Business - Dhaka Tribune

BAT Bangladesh appoints Momshad Ali Khan as head of corporate & regulatory affairs

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 18:49:20 +0600

BAT Bangladesh PLC. has appointed Momshad Ali Khan as its head of corporate & regulatory affairs, effective October 1, 2026. Momshad brings more than two decades of experience across corporate affairs, government relations, regulatory strategy, stakeholder engagement and strategic communications. Before joining BAT Bangladesh, he served as director, public affairs, communications and... Details

ACI Beverages brings Singaporean coffee brand MacCoffee to Bangladesh

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 17:47:22 +0600

ACI Beverages, a strategic unit under ACI Foods Limited, has officially launched MacCoffee in Bangladesh through a strategic collaboration with Empire International Sdn. Bhd. (a member of Food Empire Holdings Limited, Singapore) facilitated by Mitsui & Co. (Malaysia) SDN BHD. The official launch ceremony took place at one of Shwapno’s flagship outlets in Banasree D Block on... Details

Trade deficit widens to $3.82bn in Jul-Aug’FY27

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 17:04:57 +0600

Although import expenses have risen in the country, export earnings have failed to keep pace. Consequently, the trade deficit expanded to $3.82 billion in the first two months (July–August) of the current FY27. Over the same period, deficits in the financial account and overall balance of payments also widened. However, a surge in remittances helped keep the current account in surplus.... Details

Inflation rises in September

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 17:00:09 +0600

The point-to-point inflation rose to 8.34% in September 2026 from 8.26% in August. However, the rate was slightly lower than the 8.36% recorded in September last year, according to data released by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) on Wednesday. Food inflation increased to 7.22% in September from 7.02% in August, while non-food inflation edged down to 9.30% from 9.32%. In September... Details

Software row triggers mass digital payment outage

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 16:57:04 +0600

ATM, card, and digital transaction services across 30 banks in the country were shut down from Sunday night. After three days, all Q-Cash services were restored late Tuesday. Information Technology Consultants PLC (ITCL), the local payment processor operating the Q-Cash network, revealed that the crisis stemmed from a dispute over software migration between ITCL and Compass Plus, a sanctioned... Details

Pubali Bank donates bus to Comilla Victoria Govt College

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 16:28:32 +0600

Pubali Bank PLC has gifted a bus to facilitate the transportation of students from Comilla Victoria Government College as part of its ongoing commitment to social responsibility and the development of the nation's education and human resources. Mohammad Ali, managing director of Pubali Bank PLC, attended the event as chief guest held at the college's Zia Auditorium. Presided over by the... Details

World Bank: Subsidies failing Bangladesh’s poorest

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 01:05:39 +0600

Millions of Bangladesh’s poorest citizens are being shut out of vital government support systems due to severe targeting inefficiencies, untargeted subsidies, and fragmented social safety net programs, according to a report released Tuesday by the World Bank. The multilateral lender’s report, titled Bangladesh Development Update: Make Subsidies and Social Protection Work Better for... Details

Nagad to sponsor DRU Best Reporting Award 2026

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 01:01:04 +0600

Nagad will sponsor the Dhaka Reporters Unity’s (DRU) ‘Best Reporting Award 2026’. This year, the award has been titled ‘Nagad-DRU Best Reporting Award 2026’. Nagad and DRU jointly announced it at a press conference held at the Shafiqul Kabir Auditorium of the Dhaka Reporters Unity on Tuesday. Awards will be presented for subject-specific reporting across a total... Details

ONE Bank promotes Bangla QR among retailers in Uttara

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:58:12 +0600

ONE Bank PLC organized a Bangla QR awareness program in Uttara Tuesday, in partnership with the shop owners of Zam Zam Tower, to encourage retailers to adopt digital payments and highlight the broader economic benefits of an interoperable digital payment ecosystem. Muhit Rahman, managing director of ONE Bank PLC, highlighted the importance of Bangla QR in making digital payments more... Details

World Bank projects Bangladesh growth at 3.4% for FY26, FY27 amid economic headwinds

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 12:41:23 +0600

Bangladesh’s economic growth is projected to remain subdued at 3.4% for both FY26 and FY27, constrained by persistent structural bottlenecks, elevated inflation, and financial sector vulnerabilities, according to the latest Bangladesh Development Update released by the World Bank on Tuesday. While foreign exchange reserves show resilience and growth is expected to gradually pick up... Details

IPDC Finance receives ADFIAP Development Award 2026 for e-Nothi initiative

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 01:12:33 +0600

IPDC Finance PLC has won the Award in Technology Development at the ADFIAP Development Awards 2026 for its digital transformation initiative, e-Nothi. The award was presented at the 49th ADFIAP Annual Meetings, held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from September 23 to 25, 2026. Representing IPDC Finance, Barrister Samiul Hashim, company secretary, head of legal affairs and acting head of brand &... Details

Tk8,000 discount, cashback on bKash payments for Puja shopping

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 01:06:48 +0600

To make festive shopping more joyful and affordable during Durga Puja, bKash is offering over Tk8,000 in cashback and discounts across more than 40,000 physical retail outlets and online platforms nationwide. Customers can avail these offers on bKash payments across multiple categories, including clothes, footwear, electronics, groceries, restaurant dining, ticketing, and hotel bookings. The... Details

