Per capita income in Dhaka reaches $5,163: Survey

The annual per capita income of residents in Dhaka has reached $5,163, nearly double the national average of $2,820, according to a new economic status survey conducted by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI).

The findings were presented on Saturday at an event held at the DCCI headquarters in Motijheel, Dhaka.

The survey highlights the capital’s dominant role in the national economy, revealing that Dhaka contributes 46% of the country’s total GDP and accounts for 40% of total employment.

The report also notes that more than 11% of Bangladesh’s total population lives in Dhaka — the highest urban concentration in Asia.

In terms of trade, the survey shows that 40% of Bangladesh’s total exports originate from Dhaka. Moreover, 365 industrial enterprises control 56% of the manufacturing sector, while 289 companies dominate the service sector.

The readymade garment industry, the country’s largest export earner, is also highly concentrated, with 214 firms accounting for 58% of total prodhuction.

DCCI officials said the findings underscore Dhaka’s pivotal role as the economic powerhouse of Bangladesh, while also pointing to the need for balanced regional development to reduce economic disparity between the capital and other parts of the country.