Survey of Enterprises in the Auto-Parts Sector in Bangladesh (2003)

The assignment involved conducting a survey of enterprises in Bangladesh’s automotive parts sector for the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the World Trade Organization’s International Trade Centre (WTO–ITC), Geneva, Switzerland. The study aimed to assess the demand and supply conditions of the local auto-parts market and identify opportunities and challenges affecting the development and competitiveness of the industry.

YC collected and analyzed primary and secondary data to examine the industry’s business environment, market conditions, and operational challenges. The research included reviewing relevant policy documents, conducting key informant interviews, and gathering business information to understand the factors influencing the growth of local auto-parts enterprises.

The assignment also examined the policies and regulatory framework governing the auto-parts sector. Particular attention was given to identifying regulatory barriers, business constraints, and challenges associated with establishing and expanding auto-parts manufacturing enterprises in Bangladesh.

YC further analyzed business and export market information to identify potential opportunities for local enterprises to improve their competitiveness and access international markets. The findings helped provide insights into the market conditions and constraints affecting the development of the domestic auto-parts industry.

As part of the assignment, YC organized local companies to participate in the Buyer–Seller Meeting 2003 in Singapore, organized by ITC–WTO/UNCTAD. This initiative supported engagement between Bangladeshi enterprises and international buyers, enabling local businesses to explore potential commercial partnerships and export opportunities.

The assignment was implemented by a team comprising M. Zakir Hossain as Study Coordinator, Mir Ashraf Ali as Field Manager, and three Field Investigators. The principal outputs included an assessment of the auto-parts sector’s demand and supply conditions, policy and regulatory environment, business obstacles, and export market opportunities, along with support for local companies’ participation in the international Buyer–Seller Meeting.

Assignment Details
Client: UNCTAD–WTO (ITC), Geneva, Switzerland
Project Location: Dhaka, Bangladesh
Duration: 5 months (May–August 2003, as provided in the assignment details)
Total Staff-Months: 3
Senior Professional Staff: M. Zakir Hossain (Study Coordinator), Mir Ashraf Ali (Field Manager), and three Field Investigators