The manufacturing sector is playing the most significant role in Bangladesh’s economy, according to the latest Economic Performance Index (EPI) analysis for 2025 conducted by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI).
The findings were presented at a ‘Focus Group Discussion on Economic Status Index’ held on Saturday (October 25) at the Dhaka Chamber auditorium in Motijheel. The index provides a quarterly survey on changes and trends in sector-wise economic activities.
The survey indicated that out of the total participating enterprises, the manufacturing sector accounted for 56% of the contribution, while the service sector contributed 44%.
Garments Lead Manufacturing Surge
The DCCI revealed that the manufacturing sector demonstrated a significant stronghold over the national economy. Within this sector, the apparel and ready-made garments (RMG) industry was the most dominant, representing 58.6% of the total manufacturing contribution.
Other key contributors within the manufacturing sector include: Food Products Sector: 13.4%, Textile Sector: 9.3%, Rubber and Plastic Products: 7.7%, Basic Metal Sector: 3.3%, Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals: 2.7%, Leather and Related Products: 2.7%, Other Non-Metallic Mineral Products: 2.2%
Services Sector Highlights
In the service sector, wholesale and retail trade holds the largest share, accounting for 60.2% of the sector’s contribution. This is followed by the real estate sector at 20.8%, and the transport sector at 19%.
Sector stakeholders noted that the steady growth in the apparel and food products sectors is driving the overall industrial sector forward. Furthermore, the dominance of wholesale and retail trade in the service sector suggests an increase in domestic purchasing power within the economy.
DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed delivered the welcome speech at the discussion, while Acting Secretary General Dr. AKM Asaduzzaman Patwary presented the keynote paper. Stakeholders concluded that the balance between the manufacturing and service sectors will help make the economy more diversified and sustainable.
