SME Sector Must Embrace Smart Solutions: Advisor Urges Tech Integration for Economic Growth
Scientific and Technological Affairs Advisor Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed has emphasized the need for greater technology integration in the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector, urging policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize digital transformation to enhance sectoral development.
“Technology must be embraced to improve the SME sector. We can no longer rely on hardcopy information — a comprehensive digital database for SME entrepreneurs must be developed swiftly,” he said.
Dr. Salehuddin made these remarks on Wednesday, July 2, while addressing the SME Foundation-ERF Media Award 2025 distribution ceremony held in the capital. Highlighting the sector’s potential, he added, “A strong SME sector will positively impact the entire economy.”
Stressing the importance of coordinated efforts, he said, “We need more active engagement from bankers and policymakers, and there must be integrated support from Bangladesh Bank and the Ministry of Finance.”
The award ceremony was chaired by SME Foundation Chairperson Md. Musafiquar Rahman and moderated by ERF Secretary Abul Kashem. Special guests included SME Foundation Managing Director Anwar Hossain Chowdhury, ERF President Daulat Akhtar Mala, and SME Foundation General Manager Mohammad Jahangir Hossain. Officials from both organizations were also in attendance.
A total of 21 journalists were honored with the SME Foundation-ERF Media Award 2025 at the event.
In his keynote address, Dr. Salehuddin said, “Financing remains a major challenge in the SME sector. Entrepreneurs face significant hurdles in accessing bank loans, even though their repayment rate is commendable.”
Regarding broader financial reforms, he noted, “There is a plan to complete major banking sector reforms by December this year.” On discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), he stated, “Talks on the loan tranche have been delayed due to complications related to the bifurcation of the National Board of Revenue (NBR). A letter sent by the NBR chairman was not taken into account, and he was asked to clarify the issue.”
Dr. Salehuddin further commented on the critical role of SMEs in the economy. “Medium-sized industries significantly contribute to economic development. Even in developed nations, the SME sector plays a vital role. We must modernize this sector through technological advancement. Especially in the empowerment of women, SMEs have made the highest contribution.”
He concluded with a renewed call for proper policy alignment among decision-makers and financial institutions to ensure sustainable SME sector growth.
