Bangladesh’s paints and coatings industry has experienced steady growth in recent years, driven by rapid urbanization and expanding industrial activity. Over the past decade, the industry has undergone significant evolution, adapting to local market needs while gradually aligning with international standards. Today, approximately 40 companies operate in the Bangladeshi market, comprising a mix of domestic manufacturers and multinational corporations. Although local brands maintain a visible presence, multinational companies continue to dominate the sector due to their technological advantages, strong brand equity, and extensive distribution networks.

The market size illustrated in the chart (Figure: 01) is calculated using Berger Paints Bangladesh’s year‑wise annual net sales, and by applying an assumed 50% market share, the total estimated size of the Bangladesh paint market has been extrapolated accordingly.

Approximately 40% of the total cost of paint is attributed to application. Based on this proportion, the yearly expenditure on paint application has been illustrated in the column chart (Figure: 02). A review of market behaviour over the past five years reveals a steady and robust growth pattern within the paint industry. If this upward trend persists, projections indicate that the total paint market could reach approximately BDT 6,379 crore in 2026, with the associated application cost rising to an estimated BDT 2,551 crore. A key question that emerges is whether the country is currently developing a sufficient pipeline of skilled paint applicators to meet the projected demand for applications, estimated at approximately Tk 2,551 crore.

Berger Training Institute Trains oVer 13,000 Painters Nationwide:

Berger Paints Bangladesh Limited has trained more than 13,000 painters through its Berger Training Institute (BTI), playing a significant role in developing skilled manpower for the country’s construction and paint sectors. The training initiative was officially launched as the Berger Training Institute in 2016 in collaboration with the government’s National Skill Development Authority (NSDA). Initially starting its operations in Dhaka, BTI has since expanded to Chattogram and Rajshahi, extending access to professional painting skills in both the northern and southern regions of Bangladesh.

BTI focuses on hands‑on training, covering modern painting techniques, advanced tools, quality application methods, and safety practices. This practical, industry‑oriented approach has helped improve workmanship quality and increased employability among trained painters. Many BTI‑trained painters are currently employed in local construction and infrastructure projects, while others have secured overseas employment in countries such as Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and the United States. Their overseas engagement has also contributed to foreign remittance inflows for Bangladesh.

At present, BTI offers six certified training courses, including the “Painting for Construction” Level‑2 short course. The 360‑hour program, launched in May 2025, is supported by funding from the National Human Resource Development Fund (NHRDF).To further scale up skilled manpower development, the Bureau of Manpower Employment and Training (BMET) plans to train approximately 5,000 painters annually in collaboration with BTI, using government Technical Training Centers (TTC) across the country.

“At Berger, we believe our responsibility goes beyond producing paint—we must also develop skilled painters. As technology and application methods continue to evolve, continuous training through the Berger Training Institute is essential to meet technical demand, support overseas employment, and ensure quality and competitiveness across Bangladesh,” said Md Mohsin Habib Chowdhury, COO & Director of Berger Paints Bangladesh Ltd.

Other multinational (MNCs) and local companies need to establish dedicated training institutes to develop a skilled and professional workforce, as this sector has a huge and growing demand. Although many organizations currently provide in-house training, these programs are often limited to their internal needs and do not adequately address the demand for specialized talent across the industry.

By creating structured training institutes focused on specific skill categories, companies can prepare the right people with the right competencies. This approach will enable Bangladesh not only to meet its domestic workforce requirements but also to supply skilled professionals to the international market.

Inclusion of Female Painters

Berger Paints Bangladesh Limited has announced the inclusion of female painters in its Express Painting service, delivered through the Berger Experience Zone. The company has already trained 150 female painters, setting a groundbreaking benchmark in South Asia. This initiative marks a significant step forward in its mission to deliver a professional, fast, and clean painting experience, while driving meaningful social change.

As part of this effort, the addition of trained female painters is expected to bring an enhanced level of comfort and convenience to households. Their participation is particularly intended to create a more reassuring environment for families, especially women and children, during home painting projects. This move not only introduces a new dimension of customer‑centric innovation but also brings a fresh perspective to an industry traditionally dominated by men.

The initiative aligns with Berger’s broader mission to empower women in non-traditional professions. The female painters engaged in this service are graduates of Berger’s dedicated training programme conducted through the Berger Training Institute (BTI) in collaboration with the National Skill Development Authority (NSDA). The programme has already earned recognition, including the SDG Brand Champion Awards 2024, for its role in advancing diversity and expanding professional opportunities for women.

“We are focused on continuously improving the customer experience by providing more options and greater flexibility,” said Rupali Chowdhury, Managing Director of Berger Paints Bangladesh Limited. “By training and including women in our painting workforce, we are meeting the evolving needs of our customers while also supporting a positive change that helps break industry stereotypes.”

Sk Emadul Bari is a Researcher at Berger Paints Bangladesh Ltd