Beyond Threads: Electronics, Pharmaceuticals, and Bangladesh’s Bid for Global Value Chain Upgrading

As Bangladesh approaches scheduled graduation in November 2026 from least developed country (LDC) status, changes in trade preferences, intellectual property structures, and subsidy regimes may reshape the environment for multinational corporations (MNCs). Bangladesh offers a low-cost manufacturing base transitioning toward diversified, global value chain (GVC)-integrated production. Applying the trifecta framework of tasks, linkages, and firms, we show why upgrading requires gradual capability-building in Bangladesh’s electronics sector but faster strategic partnership in pharmaceuticals. Our findings have implications for international business managers and researchers by showing how functional specialization, knowledge connectedness, and lead-firm governance can shape GVC upgrading prospects in emerging economies.