Bangladesh is a land of vibrant culture and economic dynamism. The country presents a fertile ground for entrepreneurs seeking promising business opportunities. From the bustling streets of Dhaka to the serene landscapes of rural areas, there are diverse sectors primed for innovation and growth. In this article, we explore some of the best business ideas in Bangladesh that hold tremendous potential in the context of the country’s unique economic landscape.
Bangladesh is located in South Asia, sharing borders with India to the west, north, and east, Myanmar (Burma) to the southeast, and the Bay of Bengal to the south. The country has a rich cultural heritage and a diverse landscape, ranging from the lush Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta to the Chittagong Hill Tracts in the southeast. The capital and largest city of Bangladesh is Dhaka.
Bangladesh has seen wide improvements in most economic indicators in the recent past. The future seems even brighter for business ideas in Bangladesh. According to the World Economic Forum, Bangladesh’s GDP growth rate is forecast to be 6.3% in 2024.
Why Start a Business in Bangladesh?
Bangladesh is a good place to start a business both for locals and foreigners. Some of the major reasons for starting a business are listed below:
⇒ Growing Economy
Bangladesh has experienced consistent economic growth in recent years, making it an attractive market for business ventures. The country’s GDP growth reflects a robust and expanding economy.
⇒ Large Consumer Base
With a population exceeding 160 million, Bangladesh offers a sizable consumer market. Entrepreneurs have the opportunity to tap into diverse consumer needs and preferences, creating products or services that cater to a broad demographic.
⇒ Strategic Geographical Location
Bangladesh’s strategic location in South Asia makes it a gateway to regional markets. Businesses established in Bangladesh can benefit from its proximity to major economies like India, China, and Southeast Asian countries, enhancing trade and market reach.
⇒ Government Initiatives
The Bangladeshi government has implemented various pro-business policies and initiatives to encourage entrepreneurship and foreign investment. This includes tax incentives, streamlined regulatory processes, and infrastructure development projects.
⇒ Cost-Effective Labor Force
Bangladesh offers a cost-effective labor force. Hence, it is advantageous for industries that rely on labor-intensive processes. This affordability contributes to the competitiveness of businesses operating in the country.
⇒ Textile and Garment Industry
The textile and garment industry in Bangladesh is one of the largest contributors to the economy. Entrepreneurs in the fashion and apparel sector can benefit from the established supply chains and expertise in this industry.
⇒ Emerging IT Sector
Bangladesh’s Information Technology (IT) sector is rapidly growing, with a pool of skilled professionals. Entrepreneurs in tech-related businesses, such as software development and IT services, can leverage this talent pool.
⇒ Investment Opportunities
Various sectors, including renewable energy, healthcare, education, and infrastructure, present investment opportunities. Entrepreneurs with innovative ideas can find support and opportunities for growth.
⇒ Cultural Diversity
Bangladesh is known for its rich cultural diversity. Businesses that understand and appreciate local culture can connect with consumers more effectively, fostering brand loyalty and market success.
⇒ Rising Middle Class
The country’s expanding middle class is driving increased consumer spending. Entrepreneurs can target this growing demographic with products and services that cater to their evolving needs and aspirations.
⇒ Tourism Potential
Bangladesh’s natural beauty and cultural heritage offer significant tourism potential. Entrepreneurs in the hospitality and tourism industry can explore opportunities to cater to both domestic and international tourists.
45 Small Business Ideas in Bangladesh
1. Fast Food Shop
The people of Bangladesh are great foodies. Their cuisine is also full of variety. There is a good demand for fast food in the urban areas of Bangladesh, especially in the cities of Dhaka and Chittagong.
So, starting a fast food store can be a profitable business in Bangladesh. The location has to be very strategic, which is either in the office areas or in popular residential areas. Keep the standard and quality of your fast food very good. Along with it, you have to ensure prompt and proper service.
