO.”