A new HSBC survey has revealed that over half of Bangladeshi companies are highly confident that their international operations will expand over the next two years.
The British multinational bank found that local sentiment is significantly stronger than the global average of 41 percent.
HSBC said today, “Bangladeshi businesses maintain a broadly positive outlook on revenue and impact despite trade and tariff uncertainties, aligning closely with global trends while managing ongoing cost pressures.”
The survey was conducted among 6,750 decision-makers across 17 countries. In Bangladesh, 250 officials were surveyed in October 2025 to gauge sentiment among international corporates.
Market Expansion Trends
45% of transport and industrial firms are increasing sales in Germany
41% of technology, media, and telecom firms are expanding in the UK
40% of firms are boosting sales in France, above Bangladesh’s 38% average and well above the global average of 16%
HSBC noted that businesses are exploring new trade corridors to build resilience against instability.
Global Trends and South Asia’s Role
Europe and Southeast Asia remain the preferred expansion destinations
Followed by North America and East/North Asia
South Asian firms are increasingly targeting Europe, with 55% aiming for growth there
Companies plan to reduce reliance on North and South America
Md Mahbub ur Rahman, CEO of HSBC Bangladesh, said: “Bangladeshi businesses are rapidly adapting to global shifts, showing resilience and optimism. With our global network, we are confident in connecting them to new trade and investment opportunities worldwide.”
Vivek Ramachandran, Head of Global Trade Solutions at HSBC, added: “Greater clarity over trade and tariffs has emboldened firms to plan ahead, treating international trade not as a risk but as an opportunity to reinvent themselves.”