Survey of Small and Medium Enterprises in the Information Technology Sector of Bangladesh

The assignment involved conducting a comprehensive survey of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Bangladesh’s information technology (IT) sector for the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the World Trade Organization’s International Trade Centre (WTO–ITC), Geneva, Switzerland. Conducted from May to August 2002, the study aimed to assess the business environment of local IT companies and evaluate their competitiveness and potential for service exports.

YC collected and analyzed primary and secondary data to examine the operational conditions, business capabilities, strengths, and weaknesses of IT enterprises in and around Dhaka. The research also explored factors influencing industry growth and the ability of local companies to compete in domestic and international markets.

The assignment included reviewing relevant policies and assessing the regulatory environment affecting the IT sector. YC conducted key informant interviews and analyzed business information to identify constraints hindering enterprise development, market expansion, and access to international service export opportunities.

YC further assessed the service export capabilities of Bangladeshi IT companies to identify potential opportunities for international market development. The study examined business challenges and supportive measures that could help strengthen the competitiveness of local IT enterprises and expand their participation in the global IT services market.

The research findings were consolidated into a detailed report on Bangladesh’s IT services export capacity and the business environment of local enterprises. The report provided insights into industry strengths, weaknesses, regulatory challenges, and opportunities for improving the international competitiveness of the country’s IT sector.

The assignment was implemented by a team comprising M. Zakir Hossain as Study Coordinator, Rabiul Islam as Field Coordinator, and three Field Investigators. YC’s work contributed to a structured assessment of the local IT industry and its potential to develop a stronger presence in international service markets.

Assignment Details
Client: UNCTAD–WTO (ITC), Geneva, Switzerland
Project Location: Dhaka and surrounding areas, Bangladesh
Duration: 4 months (May–August 2002)
Total Staff-Months: 2
Senior Professional Staff: M. Zakir Hossain (Study Coordinator), Rabiul Islam (Field Coordinator), and three Field Investigators