ONE Bank, Saman International sign partnership agreement

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 01:05:01 +0600

ONE Bank PLC and Saman International Limited have signed a Partnership Agreement to offer exclusive benefits and special discounts to ONE Bank cardholders. Under the agreement, ONE Bank credit and debit cardholders will get flat15% discount on Hyundai XTeer, Apollo, and Veedol lubricants. ONE Bank credit cardholders will also be eligible for EMI facilities for 3 to 6 months on selected... Details

Fortune Rice Bran Oil promotes Walkathon for heart health

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 19:29:40 +0600

Fortune Rice Bran Oil organized ‘হার্টের জন্য হাঁটো (Walk for Heart)’, a walkathon held on October 3, 2026, at Hatirjheel, Dhaka, to mark World Heart Day 2026. The initiative brought together consumers, professionals, influencers and community members to raise awareness about heart health and encourage regular walking as part of a healthy, active lifestyle. The initiative... Details

Net govt borrowing rises by Tk13,000cr

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 18:08:57 +0600

The government's reliance on bank borrowing to finance its operating and development expenditure has grown further. From the beginning of the current FY27, significant pressure appeared in budget income-and-expenditure accounts—a strain that has become more evident over time. With domestic revenue collection falling short of target and foreign disbursement slowing down, the government... Details

Savings certificate sales surge 57% in two months

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 18:00:06 +0600

Interest in investing in savings certificates (Sanchayapatra) is on the rise. In July and August of the current FY27, savings certificate sales reached Tk2,463.12 crore. During the same period of the previous fiscal year, sales stood at Tk1,572.29 crore. This marks a nearly 57% increase in sales over the two-month period compared to a year earlier. According to data from the National Savings... Details

Remittance inflows up over 15% in current FY27

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 17:55:39 +0600

Bangladesh has received $8.798 billion in remittances so far in FY27, sent to the country between July 1 and October 3. This represents a 15.1% increase compared to the $7.643 billion received during the same period of the previous fiscal year. Executive spokesperson of Bangladesh Bank Arief Hossain Khan confirmed the data on Sunday (October 4). He noted that the significant growth in... Details

Experts: Bangladesh poultry must shift from volume to value

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 17:48:55 +0600

Speakers at the International Technical Seminar 2026 organized by the World's Poultry Science Association – Bangladesh Branch (WPSA-BB) emphasized that Bangladesh's poultry sector must move beyond a volume-centric mindset and focus on farm profitability, food safety, climate resilience, and internationally credible standards. Held under the theme "Resilient Poultry Production for Global... Details

Berger Paints 44th National Women’s Chess Championship begins

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 17:38:14 +0600

The Berger Paints 44th National Women’s ‘B’ Chess Championship 2026 officially commenced on Saturday, October 3, at the Bangladesh Chess Federation. Sponsored by Berger Paints Bangladesh Limited and organized by the Bangladesh Chess Federation, the event brings together 73 players from 22 districts. Salahuddin Ahmed, chief marketing officer of Berger Paints Bangladesh... Details

Midland Bank converts Banani branch into full-fledged Islami banking branch

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 17:32:39 +0600

Midland Bank PLC. (MDB) has transformed its Banani branch into a full-fledged Islami banking branch, aiming to broaden access to Shariah-compliant banking services. Imtiaz U Ahmed, managing director of Midland Bank PLC, officially inaugurated the Banani Islami banking branch along with members of the bank's Shariah supervisory committee: Mufti Muhammad Abu Sayeed Khan (chairman), Abu Yousuf... Details

Fantasy Kingdom Complex receives Bangladesh Tourism Award 2026

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 00:09:55 +0600

Concord Entertainment Co. Ltd., a concern of Concord Group and the operator of Fantasy Kingdom Complex, Ashulia, Savar, Dhaka, has been honored with the “Best Amusement Park of the Year” award at the Bangladesh Tourism Award 2026, organized by the Bangladesh Tourism Board under the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. The award was presented at a ceremony held on October 3 at... Details

Imported fruits becoming a luxury in Bangladesh

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 22:55:50 +0600

In Dhaka's market, the price of one kilogram of sweet orange (Malta) is currently Tk520 to Tk550. During the same period, it sells for Tk100 to Tk160 in India, Tk80 to Tk130 in Pakistan, Tk130 to Tk180 in Nepal, and Tk300 to Tk400 in Sri Lanka. This means the price of this fruit in Bangladesh is up to seven times higher than in neighboring countries. This extreme price disparity... Details

Community Bank launches BO account opening facility on Community Cash App

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 19:21:32 +0600

Community Bank Bangladesh PLC has introduced a new facility on its digital banking platform, Community Cash, enabling customers to apply for opening Beneficiary Owner (BO) accounts directly through the app. The new facility is expected to make the process of accessing investment opportunities in Bangladesh’s capital market more convenient, faster and easier for the bank’s... Details

