An Appraisal of Shipbuilding Prospects in Bangladesh

We live in a global society supported by global economy that simply could not function if it were not for ships and the shipping industries. Basically, overwhelming globalization demands the ability to transport raw materials and products across the world through waterways and the shipbuilding industries make it possible. As on today shipbuilding is the industry of Aisa with three giant shipbuilders of the world, i.e. China, South Korea and Japan. However, these giants are more attentive towards larger vessels. As a result construction of small and medium vessels (25,000 DWT or below) remains the task of developing nations like India, Pakistan, Vietnam, Philippine, Bangladesh etc. In this perspective, Bangladesh has an opportunity to nurture and develop her shipbuilding industries which had a long glorious heritage. If we become proactive in shipbuilding sector to catch hold a chunk of global projects and ensure construction of all ships for our own use at local shipyards, the dream of becoming middle income nation will be nearer.