2. Start a Blog
There are several successful bloggers in Bangladesh. If you have a penchant for writing in English or Bengali, starting a blog is worth considering. You can make a good profit from the comfort of your home being a blogger. Check our detailed guide on how to start a blog and earn money.
3. Do Small Tasks Online
Several online opportunities can provide some extra money working part-time from home with just a computer and an internet connection. This can be small gigs at Fiverr, Upwork, or sharing your opinions on survey job sites.
4. Dropshipping
The dropshipping business is gradually gaining momentum in Bangladesh. The interesting part of this business is that you can run a product-selling business online without keeping inventories. Check our guide on the steps to start a dropshipping business.
5. Start a Salon Business in Bangladesh
The Salon industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in Bangladesh. You can attract customers of different age profiles with this business idea. Previously it was limited to the rich upper-class people, but now both women and men from all classes of society visit salons for haircuts and beauty treatment.
If you have a passion for beauty and healthcare, consider starting a salon business in Bangladesh. There are many salons in Dhaka. You can think of starting the business in cities like Sylhet, Chittagong, or Cox’s Bazar. Try to be very perfect in your work and use the products of a good brand. Always remember the importance of being perfect and excellent in this beauty business.
6. Coffee Shop
In Bangladesh, the demand for coffee as a hot drink during official meetings or leisure time has increased quite a lot in recent years. The youngsters also prefer coffee shops as their hangout zone.
The effect of inclination toward globalization among the youth has resulted in the preference for coffee in Bangladesh because they consider it a symbol of globalization.
Considering this trend, you can think of a coffee shop business idea in Bangladesh. Find a good location for your coffee shops like close to offices or parks, in shopping malls, or near educational institutions like colleges or universities, etc.
7. Cosmetics Shop
The cosmetics industry is growing very fast in Bangladesh. Most urban girls use one or more types of cosmetics. With a country with a huge population like Bangladesh, this is a demand in large volumes.
Now you can understand the importance of a cosmetics shop as a business idea in Bangladesh. You can sell both imported as well as locally made cosmetics. The imported ones are costlier. You can also opt for an online cosmetics store, that sells all kinds of cosmetics online.
8. Start a Garment Business
Bangladesh is one of the top exporters of garments globally, the garment business is highly profitable here. Both readymade garments, as well as the apparel sector, contribute a lot to the country’s economy.
The garment business has a lot of profit potential in Bangladesh. It will be better if you get training on garments and their business aspects before starting the business.
Apart from a garment store, you can also do a business of garment raw materials and accessories like a needle, buttons, pins, zip, etc required to make garments. You can also do this business online.
9. Furniture Shop
The people of Bangladesh are very fond of furniture, especially wooden furniture. Nowadays, builders also look for furniture to sell furnished houses or apartments.
That is why furniture making or a furniture shop is a good business idea in Bangladesh. If you can make furniture yourself, it is very good. If you can’t, you have to have a good eye and taste for good furniture. Don’t compromise on quality and design. Advertise your shop well. You can also sell furniture online.
10. Professional Service (Training & Consultation)
There are several professional service facilities in Bangladesh. The demand for these kinds of services is increasing with the advancement of the economy.
So, if you are professionally qualified you can think of this business idea in Bangladesh. You can go for Financial consultancy, HR consultancy, and training, Audit service, Risk Management, Engineering Service, etc.
You can also start your computer, IT training, Tax Training, etc. The consultancy can be done individually from home or in a small office. While, for the training part, you need training centers.
11. Virtual Trade
With the widespread use of the internet, virtual trading is becoming more popular in Bangladesh. This is a profitable business idea in Bangladesh if you have a good network and some trusted people on your team.
You can buy crops from districts where production is high and prices are low and sell them in areas where the prices are high. This trading can be done on items like rice, corn, cattle, meat, etc. Remember, you have to keep a close watch on the prices and sell them at the right price to earn profits. You can do this business from home also.