Govt targets NPL recovery with new Distressed Asset Law

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 19:18:41 +0600

The government is formulating a new legal framework titled the Distressed Asset Management Act, 2026 to accelerate the recovery of non-performing loans (NPLs) and manage long-stagnant assets in banks and non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs). Stakeholder feedback on the draft has already been collected. If a borrower fails to clear dues within a stipulated timeframe, specialized asset... Details

Ahmed Shaheen joins Mercantile Bank as AMD

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 17:09:55 +0600

Renowned banker Ahmed Shaheen has joined Mercantile Bank PLC as additional managing director (AMD). Prior to his new role, he served as additional managing director at Eastern Bank PLC (EBL), where he drove significant advancements in the bank. With a distinguished career spanning over 33 years in the Bangladesh banking industry, Ahmed Shaheen is widely recognized as a strategic leader... Details

Savor International wins ‘Best Mice Initiative 2026’ award

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 17:03:49 +0600

Savor International Limited has received the “Best Mice Initiative 2026” award at the Bangladesh Tourism Award 2026, organized by the Bangladesh Tourism Board. The award ceremony was held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center, Agargaon, Dhaka. The recognition was awarded to Renex 2026 – Renewable Energy Exhibition, a key part of the 11th edition of Safecon.... Details

Pubali Bank, United Healthcare to launch credit card, banking product sales campaign

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 17:01:42 +0600

Pubali Bank PLC and United Healthcare Services Ltd. recently inaugurated a Credit Card and other banking products sales campaign. On the occasion, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed between the two organizations to strengthen collaboration and provide enhanced banking benefits and services to customers. Md Shahnewaz Khan, deputy managing director of Pubali Bank PLC, and... Details

Grameen HealthTech champion under ‘Inclusion & Community Services’ in BIIN Awards 2026

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 16:57:55 +0600

Shukhee, the AI-enabled, patient-centric and interoperable digital healthcare application and community-care ecosystem developed by Grameen HealthTech Limited, has won the Bangladesh ICT & Innovation Network (BIIN) Awards in the "Inclusion & Community Services" category for delivering affordable and continuous healthcare to rural and underserved communities. Held on October 3 at Brac... Details

High operational costs leave restaurants scrambling for survival

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 16:45:56 +0600

Rising prices of key food ingredients and essential utilities—including electricity, gas, and LPG—alongside surging rents, wages, and transport fees, are pushing restaurant owners across the country to the brink. Compounding the problem, reduced consumer purchasing power has driven restaurant sales down by up to 30%, making it increasingly difficult for many establishments to stay... Details

Khasru: Bangladesh facing multiple economic headwinds

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 16:45:13 +0600

Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has noted that the national economy is navigating a series of tough challenges, with persistent inflation directly squeezing the purchasing power of everyday citizens. Key domestic hurdles include a low tax-to-GDP ratio, a crisis of confidence in the banking sector, an urgent need to drive investment and job creation, and heightened global economic... Details

Uttara Motors inaugurates flagship Bajaj dealer showroom in Mohammadpur

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 16:39:35 +0600

New Bajaj Collection, an authorized 3S (Sales, Service & Spare Parts) dealer of Uttara Motors Limited, has inaugurated a state-of-the-art flagship showroom in Mohammadpur, Dhaka. The inauguration ceremony was graced by Humayun Kabir, director (finance & marketing- 2W), as chief guest, along with AM Sazzad Hossain, COO, Bajaj Division of Uttara Motors Ltd, guests, customers, members of... Details

IDLC Purnota Utshob 2026 celebrates women entrepreneurs, homegrown businesses

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 16:33:01 +0600

IDLC Finance PLC, in collaboration with Adda Chole, successfully concluded their unique lifestyle exhibition IDLC Purnota Utshob 2026 ft. Adda Chole at Aloki, Dhaka. The two-day event brought together over a hundred women entrepreneurs from diverse business sectors, along with promising domestic brands, customers and visitors, for a celebration of homegrown entrepreneurship, creativity and... Details

Explainer: Rise in Taka’s value risks Bangladesh’s export competitiveness

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 00:48:48 +0600

A recent rise in the Taka’s exchange rate is raising concerns that local exports could lose their price advantage in global markets. According to central bank data, Bangladesh’s Real Effective Exchange Rate (Reer) climbed 1.39% in August to reach 105.37. The Reer compares the Taka against a basket of 17 major trading partners, adjusted for inflation and trade volume. Any reading... Details

What Bangladesh Bank’s policy rate means for your wallet

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 23:23:25 +0600

When Bangladesh Bank announced it was keeping its main interest rate fixed at 9.50%, the economic jargon might have sounded like abstract policy talk. But behind that single percentage point is a decision that hits close to home—influencing everything from your monthly grocery budget to your chance at a salary raise. Here is a breakdown of what this policy rate is, why the central bank... Details

BB expands export pre-shipment refinance fund to Tk7,000cr

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 17:47:36 +0600

Bangladesh Bank has expanded its pre-shipment credit refinance facility for export-oriented industries from Tk5,000 crore to Tk7,000 crore, while raising the maximum customer-level interest rate on new loans from 5% to 6%. The central bank announced the decision in a circular issued by its Banking Regulation and Policy Department-1 on Thursday, stating that the measure aims to sustain export... Details

