Bangladesh, a nation transitioning from being a consumer to a producer in the global electronics and technology market, is striving to establish its own brands in the competitive arena. Walton, a leading local company, has achieved self-reliance in manufacturing electronics, home appliances, and tech products through the CKD (Complete Knock Down) process, evolving from its initial SKD (Semi Knock Down) assembly operations.
Marking its achievements, Walton is hosting the second ATS Expo to showcase its expertise and capabilities to entrepreneurs, researchers, and enthusiasts in the industry. The expo was inaugurated at the Bashundhara International Convention Centre, where Walton Hi-Tech Industries’ Managing Director, S.M. Mahbubul Alam, emphasized the need for economic prosperity to fulfill the vision of independence. He stated, “Economic growth requires everyone’s participation, which is why we are bringing competitors under one roof to collaborate.”
Highlighting Walton’s capabilities, Alam elaborated that the company produces finished goods, raw materials, software, hardware, packaging, and industrial components in its own production facilities. These materials are now being supplied to electronics manufacturers in Bangladesh and abroad, significantly reducing import dependency. Walton’s initiative aims to cut costs for local industries and save foreign currency by replacing imported industrial materials with locally produced alternatives. Alam also called for clear legal distinctions between assemblers and manufacturers to ensure industry growth.
National Board of Revenue (NBR) Chairman Md. Abdur Rahman Khan, the chief guest, commended Walton for its contributions to the nation’s economy. He remarked, “Walton has made Bangladesh proud and respected by exporting its products globally. It has acted as an ambassador for Bangladesh worldwide.” Sharing his experiences, Khan mentioned that during an official visit to East Timor, he witnessed high demand for Walton products, with customers valuing their superior quality.
Walton’s Vice-Chairman, S.M. Ashraful Alam, shared the company’s vision to position Bangladesh as a global hub for technology products. “Through the ATS Expo, we aim to present Bangladesh differently to the world. We have already demonstrated our strength on platforms like Las Vegas CES, Canton Fair, and Frankfurt Messe. Now, we invite global buyers to witness our progress firsthand,” he said, expressing optimism that Bangladesh will soon be recognized as a leading global technology hub.
The event was also attended by prominent figures, including the Chairman of the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Mahmudul Hasan; Jin Hur, Country Head of Woori Bank; Najith Meewanage, CEO of Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC; and foreign diplomats Samer Abderazzak and Toum Sofiane. They applauded Walton’s efforts and expressed hope for Bangladesh’s rising prominence in the global tech industry.