12. Photography
The large population of Bangladesh needs different kinds of photos from school or college admissions to family photos, corporate events to marriage ceremonies.
Marriage photographers are much in demand. If you are good at taking photos, a photography-related business can fetch good profit in Bangladesh. You can advertise your service and excellence through social media like Facebook and Instagram. Remember, try to bring out your creativity and advertise it properly. Highlight your USP too.
13. Security Agency
Big to small offices, housing complexes, and other important places in Bangladesh need security services. Moreover, with different kinds of problems, there is a demand for private security guards.
So, it is a good business idea to start a security agency service in Bangladesh. You have to train your security guards to handle different kinds of situations.
You can start with your local area if you are a city dweller. This will help to spread word-of-mouth publicity. Moreover, you have to advertise through newspapers, radio, TV, flyers, etc.
14. Tourism Business
Bangladesh is a beautiful country full of the natural beauty of hills, beaches, forests, and archaeological sites. There are three World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh- the Sundarbans Mangrove Forests, the ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur, and the historical Mosque in the city of Paharpur.
That is why; tourism is a good business idea in Bangladesh. You can offer customized or conducted tour packages to the tourists including hotel bookings, train or air tickets, etc. You can advertise and take bookings for your tourism service online.
15. Student Counseling
In Bangladesh, the number of people with degrees is increasing, but the standard is not up to the mark. As a result, they are not properly employed either nationally or in the international scenario.
If you are skilled and educated enough, you can think of this business opportunity, which is much needed in Bangladesh. You can start a career counseling service which is very much required to equip the future generation.
16. Electronic Product Shop
With the rapid growth of technology, the demand for electrical and electronic goods has grown worldwide. Bangladesh is no exception in this case.
Therefore, the electronic product shop is a good business idea in Bangladesh. You can sell a variety of products like televisions, refrigerators, Microwave ovens, Air conditioners, and Washing machines to Computers, laptops, tablets, etc. You can take the dealership of renowned companies. Choosing a good retail location for your shop is critical for success in this business.
17. E-Commerce
The E-Commerce business has grown quite a lot in Bangladesh. With better accessibility and more people on the internet, E-Commerce has become a potential business area in Bangladesh. Establishing an online marketplace, catering to the diverse needs of consumers, provides a lucrative opportunity. This includes selling clothing, electronics, and local handmade crafts, tapping into the country’s burgeoning online market.
You can also export and import different items through E-Commerce and make or get the payment. But you have to know the platform very well.
18. YouTube Channel
You can make your own YouTube channel and publicize your product or services. Many Bangladeshi vloggers are very popular on YouTube.
19. Social Media Manager
In the social media revolution of Bangladesh, you can also work as a social media manager, which is much in demand now. You can do this work from home.
Suggested Read: How to be a Freelance Social Media Marketer
20. Courier Service
Despite the growth of online communication, certain documents and things are to be delivered by courier service for prompt and hassle-free delivery.
Bangladesh also has a great demand for courier services. So, you can start your courier service business here. There are a lot of requirements for this business. You have to choose a proper office space, hire good employees, arrange vans, and do the marketing of your service efficiently. But, this is quite a good business idea.
21. Book Store (Also Online)
Bangladeshis are avid book lovers. They prefer books over many things and buy books regularly. This is the reason for you to consider the bookstore as a profitable business idea in Bangladesh.
There are text as well as non-text books, which you can sell in your shop and get a good margin. You can also sell books online for the convenience of readers. If you are technically sound enough, you can develop an app and offer a cheaper option for readers as well as earn from ads.
Read: How to Create an Online Store
22. Mobile & Smartphone Accessories
With the increasing use of mobiles and smartphones in Bangladesh, the demand for mobile phone shops is very high. So, you can start your mobile phone shop in Bangladesh.
You can advertise your shop online. For value addition, you can keep mobile accessories like chargers, earphones, back covers, etc. in your shop, along with a separate section for mobile repair. Your customer base will multiply, as well as your profit.
