By Md. Liton Ahmed
President, U.S. Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (USBCCI)

In politics, symbolism matters. But in governance, timing matters even more.

For Bangladesh, the first 120 days of a newly elected government will not simply mark a transition of power — they will set the direction for the country’s next five years. This early period will influence domestic confidence, investor sentiment, and how the international community interprets Bangladesh’s policy priorities and economic strategy.

For a fast-growing, export-driven economy navigating post-pandemic recovery, global geopolitical shifts, and its graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, early policy clarity is not optional. It is essential.

A Critical Signal to Markets and Citizens

Markets respond quickly to uncertainty. Investors — both domestic and international — look for consistency, predictability, and evidence of structural reform. The first 120 days of a government send powerful signals about fiscal discipline, inflation management, exchange rate stability, and regulatory transparency.

Bangladesh’s macroeconomic fundamentals remain resilient. However, like many emerging economies, the country faces several pressures:

• Currency volatility

• Global supply chain disruptions

• Energy price fluctuations

• Tightening global financial conditions

Addressing these challenges requires decisive and coordinated action from the very beginning. Clear economic messaging builds credibility. Delays, on the other hand, erode confidence and slow investment momentum.

Reform Must Move Beyond Rhetoric

Election campaigns often highlight growth, job creation, and anti-corruption commitments. The real test begins when governance starts. The first 120 days should demonstrate visible progress in key areas such as:

• Administrative modernization and expansion of digital governance

• Regulatory simplification to improve ease of doing business

• Strong anti-corruption enforcement mechanisms

• Fiscal prudence combined with targeted development spending

Structural reform cannot wait for political comfort. Early momentum creates trust, and trust fuels long-term economic stability.

Employment and the Youth Dividend

Bangladesh holds a significant demographic advantage with its young and dynamic workforce. But demographic opportunity can quickly turn into economic strain if employment generation does not keep pace.

Early policy initiatives supporting SMEs, startups, export diversification, and technology-driven industries can unlock sustainable growth. The private sector is ready to partner with the government, but it requires a stable, transparent, and supportive policy environment.

Investing in skills, innovation, and entrepreneurship within the first months of governance will determine how effectively Bangladesh leverages its youth dividend in the coming years.

The Diaspora and Global Investor Confidence

From the perspective of the U.S. Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (USBCCI), there is strong and growing interest among Non-Resident Bangladeshis and international investors to expand engagement with Bangladesh.

However, capital flows toward stability and clarity.

A transparent regulatory environment, predictable tax policies, and efficient institutional processes during the government’s early months can significantly strengthen diaspora investment and foreign direct investment.

The world is watching Bangladesh — not with skepticism, but with cautious optimism.

A Defining Moment for Bangladesh’s Economic Future

The first 120 days are not symbolic milestones. They are foundational. They determine whether a government governs with urgency or hesitation, clarity or ambiguity, reform or inertia.

Bangladesh stands at a pivotal stage in its economic evolution. With strategic leadership, disciplined policymaking, and institutional accountability, the country can enhance its global competitiveness and secure long-term economic stability.

The coming months will decide whether Bangladesh accelerates confidently into its next development phase — or slows under the weight of missed opportunities.

The direction will be set early.
And the impact will last for years.