Bangladesh government, in partnership with UNDP and IIX, introduced Orange Bonds, a groundbreaking financial instrument to drive sustainable, inclusive growth and gender-equitable economic empowerment in Bangladesh.
The Government in collaboration with UNDP and Impact Investment Exchange (IIX), hosted a high-level consultation titled “Rebuilding an Inclusive Bangladesh with Orange Bonds.”
The Economic Relations Division (ERD) of the Government of Bangladesh, in collaboration with UNDP and IIX, will facilitate the introduction of Orange bonds in Bangladesh, with the initial bonds likely issued in key international markets, such as Singapore.
This pivotal initiative introduced Orange Bonds as a transformative financial instrument to catalyze sustainable growth and inclusive economic recovery in Bangladesh
The consultation convened stakeholders from the government, financial institutions, regulators, and international partners.
Held at a hotel in the capital on Thursday, the consultation demonstrates the government’s commitment to the country's financial reforms that enable stability, growth, empowerment, gender equity, and climate action.
Moving forward, a comprehensive feasibility study will be conducted to provide recommendations on bond design, market readiness, and implementation, with support from key international partners.
Additionally, the ERD, UNDP, and IIX announced the formation of a multi-stakeholder “Technical Working Committee on Orange Bonds,” bringing together experts from government, industry, development, and civil society to guide regulatory frameworks and ensure an inclusive, transparent rollout.
The initiative seeks to mobilize up to US$1 billion across a series of bonds, channeling much-needed investments to strategic sectors essential for long-term stability and inclusive growth, such as ready-made garments (RMG) and agriculture, while promoting micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) development.
Attending the event as the chief guest, Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Financial Advisor at the Ministry of Finance, emphasized the positive impact of fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for sustainable financing initiatives like the Orange Bonds.
He stated, “By creating acceptable risk measurements and removing unnecessary barriers, we can ensure that everyone, especially women and small entrepreneurs, has access to the resources they need to thrive.”
Prof. Durreen Shahnaz, Founder and CEO of IIX, emphasized the strategic nature of this initiative: “The Orange Bond – is not just a financial vehicle; it is a powerful tool with a mission rooted in gender equality, climate action, and inclusive growth.”
Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP in Bangladesh, stated: "Today marks the beginning of a journey to make finance work for gender equality and green development."
“This will enhance the visibility of the bonds, attract international investors, including the Bangladeshi diaspora and development finance institutions (DFIs), and eventually help the country develop its local bond market to issue the bonds in Bangladesh”.
Lamiya Morshed, Principal Coordinator for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) affairs, Chief Adviser’s Office, highlighted the global significance of the initiative: "The Orange Bond would be an opportunity to put this vision into practice. Through it, we will unlock new resources for the people of Bangladesh—especially women, youth, and the communities that form the heart of our nation.”
