The Motorbike Revolution in Bangladesh
The story of the motorbike revolution in Bangladesh is one of ambition, innovation, and independence. A decade ago, Bangladesh relied almost entirely on imported motorbikes from India, Japan, and China. Today, the country has transformed into a hub of local production and assembly, exporting Bangladeshi-made motorcycles to countries like Nepal and Ghana.
According to the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), local manufacturers now meet nearly 90 percent of domestic demand, and the motorcycle industry has created more than 1.5 lakh jobs. From Walton’s locally produced models to Runner’s international exports, Bangladesh is not only meeting domestic needs but also moving toward global recognition. (BIDA Bangladesh)
This transformation has made motorcycles one of the fastest-growing industries in the country, contributing significantly to both employment and industrial diversification.
From Imports to Innovation: A Decade of Transformation
For years, motorcycles were luxury items in Bangladesh, with high prices and heavy import taxes limiting access. However, policy changes in 2016 shifted the landscape. The government introduced reduced import duties on motorbike parts for companies assembling locally, encouraging investment and local manufacturing.
The result was dramatic. Motorcycle sales surged from 1.2 lakh units in 2015 to over 8 lakh units in 2024, according to the Bangladesh Motorcycle Assemblers and Manufacturers Association (BMAMA). Local production replaced imports, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem that now covers design, assembly, and partial manufacturing of engines and body components.
This growth story is a testament to how policy, private investment, and technology can combine to create national progress. (BMAMA)
Walton: The Pioneer of Bangladeshi Motorcycle Manufacturing
No discussion of the motorbike revolution in Bangladesh is complete without mentioning Walton Hi-Tech Industries Ltd, the country’s first full-fledged motorcycle manufacturer.
Founded in 2008, Walton began production at its Gazipur-based Walton Micro-Tech Corporation. It became the first Bangladeshi company to produce motorcycles using mostly local parts, achieving 80 percent localization.
Walton produces models like the Fusion 110, Prizm 110, Ranger, and Leo 90, all of which are designed to suit the preferences of Bangladeshi riders. Prices range from Tk 70,000 to Tk 1,20,000, making them affordable for middle- and lower-income consumers.
More importantly, Walton has expanded globally, exporting to Nepal, Ghana, and several African markets. The company’s focus on affordability, reliability, and eco-friendly innovation positions it as a future leader in South Asian manufacturing. (Walton Motors)
Runner Automobiles: Driving Bangladesh Toward Global Markets
Another key player in this revolution is Runner Automobiles Ltd, which began operations in 2000 and started mass production in 2012. Based in Bhaluka, Mymensingh, Runner now produces over 100,000 units annually.
With an impressive 95 percent localization rate, Runner designs, manufactures, and assembles its motorcycles within Bangladesh. Its popular models include the Runner Bullet 100, Kite 110, Cheeta, and Turbo 125.
Runner was the first Bangladeshi company to export motorcycles to Nepal in 2017. The company has also collaborated with UM Motorcycles (USA) to introduce advanced models for both local and international markets.
According to Runner’s latest reports, the company aims to export to Africa and the Middle East within the next five years. (Runner Automobiles)
Rising Stars: New Local Brands and Partnerships
The motorbike revolution in Bangladesh is not limited to the big two. Smaller but promising companies are also shaping the industry.
Roadmaster Motors, based in Dhaka, is producing cost-effective bikes for rural consumers. Their models, such as the Roadmaster Rapido 150, offer value for money and are becoming popular among delivery riders and commuters.
Akij Motors, a branch of the Akij Group, is investing heavily in electric motorcycles (e-bikes). Their goal is to reduce fuel dependency and promote sustainable transport. Additionally, Znen Bangladesh, a local partner of a Chinese scooter company, assembles electric scooters suited for urban riders.
These ventures highlight how diverse and innovative the industry has become.
The Shift Toward Electric Motorbikes
One of the most exciting trends in Bangladesh’s motorcycle industry is the rise of electric motorbikes. As fuel prices increase and environmental awareness grows, companies are investing in electric vehicle (EV) technology.
Akij Motors has launched several electric models suitable for city use, focusing on affordability and long battery life. Meanwhile, Nitol-Niloy Group is developing e-motorcycles for delivery and personal transport.
The government’s EV Policy 2030 aims to ensure that 30 percent of all vehicles in Bangladesh are electric by 2030. This policy includes tax incentives and subsidies for EV manufacturers, signaling a new era of sustainable mobility. (SREDA Bangladesh)
Electric motorcycles are not just an environmental necessity but an economic opportunity. They could help reduce oil imports, lower carbon emissions, and create new jobs in battery manufacturing and charging infrastructure.
Government Support and Industrial Growth
The government has been a major catalyst for the motorbike revolution in Bangladesh. Under the Automobile Industry Development Policy 2021, local manufacturers receive tax incentives, reduced import duties on raw materials, and export subsidies.
This policy aims to make Bangladesh a regional motorcycle manufacturing hub by 2035. With growing domestic demand and rising export capacity, the industry is on track to contribute billions to the national economy.
According to BBS data, the motorcycle market grew by 24 percent annually between 2020 and 2024. Moreover, the government’s investment in road infrastructure and rural connectivity has increased demand for two-wheelers across all districts.
Comparing Local and Foreign Brands
Locally produced bikes are now competing head-to-head with foreign brands like Honda, Yamaha, TVS, and Bajaj. While international models offer advanced performance and design, local motorcycles are winning the affordability battle.
A Walton or Runner bike can cost between Tk 80,000 and Tk 1,40,000, while imported models often exceed Tk 2,50,000. Maintenance for local models is also cheaper, and parts are widely available.
Performance gaps are narrowing as Bangladeshi companies improve technology and quality control. The rise of domestic R&D units and partnerships with foreign firms is pushing the local industry toward global standards.
Export Growth and Economic Impact
Bangladesh’s motorcycle exports are small but growing fast. Runner and Walton lead the way, shipping thousands of units to Nepal, Bhutan, and Africa. According to Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) data, the country earned around USD 15 million from motorcycle exports in 2024, a number expected to double by 2026.
Beyond exports, the domestic market itself has become a massive job generator. Over 100,000 workers are employed in assembly lines, dealerships, and after-sales services. The motorcycle industry also supports ancillary sectors such as paint, plastic, metalwork, and logistics.
This interconnected growth shows how a single manufacturing industry can uplift an entire economic chain.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While progress is undeniable, challenges remain. Local manufacturers still rely on imported high-end components such as engine blocks and electronic systems. Quality control and product diversity need further improvement to compete globally.
The shift toward electric mobility also requires major investment in charging infrastructure, battery recycling, and public awareness. However, with continued government backing and private innovation, these challenges are surmountable.
If Bangladesh sustains its growth trajectory, it could soon be recognized as a leading motorcycle production hub in South Asia, much like Thailand or Vietnam.
The Pride of Made-in-Bangladesh Motorbikes
The motorbike revolution in Bangladesh is more than an industrial success. It is a story of national pride. From Walton’s pioneering local production to Runner’s international exports, Bangladeshi manufacturers are proving that homegrown innovation can match global standards.
As technology advances and electric bikes enter the mainstream, Bangladesh’s motorcycle industry is poised for an even brighter future. This revolution is not just about transportation. It represents jobs, empowerment, and a symbol of progress on the road toward self-reliance.