The government has unveiled a strategic roadmap to integrate the nation's arts, culture, and handicraft sectors into the mainstream economy. During the launch ceremony of the book 'Creative Footprints' held at the Sheraton Hotel in Banani, Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury announced that the government is committed to transforming the creative economy into a primary engine for national growth.
Minister Khasru noted that in traditional economic models, arts and culture have often been sidelined from core economic activities. The current administration aims to shift this paradigm, positioning creativity as a vital tool for sustainable development. To achieve this, the government plans to provide financial incentives, skill development programs, and support for marketing local products in international markets.
The event was attended by British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke as a special guest, alongside notable figures including Bengal Foundation Chairman Abul Khair Litu and Standard Chartered Bank CEO Enamul Haque. The speakers emphasized that a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors is essential to realize the full potential of the creative industry.
Highlighting the necessity of a collective approach, the Finance Minister stated that the government cannot implement this vision in isolation. Consequently, the government is fostering public-private partnerships (PPP) and has already allocated specific funds in the national budget to support this sector. These resources are intended to bolster the capabilities of local artisans and cultural workers.
As part of the broader initiative, the government will provide comprehensive support for product design, branding, and global marketing. This strategy is expected to not only improve the financial well-being of local artisans but also elevate the global profile of the country's cultural heritage. The government anticipates that the growth of the creative economy will significantly contribute to job creation and provide a substantial boost to the national GDP.