23. Sell Used Goods
This business has great demand in Bangladesh like in most countries of the world. The range of goods can be from electronic goods to furniture and more.
You can buy goods at a lower price, repair them if needed, and sell them. You can have your website through which you can sell these items or you can give free advertisements on some websites in Bangladesh and sell them using their platforms.
24. Super Shop
A superstore is a one-stop destination for all your grocery and daily needs. The rising number of middle-class people in urban Bangladesh and their lack of time have created a good demand for these kinds of shops.
As a result, this is now a great business idea in Bangladesh. Location is a key factor in this business. Posh residential areas are ideal. You have to maintain a good standard of goods in the shop. Advertise your shop through radio, TV, pamphlets, etc.
25. Toy Shop
Before 2010, the toy industry in Bangladesh was mostly dependent on imported toys, mainly from China. But now, the local toy industries have grown quite large and cater to a large section of the market.
This is a business that can give you a comfortable profit. But you have to select a good location where parents have the affordability to buy toys for their children. Make your shop attractive and advertise through different media.
26. Coaching & Spoken English Classes
The demand for proper guidance and grooming of students is quite high in Bangladesh. So, if you have a sound academic background along with flawless English pronunciation, you can think of coaching and spoken English class, Education always gives good returns. You can start from home and then gradually rent a room for the coaching center and appoint other teachers as and when required.
Agro-Based Business Ideas in Bangladesh
27. Poultry Eggs
The poultry farm is an old concept in Bangladesh. It still has a great demand and a good profit margin. So, this is a good business idea in the agricultural country of Bangladesh. You have to choose a proper site, a good breed of hens, their food, and proper vigilance. But you need good training and knowledge before starting the business.
28. Poultry Broiler
Like any other country, Bangladesh also has a good demand for chicken. This is an extremely lucrative business for you. In this business also, you have to choose a quiet place, high high-yielding variety of birds, a proper poultry house, and a suitable farming system.
29. Fishery
Bangladesh is a riverine and fish-loving country. Almost all water bodies are suitable for the fishery. You can opt for this business idea for greater gains. You have to select a suitable area without many slopes or a tendency to get flood-prone.
It is better if you can construct and design a pond exclusively for your fish farming. Then select your type of fish as per your location and demand. Take good care and feed them well. After collecting the matured fish, sell them at your nearest market or the center of your convenience and profitability.
30. Duck Farming
Duck eggs have more demand in Bangladesh than hen eggs. Its meat is also quite popular. So, this is a good business idea for you. Duck farming is comparatively easier. You need to have a pond or any water body. Then you have to select the breed, feed, shelter, and proper management of their disease if any.
After laying eggs, you have to clean them and pack them well. Remember, there are separate breeds of duck for meat and egg production. So, you have to choose the breed according to your business model.
31. Goat Farming
Goat meat is very popular in Bangladesh. So also the skin of a goat. You can select this business idea for a greater profit with less hassle. You have to follow the steps of choosing the location, breed selection, food, medical care, breeding, and marketing at the right time.
Read: How To Start a Goat Farming Business
You have to vaccinate the goats timely to avoid diseases. Due to their high demand, the marketing of goats is not a difficult job in Bangladesh.
32. Vegetable Farming
People of Bangladesh consume all types of vegetables throughout the year. So, there is a high demand for different kinds of vegetables. You can start your commercial vegetable farming business confidently.
In the vegetable farming business, you have to ensure the sale of your products in the first step, as vegetables are perishable products. Next, select the plot and test the soil. Then, select the crop and begin the cultivation process with proper care and management. Proper advertising is necessary.
33. Fruit Farming
With the advancement of education and awareness, the people of Bangladesh eat more fruits. The main reason is health. This can encourage you to take up this business idea in Bangladesh. The steps you should follow in this business are a selection of sites, selection of required equipment and tools, analysis of the market, cultivation of several fruits, and promotion of the business.
