Abstract:
Bangladesh is expenencmg regional imbalance since its birth. Such imbalances
affected the regions in many ways including their economic structures. This research
work repres;nts an attempt where the economic systems of six regions of the
country namely Barisal, Chittagong, Dhaka, Khulna, Rajshahi and Sylhet are
evaluated with the help ofinput-output technique.
The input-output model has enabled to perform several types of analyses of the
regional economies, the implications of which for policy can hardly be over
emphasized. It is found that in terms of output multiplier, sectoral backward and
forward linkages, the economic sectors interact more strongly in developed regions
(Dhaka and Chittagong) rather than in the less developed parts.
Another important finding of this study is the economic landscapes of the regions
which highlight the stimulating role of industry sector in fostering the growth of
developed regions.
Finally, regional impacts are assessed due to an increase in the investment
expenditure for the thirteen major economic sectors. The results of this exercise also
revealed that the impacts are smaller in the under developed regions compared to
more developed regions. Based on these findings an effort is provided to motivate
the planners and policy makers to integrate regional and sectoral approach to ensure
the ultimate goal of national development.
