Bangladeshi retail-tech platform PriyoShop represented the country at the United Nations Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Forum 2026, highlighting its technology-driven distribution infrastructure for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in emerging markets.
The forum, held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, brought together ambassadors, policymakers, development partners, technology leaders and entrepreneurs from across the world to discuss innovation-driven solutions for sustainable development.
Representing Bangladesh at the event, PriyoShop Founder and CEO Asikul Alam Khan joined discussions with representatives from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, Microsoft, the Digital Cooperation Organization and entrepreneurs from other emerging economies.
The discussions focused on addressing infrastructure gaps that continue to challenge MSME supply chains across developing markets.
According to PriyoShop, Bangladesh's consumer economy is supported by more than five million small retailers, many of whom face challenges including limited access to working capital, fragmented supply chains, inadequate digital financial identities and limited sustainability frameworks.
To address these challenges, the company has developed a technology-enabled distribution network that connects local and international brands directly with retailers. The platform currently serves more than 200,000 MSME retailers across Bangladesh.
PriyoShop said its operations are built around five key infrastructure pillars: embedded finance, direct brand procurement, logistics infrastructure, retail intelligence and digital commerce tools.
The company stated that it has connected more than 296 brands with retailers nationwide and operates through a network of more than 42 distribution hubs.
In addition, the company highlighted its sustainability initiatives, including the use of electric vehicles and green logistics hubs to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
According to PriyoShop, its environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives are aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including poverty reduction, decent work, industry and innovation, responsible consumption and climate action.
The company reported achieving a reduction of 5,490 metric tonnes of carbon emissions up to May 2026 and said 20 percent of its climate-finance allocation is directed towards women-led and small-town retail businesses.
"What began as a Bangladesh problem is becoming a scalable model for every emerging market. No retailer should be left behind due to limitations in supply, access, or infrastructure," said Asikul Alam Khan.
The company said participation in the UN STI Forum provided an opportunity to demonstrate how digital retail infrastructure can contribute to sustainable economic growth and support small businesses in emerging economies.
PriyoShop described its presence at the forum as a milestone for Bangladesh's innovation ecosystem and a recognition of the country's growing role in developing technology-driven solutions for inclusive commerce.
