Opportunities for Blue Economy in

Bangladesh

• Shipping: 90% of external freight trade is seaborne.

• Fishery: Untapped potential in the Bay of Bengal.
• Oil and Gas: Unexplored offshore gas prospects.
• Tourism: Coastal tourism's significant contribution to GDP and
employment.
• Future Exploration: Vast sea region exploration for economic
growth and investment.
Blue Economy for Bangladesh's Sustainable Development
Maritime Boundary Resolved disputes with Myanmar and India, securing a substantial maritime area in the Bay of
Victories: Bengal.
Economic Potential: Offers opportunities for economic growth, livelihood improvement, and employment through
sustainable use of oceanic resources.
Sovereign Rights: Bangladesh's sovereignty extends up to 354 nautical miles, presenting a significant opportunity for
development.
Challenges: Despite plans and policy support, tangible steps are yet to be taken, requiring immediate action.

Economic The ocean economy contributes $6.2 billion or 3% of GDP, with sectors like tourism, fisheries,
Contribution: transport, and offshore oil and gas extraction.
Potential Benefits: Sea resources, coastal tourism, and private sector involvement can enhance economic benefits and
boost tourism.
Blue Economy Tools: Marine trade, shipping, tourism, renewable energy, and marine spatial planning can eradicate
poverty and achieve sustainable development goals.
Renewable Energy The Bay of Bengal offers vast potential for renewable energy production through wind, tidal
Potential: biomass, thermal conversion, and salinity gradients.
Integrated Business Economic actors must establish an integrated business model aligned with national and global
Model: developments.
Capacity Building: Investment in ocean economy sectors and capacity building are crucial for realizing the full
potential.
Security Measures: Ensuring maritime security, environmental conservation, and preventing pollution, piracy, and
terrorism are essential.
Priority Sectors of Bangladesh’s Blue Economy:
Guiding the Future

First Priority: Second Priority: Third Priority: Fourth Priority:

Exploration and Furthering Protection of Technology
Exploitation of Marine Activities Resources Acquisition
Resources