Growing Industry in Bangladesh: Esports
Esports in Bangladesh is no longer just a hobby for teenagers. It is gradually becoming a recognized part of the country’s sports culture. Fueled by affordable smartphones, cheaper internet, and the global rise of competitive gaming, Bangladesh is starting to create its own esports ecosystem. According to Statista, Bangladesh already has more than 3.5 million active online gamers as of 2023, with that number expected to grow rapidly in the next five years.
The global esports industry was valued at nearly $1.4 billion in 2022, and experts predict it could cross $1.8 billion by 2025 (Newzoo). With youth in Bangladesh embracing PUBG Mobile, Free Fire, FIFA, and Valorant, the country has an untapped opportunity to become a South Asian hub for esports growth.
The Rise of Esports in Bangladesh
The popularity of esports in Bangladesh took off during the COVID-19 pandemic. With traditional sports halted, young people turned to gaming not only for entertainment but also for competition. Platforms like Facebook Gaming, YouTube Live, and Twitch became mainstream for Bangladeshi streamers, who built strong followings in a short time.
By 2021, games like PUBG Mobile and Free Fire had already created organized tournaments. The PUBG Mobile National Championship (PMNC) attracted thousands of players and millions of online viewers. Teams like A1 Esports, Venom Legends, and Red Viperz gained recognition not only locally but also on the South Asian stage.
Market Size and Player Base
Esports in Bangladesh is growing because of the country’s digital transformation. According to Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), the country had over 127 million internet users in 2023, most of them accessing the internet via smartphones. This massive digital base creates a fertile ground for mobile esports.
Industry reports suggest that Bangladesh’s gaming market is worth over $50 million annually, and esports is capturing an increasing share of that. While this figure is small compared to India’s $1 billion gaming market, the growth rate is promising.
International Exposure and Achievements
Bangladeshi esports teams have started appearing on international platforms. A1 Esports competed in the PUBG Mobile Global Championship (PMGC), while Bangladeshi squads have also made appearances in the Free Fire Continental Series. Though they have not yet secured top spots, their participation has raised Bangladesh’s visibility in the global esports scene.
Bangladeshi gamers also excel individually. Players have gained large audiences on streaming platforms, with some crossing hundreds of thousands of followers on Facebook Gaming and YouTube. This shows that esports is not just competitive but also entertainment-driven.
Social Acceptance of Esports
Esports in Bangladesh is still fighting for recognition. Traditional views often consider gaming a waste of time rather than a career. Many parents remain skeptical, fearing gaming will distract students from studies. However, the narrative is shifting.
When young players began earning money through streaming, sponsorships, and prize winnings, the perception started changing. For example, winners of national PUBG Mobile tournaments in Bangladesh have earned prize pools worth several million taka. This has shown society that gaming can be both a passion and a profession.
Infrastructure and Policy Gaps
The esports ecosystem in Bangladesh faces critical challenges. Unlike cricket or football, there is no government recognition or federation for esports. Without official recognition, esports cannot access government funding, training programs, or inclusion in national sports calendars.
Bangladesh also lacks esports arenas and professional training facilities. Most tournaments are organized by private sponsors or telecom companies. Furthermore, unreliable internet speeds and frequent disruptions hinder competitive play. According to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index, Bangladesh ranked 98th in mobile internet speed in 2023, far behind regional competitors like India and Malaysia.
Economic Opportunities in Esports
Despite the challenges, esports in Bangladesh offers major opportunities. The gaming industry is tied closely with technology, digital marketing, and youth culture. Investments in esports can generate jobs in event management, broadcasting, sponsorship, game development, and streaming.
Global forecasts show that esports viewership could surpass 640 million people worldwide by 2025 (Statista). If Bangladesh positions itself strategically, it can tap into sponsorships, digital advertising, and tourism tied to esports events.
Role of Private Companies and Startups
Telecom companies like Grameenphone and Banglalink have already sponsored esports tournaments. Startups and esports organizations are hosting national competitions with growing prize pools. This private sector involvement shows that there is money and interest in esports. However, long-term sustainability will require structured leagues, coaching, and grassroots programs.
Youth Engagement and Education
For many young people, esports is not just about playing games but about building communities. University campuses in Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet have started forming esports clubs. Some institutions are experimenting with tournaments to attract students. If integrated into youth development programs, esports can become a tool for digital literacy, teamwork, and global connectivity.
Education can also play a role. Introducing esports curriculum focusing on digital skills, psychology, and business can help turn passion into professional careers. Countries like South Korea and China already include esports in their formal systems, and Bangladesh can follow their example.
Challenges of Regulation and Addiction
One of the concerns surrounding esports is gaming addiction. Young players often spend long hours online, which can harm physical health and studies. A proper regulatory framework, with parental guidance and responsible gaming practices, is needed.
Another challenge is financial exploitation. Without official oversight, players may be lured by shady sponsorships or lose earnings to unregulated organizers. Stronger regulations will protect players and create a transparent esports market.
Future of Esports in Bangladesh
The future of esports in Bangladesh looks bright. With over 65 percent of the population under the age of 35, the country has a massive youth base ready to embrace esports. If the government recognizes esports as an official sport, it can accelerate growth through funding, facilities, and international partnerships.
Esports can also create cross-border opportunities. Regional competitions with India, Nepal, and Pakistan could boost both competitiveness and cultural exchange. Additionally, hosting international tournaments in Dhaka or Chittagong could attract tourism and global sponsors.
Esports in Bangladesh is no longer a fringe activity. It has millions of players, growing tournaments, international exposure, and strong youth participation. The industry faces barriers like lack of recognition, infrastructure, and regulation, but these challenges can be solved with policy support and investment.
Bangladesh has the potential to join the global esports stage. If nurtured properly, esports can create jobs, inspire young people, and position Bangladesh as a rising player in the digital economy.
