Empowering Local Economies: The Legal Landscape ofGeographical Indication in Bangladesh for Sustainable Development

The protection of Geographical Indications (GIs) holds transformative potential for fostering ‎sustainable development in Bangladesh by empowering local economies, safeguarding ‎cultural heritage, and promoting market access for indigenous products. This study examines ‎the legal landscape of GIs in Bangladesh, analyzing current legislation, international ‎obligations, and practical challenges in implementing effective GI protection. The research ‎highlights key Bangladeshi products with GI potential, such as Jamdani sarees and Nakshi ‎Kantha, exploring how legal recognition could enhance their market value, prevent ‎unauthorized use, and create economic incentives for rural artisans and producers. By assessing comparative models from other nations, this article identifies opportunities to strengthen Bangladesh’s GI framework, including necessary legislative reforms and institutional support. Furthermore, the study examines how a robust GI system can ‎contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in reducing ‎poverty and promoting economic growth in rural communities. Through this analysis, the article argues that strengthening GI protections can offer a path to resilient economic growth, fair trade practices, and a more inclusive economy, where local producers can thrive in both domestic and international markets.