In a concerted effort to accelerate Bangladesh’s export diversification, Prime Bank PLC has formalised a strategic collaboration with Export Sheba. The partnership is aimed at strengthening the country’s export ecosystem by equipping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and emerging exporters with the knowledge, tools, and confidence required to compete in global markets.
The agreement was signed at a ceremony held in Dhaka, where senior representatives from both organisations gathered to mark the beginning of what is expected to be a long-term initiative. The collaboration reflects a shared vision of fostering a more resilient and diversified export base, moving beyond Bangladesh’s traditional reliance on ready-made garments.
At the heart of the partnership lies a comprehensive capacity-building programme. Export Sheba will organise a series of structured training sessions, practical workshops, and tailored advisory services. These initiatives are designed to familiarise entrepreneurs with international trade frameworks, export compliance requirements, logistics management, and market entry strategies. By addressing these critical areas, the programme seeks to reduce operational inefficiencies and enhance export readiness.
A key priority of the initiative is to support non-RMG sectors, which hold significant untapped potential. Industries such as agro-based products, leather goods, handicrafts, and light manufacturing are expected to benefit from the targeted guidance. New exporters, in particular, will receive assistance in navigating complex documentation processes and aligning their operations with international standards.
The agreement was signed by Mr M. Nazeem A. Choudhury, Deputy Managing Director of Prime Bank, and Mr Jahid Hussain, Founder of Export Sheba. Their involvement underscores the strategic importance of the collaboration, not only for the participating organisations but also for the broader national economy.
Prime Bank’s SME TradeFin Centre is set to play a central role in implementing this initiative. By combining financial solutions with advisory support, the bank aims to create an integrated platform that empowers businesses at every stage of their export journey. This holistic approach is expected to improve access to finance while simultaneously enhancing technical expertise among exporters.
Overview of the Partnership
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Participating Entities | Prime Bank PLC and Export Sheba |
| Primary Goal | Strengthen export capabilities of SMEs and new exporters |
| Programme Activities | Training sessions, workshops, advisory services |
| Sectoral Focus | Non-RMG industries and emerging export segments |
| Implementation Hub | Prime Bank SME TradeFin Centre |
| Expected Impact | Greater export diversification and improved global competitiveness |
This strategic alliance highlights the growing importance of knowledge-driven support in export development. By bridging gaps in expertise and compliance, the initiative is expected to pave the way for a more sustainable and inclusive export sector, positioning Bangladesh more strongly in the competitive global marketplace.