Bangladesh has formally recognized esports as an official sport, in keeping with the rising global trend of competitive video timing.
The Government of Bangladesh issued a declaration citing provisions from the National Sports Council Act, 2018.
The official notification states that esports now holds the status of “sport” as per sections 2(2) and 6 of the act, paving the way for its inclusion in national sports planning, funding, and institutional frameworks.
Asif Mahmud, Adviser for Youth and Sports Ministry, confirmed the announcement via social media, stating: “Esports has been granted official recognition as a sport by the Ministry of Youth and Sports.”
A four-member committee has been formed to determine its governance and policies. The committee will formulate national guidelines and evaluate international standards—particularly those set by the International Olympic Committee (IOC)—and review feedback from stakeholders. It’ll also consider the opinions of the IT Department and related laws, rules and government regulations. If necessary, it can also take help from experts.
The committee is expected to submit a comprehensive report within a month with recommendations on integrating e-sports within the broader sports ecosystem of Bangladesh.
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In addition to technical and policy recommendations, the committee will also prepare formal proposals for the government, outlining how esports should function within public institutions and national competitions.
“This is a victory for the Bangladeshi gaming community. This milestone marks a major step forward for all of us,” said Mohammad Aliur Rahman Sohan, Founder and CEO of Zenetic Esports reacting to the news.
The recognation of e-sports as a sport will provide government support to youth involved in the sector and create opportunities to participate at the international level. This will allow Bangladesh to send representatives to global events like E-sports World Cup and compete with the best of the world. Such competition also carry lucrative prize money for the participants.