34. Bee Farming
Honey is a valuable food in Bangladesh. This value increases the business prospects of a commercial beekeeping business. You can get a lot of products from bees apart from honey-like beeswax, royal jelly, and pollens which are also marketable.
First of all, you have to select a location for the optimum production of honey. For this business, you need skilled manpower and certain tools for the collection of honey from the beehives. You also need good networking with the people to get the buyers.
35. Dairy Farming
With the growth of the population in Bangladesh, the demand for milk is rising. But the production is not that satisfactory due to several reasons. This can be a good opportunity to take up this business plan and earn profits. You have to be careful and consult experts like agriculturists, veterinary doctors; financial planners, etc.
Next, you have to select the breed, arrange for feeds, do proper waste management, and find the market for your product. Remember, dairy cattle not only produce milk, calves, and meat but also other products like manure, methane, and by-products like leather.
Small Manufacturing Business Ideas in Bangladesh
36. Start a Bakery
There is a considerable demand for bakery items in Bangladesh. Though the market is a little competitive, still there is a wide scope here to make good money out of bakery manufacturing if planned innovatively.
37. Spice Manufacturing
Spice is a regular food item and is widely consumed by most Bangladeshis. You can start a spice manufacturing business on a small scale with limited investment.
38. Disposable Paper Plate
The demand for disposable paper plates has been on the rise for the last few years in Bangladesh and is expected to grow further. You need very little investment and little space to start a paper plate manufacturing business.
39. Hand Sanitizer Manufacturing
After the covid pandemic, there has been a huge growth in the sales of hand sanitizers. If you have the required expertise and knowledge to manufacture hand sanitizers, it is among the most profitable manufacturing business ideas in Bangladesh at present.
40. Face Mask Manufacturing
The same holds for face masks. You need very little investment to manufacture face masks and there is a big domestic market to sell the produce.
Other Lucrative Business Ideas in Bangladesh
41. Mobile App Development
As smartphone usage continues to soar, creating mobile applications tailored to local needs can be a lucrative venture. Apps that facilitate services such as online education, healthcare, or local marketplaces have the potential to make a significant impact.
42. Renewable Energy Solutions
There is a growing emphasis on sustainability. Hence investing in renewable energy solutions is both socially responsible and economically viable. Furthermore, establishing a business centered around solar energy, biogas, or energy-efficient technologies addresses the dual challenge of environmental concerns and energy needs.
43. Waste Management Solutions
In recent years, Bangladesh has been facing environmental challenges. Starting a waste management business can focus on recycling, waste collection, or creating eco-friendly products. This not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also aligns with global trends.
44. Fashion and Apparel Industry
The textile industry has been a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s economy. Creating a niche in the fashion and apparel sector, whether through sustainable fashion lines or unique designs, can find a ready market both locally and internationally.
45. IT and Outsourcing Services
The Information Technology (IT) sector in Bangladesh is thriving. Offering outsourcing services, such as software development, web design, or digital marketing, can capitalize on the country’s pool of skilled professionals.
Best Cities to Start a Business in Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, several cities offer conducive environments for starting and growing businesses. Each city has its unique advantages, and the choice depends on the nature of the business and target market. Here are some of the best cities to consider when starting a business in Bangladesh:
a) Dhaka
As the capital and largest city, Dhaka is the economic and business hub of Bangladesh. It provides a diverse market, access to skilled professionals, and numerous business support services. Dhaka is particularly suitable for industries like finance, IT, and manufacturing.
b) Chittagong
Known for its strategic seaport, Chittagong is a major commercial and industrial center. It is an excellent choice for businesses involved in international trade, logistics, and manufacturing. The city’s proximity to the Bay of Bengal enhances its importance in shipping and export-import activities.
c) Khulna
Situated in the southwestern part of Bangladesh, Khulna is an industrial city with a focus on the shipbuilding, jute, and textile industries. The city’s proximity to the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, also makes it a potential hub for eco-tourism businesses.