Bank Asia, BB sign participation agreements for green industries, ICT financing

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 16:22:38 +0600

Bank Asia PLC has signed two participation agreements with Bangladesh Bank, becoming a participating financial institution (PFI) under the central bank’s refinance schemes for green factory buildings and industries and ICT sector development. AKM Nurunnabi, director of the Sustainable Finance Department of Bangladesh Bank, and Sohail RK Hussain, managing director of Bank Asia, signed the... Details

'Konka Shera Poribar' returns with Season 5

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 15:40:07 +0600

Family reality game show ‘Konka Shera Poribar’, sponsored by Konka is returning for its 5th season. Following the popularity of its previous four seasons, the upcoming season promises an engaging mix of puzzles, brain games, fun challenges, celebrity appearances, and brand-new segments. The official announcement of Season 5 was made Saturday, October 3, 2026, during a press... Details

Corporate Amateur Premier League 2026 (Season 4) from October 16

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 21:12:59 +0600

With the trophy unveiled, the captains assembled and eight teams ready to compete, the Corporate Amateur Premier League (CAPL) 2026 is set to return for its fourth season, beginning October 16 and running through December. The season officially moved into its final build-up phase with the CAPL 2026 Captains’ Meet and Trophy Unveiling ceremony, held at Shinepukur Suites, bringing together... Details

JCI Dhaka Sparks signs strategic partnership with Gold’s Gym Bangladesh

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 20:51:04 +0600

JCI Dhaka Sparks signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gold’s Gym Bangladesh on behalf of JCI Bangladesh. The official signing ceremony took place at Gold’s Gym Bangladesh’s Bashundhara R/A premises, marking a significant milestone in fostering health, fitness, and active lifestyles among youth leaders and organization members. The agreement... Details

Remittance slows in September amid 13.3% Q1’FY27 growth

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 00:02:11 +0600

Remittance inflows to Bangladesh were timid in September, with expatriates sending home $2.77 billion—the lowest monthly amount in 11 months. It was 3% higher than the $2.69 billion received in September last year, according to updated Bangladesh Bank data on Thursday. The slowdown marks a break from the record-setting pace seen earlier in the year. Remittances had exceeded $3 billion... Details

Exports up over 6% to $13.1bn in Q1 of FY27

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 23:57:24 +0600

Bangladesh’s merchandise export earnings grew 6.34% to $13.094 billion in the first quarter (July–September) of the current FY27, according to the latest data released by the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). During the corresponding period of FY26, export earnings stood at $ 12.313 billion. In September 2026 alone, single-month export earnings rose 8.54% year-on-year to $3.937... Details

Mandatory BIN: Small entrepreneurs trapped in red tape

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 18:30:40 +0600

A new requirement mandating a business identification number (BIN) to open business bank accounts and secure expansion loans has hit cottage, micro, small, and medium enterprises (CMSMEs) hard. Effective from the current fiscal year, the rule has created significant operational hurdles for small business owners who lack a BIN, restricting their access to routine banking services and credit.... Details

Daily smart TV winning opportunity by paying utility bills thru bKash

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 18:12:13 +0600

Customers can now win a 43-inch smart television every day by paying utility bills through bKash. Throughout the first half of October, every day a customer will be awarded the prize for highest amount of bill payment. Additionally, the first customer to settle a bill every minute between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm daily will receive cashback. Customers paying electricity, gas, water, internet,... Details

Cashless Bangladesh promotional campaign held at Banani Kacha Bazar

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 18:09:26 +0600

A “Cashless Bangladesh” Promotional Campaign was held on Thursday, October 1, at Banani Kacha Bazar, Dhaka, to promote digital payments and raise public awareness about Bangla QR. Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, MP, Minister for Finance and Planning, inaugurated the program as chief guest. Md Ahteshamul Haque Khan, managing director & CEO of Dutch-Bangla Bank, was also present... Details

FY26 VAT collection: 85% LTUs fail to meet target

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 15:06:08 +0600

Around 85% of large corporate taxpayers, including cigarette, cement, gas, and mobile-phone companies, failed to meet the government's value-added tax (VAT) targets last FY26 amid sluggish business environment and lower-than-expected consumption. Of the 34 business sectors under the VAT Large Taxpayers Unit (VAT-LTU), 29 missed their respective targets, according to the latest provisional... Details

Khasru: No fee on using Bangla QR

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 15:01:49 +0600

Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury on Thursday said transactions through Bangla QR codes will be completely free of charge as the government moves to build a cashless Bangladesh and a digital economy. "There will be no fee or charge for transactions through Bangla QR. Any transaction made through the QR code will be completely free, with no additional cost," he said. The minister... Details

ONE Bank gets regulatory approval for Tk400cr subordinated bond

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 01:06:18 +0600

ONE Bank PLC has received approval from the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) for the issuance of Tk400 crore subordinated bond with a tenure of seven years. The unsecured, non-convertible, fully redeemable and floating-rate bond has received all the regulatory approvals. The proceeds from the issuance will strengthen the bank’s capital base and support its... Details

