AI Now Boosts Revenue for 1 in 5 Bangladesh CEOs

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic buzzword for businesses in Bangladesh, as it is rapidly becoming a key driver of operational efficiency and strategic growth.

According to PricewaterhouseCoopers’ (PwC) 29th CEO Survey – Bangladesh edition, one in five CEOs now say AI is boosting company revenue, while one in four report cost reductions.

The findings show that companies are already seeing tangible business impact from AI, particularly in demand generation and strategic decision-making, where Bangladesh is outperforming some Southeast Asian peers.

However, the path toward full enterprise-wide AI integration remains incomplete.

Only about 40% of CEOs say their organisations have a clear AI roadmap, while fewer than one in five believe their AI systems can access all relevant company data.

The survey highlights challenges including weak governance structures, limited investment, and a shortage of skilled technical talent, all of which are slowing wider adoption.

Asif Bhuiyan, Group CEO of AK Khan & Company Ltd, said AI is becoming central to business strategy.

“AI at enterprise scale is no longer a side experiment; it is the backbone of how we plan to grow across sectors,” he said. “But to move beyond pilots, companies must first get the basics right — a clear roadmap, proper data systems, and governance suited to our context.”

PwC surveyed 45 CEOs in Bangladesh between 30 September and 10 November last year.

Impact on Jobs

The report notes that while some junior and mid-level roles may decline due to automation, senior positions are more likely to be enhanced rather than replaced, highlighting the need for reskilling and workforce transition strategies.

Alongside AI adoption, Bangladeshi companies are showing strong interest in diversification.

Nearly three-quarters of CEOs said their firms have entered new sectors over the past five years—almost double the global average. This reflects efforts to reduce risk and tap into new growth opportunities in a changing economy.

However, financial returns from diversification remain limited. Only 15% of CEOs said more than one-fifth of their revenue comes from these new sectors, suggesting many firms are still in an early experimental phase.

The report stresses that successful reinvention depends on clear capability planning and disciplined decisions on whether to build, buy, or partner for new competencies.

Despite the challenges, optimism among Bangladeshi CEOs remains strong, with many reporting rising market share and confidence in domestic economic growth despite global uncertainty and inflation pressures.