d) Rajshahi
Rajshahi, located in the northwest, is known as the Silk City and Education City. It’s a favorable location for businesses related to agriculture, silk production, and education. The city’s educational institutions contribute to a skilled workforce.
e) Sylhet
Sylhet, known for its picturesque landscapes, is a key city for the tea and tourism industries. It’s suitable for businesses related to tea processing, tourism services, and agriculture. The city’s international airport facilitates trade and tourism.
f) Barisal
Barisal, situated in the south-central part of Bangladesh, is an emerging city with potential in agriculture and fisheries. It’s an ideal location for businesses involved in food processing, agribusiness, and aquaculture.
g) Jessore
Jessore, located in the southwestern region, is an industrial city with a focus on agro-processing and manufacturing. It offers opportunities for businesses in food processing, textiles, and small-scale industries.
h) Comilla
Comilla, known for its historical significance, is a city with potential in the education and agribusiness sectors. It’s suitable for businesses involved in agriculture, food processing, and educational services.
i) Bogra
Bogra, situated in the north-central part of Bangladesh, is an important trading and business center. It has a growing economy and is favorable for businesses in trade, agriculture, and small-scale industries.
j) Mymensingh
Mymensingh, located in the central-northern part of Bangladesh, is known for its agricultural research institutions. It’s suitable for businesses related to agriculture, horticulture, and educational services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register a business in Bangladesh?
To register a business in Bangladesh, you need to follow the guidelines set by the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms (RJSC). The process involves obtaining necessary licenses and approvals.
What types of business structures are available in Bangladesh?
Common business structures include sole proprietorship, partnership, private limited company, and public limited company. Choosing the right structure depends on factors like ownership, liability, and regulatory compliance.
What are the profitable industry sectors in Bangladesh?
The following industry sectors are potentially profitable presently in Bangladesh:
- Manufacturing
- Apparels & Garments
- Power Generation/ Alternative Energy
- Education
- Healthcare
- Construction/ Highway
- Travel & Tourism
- Transport/ Logistics
- IT and Software
- Manpower Supply
- Renewable Energy
How to start a business in Bangladesh as a foreign investor?
There are broadly four ways for foreigners to start a business in Bangladesh. They are the following:
- You can register a private limited company.
- Register your business as a branch office.
- One can register the business as a project office.
- Register your business with the Franchise Agreement.
Are there any incentives for foreign investors in Bangladesh?
Yes, Bangladesh offers various incentives for foreign investors, including tax breaks, duty-free imports for certain sectors, and simplified procedures for repatriation of profits.
What is the minimum capital requirement for starting a business in Bangladesh?
The minimum capital requirement varies based on the type of business structure. For example, private limited companies may have specific capital requirements.
How long does it take to register a business in Bangladesh?
The registration process duration can vary, but it typically takes a few weeks to complete all the necessary steps, including obtaining approvals and licenses.
What are the tax obligations for businesses in Bangladesh?
Businesses in Bangladesh are subject to various taxes, including corporate income tax, VAT, and customs duties. It’s crucial to understand and fulfil tax obligations to ensure legal compliance.
Are there any sector-specific regulations for businesses?
Yes, certain sectors may have specific regulations and licensing requirements. For example, industries like banking, insurance, and pharmaceuticals may have additional regulatory considerations.
Can foreign nationals own businesses in Bangladesh?
Yes, foreign nationals can own businesses in Bangladesh, either independently or in partnership with local entities. However, specific restrictions and regulations may apply depending on the business sector.
How can I access financing for my business in Bangladesh?
Financing options include local banks, financial institutions, and government-backed initiatives. Entrepreneurs can explore loans, grants, and investment opportunities to fund their ventures.
Is English widely spoken in the business environment in Bangladesh?
Yes, English is commonly used in the business environment, especially in urban areas. However, local languages such as Bengali (Bangla) are also widely spoken.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.