Islami Bank launches cyber security awareness campaign

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:58:51 +0600

Islami Bank has launched a month-long “Cyber Security Awareness” campaign. M Kamal Uddin Jasim, managing director (current charge) of Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC, inaugurated the campaign as the chief guest at a ceremony held at Islami Bank Tower on September 30, Wednesday. Mohammad Rezaul Karim, executive vice president, presided over the event, while SM Mizanur... Details

BB: 18-month plan underway to reduce NPLs

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 17:59:48 +0600

The government and Bangladesh Bank have jointly initiated an 18-month plan to reduce non-performing loans (NPLs) and restore discipline to the financial sector. The strategy focuses on accelerating bad debt recovery, introducing new loan repayment mechanisms, and implementing structural banking reforms. Details of the comprehensive plan will be published soon. The announcement was made by... Details

Bangla QR to launch P2P transactions from November 1

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 17:58:18 +0600

Bangladesh Bank has announced that Person-to-Person (P2P) transactions via "Bangla QR" will officially launch on November 1 later this year. This service will allow users to seamlessly transfer funds to another individual by scanning a Bangla QR code or uploading an image of a QR code through their respective mobile applications. The announcement was made on Wednesday (September 30) during a... Details

BB retains policy rate at 9.50% in latest MPS

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 17:53:53 +0600

Bangladesh Bank has decided to keep its key policy interest rate unchanged as inflation risks, despite recent easing, remain significant. In its latest quarterly Monetary Policy Statement (MPS) for the October–December 2026 period, the central bank maintained the repo rate at 9.50% while deciding to observe the evolving economic situation with a cautious stance. The announcement was... Details

MCCI: Remittances, other inflows lead Bangladesh to $6.6bn BoP surplus

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 17:46:44 +0600

Strong external sector performance, driven by a historical surge in remittances and robust financial account inflows, enabled Bangladesh to achieve a record Balance of Payments (BoP) overall surplus of $6.61 billion in FY26. However, domestic business activity remained subdued due to high inflation, elevated borrowing costs, and structural constraints, according to the latest report released... Details

ICB’s golden jubilee: From five decades of trust to a new era of capacity

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 17:43:06 +0600

Investment Corporation of Bangladesh (ICB) is completing five decades of its journey in Bangladesh’s investment and capital market landscape. Established on October 1, 1976, the state-owned financial institution has played an important role in transforming savings into investment, providing capital to industry and business through bridge financing, and contributing to the development of... Details

Power Ministry, HSBC & Carbon Trust initiate National Energy Study

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 17:35:38 +0600

The Power Division under Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, HSBC and The Carbon Trust gathered to initiate the proposed “National Energy Study for Bangladesh”, a study aimed at supporting the country’s long-term energy security and transition towards a more sustainable and resilient energy system. The meeting was chaired by KM Ali Reza, additional secretary,... Details

Know Glow & Lovely Bangladesh more on Instagram, Facebook

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 17:30:57 +0600

Glow & Lovely is one of Bangladesh’s leading skincare brands, with a long-standing presence in the country and a continued focus on helping women feel confident and empowered through effective skincare solutions. The brand has evolved significantly over the years, introducing new product innovations and modern skincare propositions designed to meet the changing needs of today’s... Details

Honor introduces its connected ecosystem vision at Honor Connect

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 16:37:00 +0600

Honor Bangladesh showcased its latest developments in AI and connected technology at Honor Connect on September 29. Held at the United Convention Center in Dhaka, the event highlighted the company’s expansion beyond smartphones into a broader connected ecosystem. The Robot Phone made its local introduction at the event, alongside the unveiling of its new brand logo. The program centered... Details

ACI Wellness & Hygiene redesignates Khandaker Ishtiak Ahmed as COO

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 16:33:29 +0600

Khandaker Ishtiak Ahmed has been redesignated as chief operating officer of ACI's Wellness and Hygiene business. With two decades of experience in various roles at local and multinational companies, Ishtiak has played a pivotal role in building and expanding ACI PLC's hygiene products business. In his new role, he will focus on expanding ACI PLC's presence in the consumer wellness and hygiene... Details

Daraz Bangladesh extends support to flood-affected families beyond immediate relief

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 16:29:18 +0600

Bangladesh has always lived with water. The monsoon feeds its fields and shapes its villages, and every so often floodwaters leave homes, possessions and livelihoods damaged in their wake. Emergency relief may address the immediate need, but for affected families, recovery continues long after the water recedes. Over 12 years in Bangladesh, Daraz has built a nationwide ecosystem connecting... Details

Gold prices rise

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 10:40:00 +0600

Under the new rates, 22-carat hallmarked gold is priced at Tk19,785 per gram Details

Islami Bank Hospital observes World Heart Day

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 09:04:31 +0600

Marking World Heart Day 2026 with the theme “Don’t Miss a Beat,” Islami Bank Hospital & Cardiac Center, Mirpur, organized a rally and discussion meeting to raise awareness about heart health. The rally started from the premises of Islami Bank Hospital & Cardiac Center, Mirpur, on Tuesday, September 29. Following the rally, a discussion meeting on heart disease... Details

PPEPP-EU project brings sustainable changes to lives, livelihoods of 215,000 poor families

