The manufacturing sector is emerging as the main driver of economic growth in 2025 in the capital, Dhaka, according to the latest Economic Position Index (EPI) survey by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI). The quarterly survey, which tracks sectoral economic trends, shows that productive industries account for 56 percent of participating businesses, while services contribute 44 percent.

The findings were presented Saturday (October 25) at a focus group discussion on the Economic Position Index at DCCI’s auditorium in Motijheel, Dhaka. DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed delivered the welcome address, and Acting Secretary General Dr. AKM Asaduzzaman Patwari presented the main paper.

Within the manufacturing sector in Dhaka, the ready-made garment (RMG) industry leads with a 58.6 percent share, followed by food products at 13.4 percent, textiles at 9.3 percent, and rubber and plastic products at 7.7 percent. Other contributors include base metals (3.3 percent), pharmaceuticals and chemicals (2.7 percent), leather and related products (2.7 percent), and non-metallic minerals (2.2 percent).

In the services sector, wholesale and retail trade dominate with 60.2 percent, followed by real estate at 20.8 percent and transport at 19 percent.

Industry experts noted that steady growth in garment and food product exports is strengthening Dhaka’s overall industrial output. The prominence of retail in services also indicates rising domestic purchasing power. This balance between productive and service sectors is expected to make the economy more diversified and sustainable.