About the project

Partner: Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Project duration: May 2025 – February 2027

Bangladesh is preparing to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2026. While this marks a major milestone, the economy faces persistent inflation, pressure on foreign exchange reserves, currency depreciation, and limited job creation. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensure a smooth and sustainable transition. To support this process, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched TA 10291: Knowledge Support for LDC Graduation and Improving Investment Climate and commissioned the study to RAPID. The study will provide research, analysis, and capacity-building to strengthen macroeconomic management, promote private sector growth, diversify the economy, and advance climate-resilient sustainable development.

Project Objectives:
The project aims to:

• Prepare country diagnostic studies to inform the next Country Partnership Strategy (CPS).
• Develop inclusive development assessments aligned with government and ADB priorities.
• Conduct macroeconomic assessments for the CPS.
• Undertake diagnostics on employment, poverty, inequality, migration, and remittances.
• Assess SME participation in regional and global value chains. Prepare analyses on medium-term fiscal frameworks, public investment management, debt management, and external sector stability.
• Organise capacity-building programmes, stakeholder consultations, and dissemination workshops.