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 08:51:05 +0600

Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation’s (PKSF) Pathways to Prosperity for Extremely Poor People–European Union (PPEPP-EU) project has made a significant contribution to improving the incomes, assets, nutrition, financial inclusion, and resilience of extremely poor people living in climate-vulnerable and hard-to-reach areas of Bangladesh. Through an integrated approach combining... Details

Rising feed ingredient costs threaten poultry industry

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:43:03 +0600

A sharp price hike in essential feed raw materials has pushed Bangladesh’s poultry industry into severe distress. Over the last month alone, costs for crucial feed ingredients—including corn, de-oiled rice bran (DORB), rice bran, and soybean meal—have escalated sharply. Md Ramzan, a poultry retailer at Central Road in the capital, said: "I sold broiler chicken at Tk200 per... Details

Salman F Rahman removed from Beximco Pharma board

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:27:18 +0600

Salman F Rahman, vice chairman of Beximco Pharmaceuticals and former private industry and investment adviser to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, has been excluded from the company's board of directors. The capital market regulator, Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC), approved the newly reconstituted board of directors excluding him. The reconstituted board was approved... Details

ADB, Modern Syntex sign $50m loan to expand polyester chips production

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 18:24:31 +0600

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Modern Syntex Limited (MSL) on Tuesday signed a $50 million loan for the Modern Energy-Efficient Polyester Chips Manufacturing Project in Bangladesh. The financing will support MSL's expansion of polyester chips production capacity from 107 tonnes to 407 tonnes per day and refinance short-term local working capital loans. The expanded facility will produce... Details

Southeast Bank unveils MFS platform TeleCash

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 17:59:05 +0600

With a commitment to expanding financial inclusion and building a cashless or digital economy in Bangladesh, mobile financial services (MFS) provider TeleCash Limited has commenced its commercial operations. A subsidiary of Southeast Bank PLC, TeleCash Limited received the final approval from Bangladesh Bank on September 24, to commence its commercial services. To mark this achievement, an... Details

India imposes new anti-dumping duties on Bangladeshi jute products

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 17:49:48 +0600

Despite a decline in exports of Bangladeshi jute products to India in recent years, the Indian government has levied new anti-dumping duties of up to $445 per tonne on products originating from Bangladesh. A notification issued by the Indian Ministry of Finance confirmed the measure. Under the new decision, revised tariffs have been set for various items—including jute yarn/twine,... Details

Bangladesh part of region to enjoy US duty-free access for specialized medicines

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 17:41:14 +0600

The United States has made a significant shift in its international trade policy. Washington has exempted specified specialized medicines and related ingredients imported from 20 partner countries and regions, including Bangladesh and India, from import tariffs. This decision comes at a time when the US is moving forward with a process to impose a 100% tariff on certain patented pharmaceutical... Details

Labaid celebrates World Heart Day

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 17:28:02 +0600

Marking World Heart Day with the theme “Don’t Miss a beat” Labaid Cardiac Hospital has organized a day-long “Free Cardiac Consultation” program. Under this initiative, visitors to the hospital, patients’ relatives, and general public are being given the opportunity to learn about their heart health. They can also seek advice from specialist physicians when... Details

Walton, MUN Alert launch initiative to help find missing people

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 17:23:35 +0600

Walton Plaza, the country’s largest electronics product sales and service network, has stepped forward with a new initiative to help locate missing people more quickly. In this regard, Walton Plaza, in collaboration with missing-person alert platform MUN Alert, has launched the ‘Missing Persons Broadcast’ initiative. Under the initiative, photos and essential information of... Details

Lower financing costs can offer long-awaited relief for Bangladesh's property developers

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 17:13:20 +0600

Every Friday afternoon, Arif and his wife Mita make the same journey. They visit apartment projects around Dhaka, walk through model flats and imagine what life might look like if they finally owned a place to call home. They picture their young daughter running through a small bedroom painted in bright colors. They discuss where the dining table would go and whether the balcony could hold a... Details

Strategic plan directives issued to boost Bangladesh's diversified jute sector

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 14:23:06 +0600

The Ministry of Textiles and Jute has been directed to formulate strategic plans and take immediate action for the development of Bangladesh's diversified jute products sector. The directives were issued during a high-level meeting held on Monday at the Ministry of Commerce, presided over by Commerce, Industry, and Textiles & Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir. A delegation from the... Details

Gold prices drop further

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 10:20:22 +0600

Under the new rates, 22-carat gold jewellery will cost Tk19,595 per gram Details

Govt to raise $1bn in maiden sovereign bond issue

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 20:08:11 +0600

Bangladesh is set to issue sovereign bonds in the international market for the first time. The government aims to raise $500 million to $1 billion by selling these bonds within the next three months. Following meetings with institutional investors in Europe and New York, Dhaka has received strong signals of interest. Fifteen major investment firms—including global financial giants BlackRock,... Details

IFIC Bank supports DU students with research grants, scholarships

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 18:35:44 +0600

IFIC Bank has awarded research grants and scholarships to students of the University of Dhaka as part of its initiative to promote academic research and support meritorious students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. The awards were presented at the “IFIC Bank Trust Fund Research Grant and Scholarship Award Ceremony 2026,” held on Monday, September 28, at the Conference... Details

