In a landmark move, the Government of Bangladesh has officially recognised esports as a legitimate sport, marking a significant step forward for the country’s digital and competitive gaming community. The Ministry of Youth and Sports issued a circular confirming the decision under sections 2(2) and 6 of the National Sports Council Act, 2018, bringing esports under the umbrella of officially sanctioned sports.
This development comes in the wake of earlier government actions that included the temporary ban of popular games like PUBG and Free Fire in 2021. At the time, the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications had instructed the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to block access to certain mobile games, citing concerns over youth addiction, mental health, and academic disruption. The move sparked widespread debate between youth groups, digital rights activists, and policymakers over balancing protection and progress.
Now, just a few years later, the state’s recognition of esports signals a shift in mindset — one that acknowledges the growing global influence of competitive gaming and its potential as a legitimate career path and industry. The new policy treats esports with the same level of administrative seriousness as traditional sports.
To manage this new inclusion, the ministry has formed a dedicated policy formulation committee. The committee includes:
- Dr Mohammad Saiful Alam, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports (Convener)
- A representative from the Institute of Information Technology, University of Dhaka (in a professorial role)
- A representative from the Department of Information and Communication Technology
- The Director of Sports, National Sports Council (Member Secretary)
The committee is tasked with:
- Drafting esports regulations based on IOC guidelines and expert opinions
- Recommending the formation of an esports watchdog
- Reviewing all relevant government laws, directives, and communication technology regulations
- Addressing any additional emerging concerns
The committee has been asked to submit its report within 21 working days, with flexibility to co-opt other experts as required. Once the policy is approved, the official gazette notification will finalise the legal status of esports in Bangladesh.
The recognition of esports is a notable turnaround for a country that once viewed digital gaming with suspicion. With this step, Bangladesh positions itself on the global esports map and opens the door to structured development, investment, and international competition.