NBR to return to monthly VAT return process

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 18:05:39 +0600

The quarterly VAT return system was introduced to simplify business operations and reduce the accounting burden on small and medium enterprises (SMEs). However, within just a few months of its implementation, the government is deciding to make a major reversal in this VAT payment rule. Although the budget for the current FY27 provided for submitting VAT returns and making payments every three... Details

BB issues guidelines for dispute resolution in Bangla QR

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 18:02:15 +0600

To make digital transactions safer, more transparent, and more customer-friendly, Bangladesh Bank has issued new guidelines for resolving disputes in Bangla QR (merchant payment) transactions. The Payment Systems Department of the central bank issued a circular in this regard yesterday. The guidelines will take effect on December 1. According to the "Guidelines on Dispute Resolution for... Details

BB permits purchase of foreign airline tickets via credit cards

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 17:59:12 +0600

Bangladesh Bank has allowed passengers to purchase tickets for foreign airlines operating in Bangladesh directly using international credit and debit cards. As a result, in addition to traditional banking channels or travel agencies, passengers will now be able to pay for tickets directly using international cards. On Monday (September 28), the Foreign Exchange Policy Department (FEPD-1) of... Details

Govt drafts market-specific export strategies for 18 key destinations

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 17:56:02 +0600

The government is preparing an integrated strategy to diversify both products and markets, aiming to boost export earnings and reduce the country's heavy dependence on ready-made garments (RMG). Under the initiative, separate market-based export strategies are being drafted for 18 key trading destinations worldwide, based on an analysis of market potential, existing barriers, competitors'... Details

Pakistan envoy discusses bilateral trade with MCCI president

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 17:45:03 +0600

Kamran T Rahman, president, Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), received Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Haider at the MCCI head office Monday. The two sides discussed developing institutional linkages of MCCI with regional chambers of commerce and industry in Pakistan, organizing Business-to-Business meetings and reciprocal participation in exhibitions. They... Details

Community Bank celebrates 7th anniversary

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 17:41:46 +0600

Community Bank Bangladesh PLC. marked seven years of financial service with a grand anniversary event at Hotel InterContinental Dhaka, unveiling new retail products and declaring a strategic commitment to technology-driven, customer-centric, and sustainable growth under the theme ‘Transform, Growth & Sustainability’. The celebration brought together senior government officials,... Details

Akij Insaf Diagnostic and Consultation Center begins journey

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 17:32:51 +0600

Akij Insaf Diagnostic and Consultation Center officially opened on September 27 at Satmasjid Road, Dhanmondi 27, Dhaka. The center brings together advanced healthcare, modern diagnostic facilities and attentive service. Specialist doctors and distinguished healthcare professionals from across the country attended the opening ceremony, alongside SK Jamil Uddin, managing director of Akij Insaf,... Details

EBL signs two participation agreements with BB

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 09:51:50 +0600

Eastern Bank PLC (EBL) has signed two participation agreements with Bangladesh Bank to provide customers with financing at preferential interest rates under two of the central bank’s refinancing schemes. AKM Nurunnabi, director, Sustainable Finance Department, Bangladesh Bank, and Hasan O Rashid, chief executive officer, Eastern Bank PLC, signed the agreements on behalf of their respective... Details

Primitek Water Pump signs Irfan Sajjad for advertising campaign

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 17:28:08 +0600

Primitek Water Pump has signed popular Actor Irfan Sajjad as its advertising model. The agreement was formally signed at an event recently held at the corporate headquarters of Primitek Group in Gulshan, Dhaka. Following the signing, Irfan Sajjad said: “I am impressed by Primitek Water Pump’s advanced technology, durability and quality. I am delighted to be associated with a... Details

Gold prices drop further

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 11:00:00 +0600

The new prices came into effect at 10am on Monday Details

PKSF to provide Tk7,245cr in financing for microenterprises, solar power

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 23:07:06 +0600

Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) has taken an initiative to provide a total of Tk7,245 crore in financing to promote renewable energy use and foster new entrepreneurship in the cottage and microenterprise sectors. Of the total amount, Tk500 crore will be allocated for expanding rooftop solar power generation, said a press release. The decisions were taken at a meeting... Details

‘bKash Forest’ initiative launched in Khulna to support environmental protection

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 22:50:58 +0600

A forestation program has been launched in Khulna under the ‘bKash Forest’, which enables customers to contribute to real world tree planting by growing virtual trees through their digital transactions. Khulna City Corporation and bKash jointly inaugurated the program by planting trees at Solar Park and Linear Park in the city. Shaikh Faridul Islam, State Minister for... Details

Experts: Rules for tobacco control law must be formulated without delay

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 22:47:28 +0600

“Rules are essential to make the provisions of any law effective. Therefore, following the amendment of the tobacco control law, it is imperative that the rules be formulated at the earliest possible time,” said members of the Women’s Forums Against Tobacco. The speakers made the remarks at a discussion meeting titled ‘Tobacco Control Amended Act 2026: Expectations and... Details

Pakistan, BKMEA for stronger Pak-Bangladesh textile ties

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 22:53:52 +0600

In a bid to deepen trade collaboration and unlock supply chain synergies, High Commissioner of Pakistan Imran Haider met with Mohammad Hatem, President of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), at the association’s Dhaka office today. The high-level bilateral session, attended by several BKMEA directors, focused on accelerating joint initiatives under the... Details

Standard Chartered Bangladesh, ICAB unveil priority banking for chartered accountants

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 18:20:59 +0600

Standard Chartered Bangladesh has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB) to introduce an exclusive Priority Banking proposition for eligible ICAB members. Chartered Accountants play a vital role in ensuring good governance, transparency, sustainable growth and bring positive changes to the economy. Designed to recognize the... Details

Sunsilk Bangladesh launches new brand relaunch campaign

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 18:06:28 +0600

Sunsilk Bangladesh has unveiled its new brand relaunch campaign. Featuring a new formulation, new packaging and the new Silky Smooth variant, the campaign introduces several updates across Sunsilk’s product portfolio while also refreshing the brand experience for consumers. A key focus of the campaign is the refreshed range of Sunsilk’s core variants. Alongside changes to the... Details

BB warns against 22 unauthorized online payment platforms

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 18:59:37 +0600

Bangladesh Bank on Sunday issued a public warning notice identifying 22 unlicensed online payment platforms operating in the country and urging the public to refrain from using or participating in their activities. According to the central bank's Payment Systems Supervision Department, providing payment services or operating a payment system without a valid license from Bangladesh Bank... Details

JCI Dhaka Sparks convenes 3rd general members' meeting 2026

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 17:56:37 +0600

JCI Dhaka Sparks convened its 3rd General Members' Meeting (GMM) of 2026 on September 26 at the Sirajul Alam Khan Centre and Research Institute in Dhaka. Local President Raihan Ahmed Dip chaired the assembly, which gathered over 75% of the board of directors alongside national leaders and visiting chapter presidents. A primary highlight of the meeting was the official launch of the "Green... Details

NRB Bank, MetLife renew partnership for 8th consecutive year

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 17:37:13 +0600

NRB Bank PLC has renewed its partnership with MetLife Bangladesh for the eighth consecutive year to provide enhanced insurance protection benefits for eligible credit cardholders. Under the agreement, the bank's eligible credit cardholders will receive insurance coverage designed to help settle the outstanding balance on their credit cards in the event of death or permanent disability, subject... Details

UCB’s ARFL wins ‘Project of the Year’ award for digital innovation

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 17:34:27 +0600

United Commercial Bank PLC (UCB) has achieved a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey as its Agri Rural Fast Loan (ARFL) initiative has been named Champion Project of the Year, Information Technology (Medium Category) at the Bangladesh Project Management Symposium & Awards 2026. The event was recently organized by the Project Management Institute (PMI),... Details

2 new independent directors join Southeast Bank board

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 17:32:31 +0600

The 799th meeting of the board of directors of Southeast Bank PLC was held at the board room of the bank’s head office in Dilkusha. The meeting was chaired by MA Kashem, founder and chairman of Southeast Bank PLC. The meeting held detailed discussions on various important matters concerning the bank and took necessary decisions accordingly. At the meeting, Justice Md Azizul Haque and... Details

Explainer: How digital banks actually operate

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 17:18:03 +0600

Bangladesh Bank has taken a major step toward making the banking system more accessible, technology-driven, and inclusive. As part of fully modernizing the country's financial sector, five institutions have been given preliminary approval to operate digital banks. Out of 12 applications scrutinized, four new institutions have been issued a 'Letter of Intent' (LoI), according to Bangladesh... Details

BB governor: Int’l agreements being signed to identify, freeze laundered assets

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 17:10:44 +0600

Initiatives have been taken to amend the "Distressed Asset Management Act" and the "Money Loan Court Act" to allow for judicial settlement within six months in order to curb defaulted loans and money laundering, announced Bangladesh Bank governor Md Mostaqur Rahman. He stated that agreements are being made at the international level to identify and freeze assets laundered out of the country.... Details

NBR adopts 3-R strategy to raise revenue collection

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 17:06:43 +0600

National Board of Revenue (NBR) has framed a 3-R (Recovery, Restoration and Reconstruction) strategy to harness revenue collection by overcoming the existing challenges. Under the strategy, investment in tax administration, skill development, system interoperability, risk management, taxpayer service, technology and compliance would act as catalysts in harnessing the realization of challenging... Details

Economy suffers from shortage of fresh Taka notes

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 19:30:16 +0600

There is a severe shortage of new banknotes of all denominations in the market. In contrast, the market is currently flooded with torn, damaged, punctured, and dirty unusable notes. Although Bangladesh Bank releases new notes somewhat regularly, supply remains far short of demand. Added to this is a shortage of low-denomination notes. Bank customers, shopkeepers, and shoppers in the market... Details

Foreign aid disbursement drops to $295m in July-August

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 16:51:24 +0600

Bangladesh’s foreign project aid disbursement dropped sharply by more than 60% year-on-year to $294.56 million in the first two months of the current fiscal year, according to provisional data from the Economic Relations Division (ERD). According to the ERD’s Foreign Assistance Monthly Report for FY27, Bangladesh received $294.56 million in project assistance disbursement during... Details