United News of Bangladesh

DHS Motors Limited, the official distributor of GAC Motor vehicles in Bangladesh, has officially launched the electric vehicle (EV) brand AION at the 19th Dhaka Motor Show. The AION brand is ranked among the top three in sales in the highly competitive EV markets of Thailand and China. It has also been ranked number one in China’s vehicle quality ratings for three consecutive years. The showcase featured two new EV models — AION Y and AION V. The models are known for their advanced features, premium comfort, spacious interiors and strong driving range. The AION Y offers a range of 430km per charge, while the AION V provides up to 485km per charge, drawing strong interest from visitors at the exhibition. A special introductory offer was announced during the motor show. The AION Y is priced at Tk 50 lakh, while the AION V is available at Tk 62 lakh. DHS said the introduction of AION reflects its commitment to advancing the electrification of Bangladesh’s automobile industry and supporting environmental sustainability. Alongside AION, other GAC models — EMKOO, EMZOOM and E9 — were also displayed at the event. The ultra-luxury MPV GAC E9, launched at last year’s motor show, has attracted significant attention for its comfort and premium features. The EMKOO and EMZOOM crossover SUVs have also gained popularity among younger customers due to their design, features and performance. Special offer prices were also announced for these models, with EMZOOM priced at Tk 40 lakh, EMKOO at Tk 45 lakh, and E9 at Tk 1.16 crore.

The country’s first “Made in Bangladesh” electric vehicle (EV) has been unveiled by Bangladesh Auto Industries Limited (BAIL), at an auto show in Dhaka. At the exhibition, BAIL introduced three indigenous EV brands: MEV (four-wheel passenger and cargo vehicles), Glyder (motorbikes) and Otomax (three-wheelers). Multiple prototype models of each brand were displayed. The company said it aims to offer affordable, environment-friendly, internationally standard locally manufactured EVs with a five-year warranty. It also claimed that fuel and maintenance costs for consumers could be reduced by up to 80 percent through its EVs. BAIL further stated that it will provide dedicated after-sales service and spare parts support to ensure a strong user experience. Product delivery is expected within three months, with pre-booking to start soon. The company also expressed expectations that the upcoming national budget for 2026–27 would have a positive impact on locally manufactured vehicle pricing. BAIL Managing Director Mir Masud Kabir said customer support and reliability are central to the company’s strategy. “For us, the most important thing is providing customer support, and we will do our utmost to ensure the highest level of service and reliability,” he said. “We are trying to offer customers good-quality products at a very affordable price. We are preparing to play a significant role in developing the EV ecosystem nationwide,” he added. The exhibition, organised by CEMS-Global USA, opened on Thursday and concluded at 7pm on Saturday at the International Convention City Bashundhara, featuring more than 70 companies from over 10 countries and around 200 booths.

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has urged Bangladesh Bank to strengthen policy support and extend key deadlines to help the readymade garment (RMG) sector cope with ongoing multidimensional challenges. A BGMEA delegation led by Director Majumder Arifur Rahman made the request during a meeting with Bangladesh Bank Deputy Governor Dr. Md. Kabir Ahmed at the central bank headquarters on Wednesday, according to a press release issued on Thursday. The association specifically called for an amendment to BRPD Circular-07/2025, seeking to extend the eligibility period for policy support for defaulted accounts from November 2025 to March 31, 2026. BGMEA representatives said the extension would enable struggling and “sick” industrial units to access necessary support and resume normal operations. They added that such measures could also help reduce non-performing loans (NPLs) in the banking sector and improve overall financial stability. The delegation further urged the central bank to issue mandatory directives to commercial banks to ensure proper implementation of the announced policy support. It noted that many eligible factories are missing out on benefits due to delays or lapses in execution by banks. The BGMEA delegation requested more time for closed factories to apply for reopening. While welcoming the government’s initiative to revive shuttered units, the association stressed the need for additional time to collect and verify accurate data from affected businesses to ensure a transparent and effective rehabilitation process. Deputy Governor Dr. Md. Kabir Ahmed assured the delegation that the central bank would consider the proposals and take appropriate steps. Former BGMEA Vice President Shahidul Islam, PR and Publicity Committee Chairman Masud Kabir, and senior officials from the Bangladesh Bank’s Banking Regulation and Policy Department (BRPD) were present.

The price of gold in Bangladesh has been reduced by Tk 3,266 per bhori, with the new rate for 22-carat gold set at Tk 246,927, according to the Bangladesh Jeweller’s Association (BAJUS). In a notice issued on Thursday morning, BAJUS said the decision to lower the price was taken following a decline in the price of pure gold in the local market and considering the overall market situation. Under the revised rates, the price of 22-carat gold has been fixed at Tk 246,927 per bhori (11.664 grams). The price of 21-carat gold has been reduced by Tk 3,149 to Tk 235,671 per bhori, while 18-carat gold has been cut by Tk 2,683 to Tk 202,020 per bhori. The price of gold under the traditional method has been lowered by Tk 2,216 to Tk 164,521 per bhori. BAJUS last adjusted gold prices on April 15, when it increased the price of 22-carat gold by Tk 2,216 per bhori to Tk 250,193. So far in 2026, gold prices in the country have been adjusted 56 times, including 32 increases and 24 decreases. Alongside gold, the price of silver has also been reduced in the local market. The price of 22-carat silver has been cut by Tk 350 to Tk 5,715 per bhori. The price of 21-carat silver has been set at Tk 5,424 per bhori, while 18-carat silver now costs Tk 4,666 per bhori. Silver under the traditional method has been fixed at Tk 3,499 per bhori. In 2026 so far, silver prices have been adjusted 35 times in the domestic market, with 19 increases and 16 decreases.

Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) on Wednesday submitted a set of proposals for FY2026-27 national budget to NBR, calling for tax relief, automation, and wide-ranging reforms to improve the business climate and strengthen revenue mobilisation. The proposals were formally presented at the NBR in the morning as part of the chamber’s recommendations ahead of the upcoming national budget. The chamber prepared the recommendations focusing on strengthening revenue collection capacity, creating a business-supportive environment, lowering the tax burden, and promoting investment in productive sectors to boost employment. DCCI said it submitted a total of 54 proposals for inclusion in the FY2026-27 national budget, highlighting 16 key recommendations covering income tax, VAT, customs, automation of tax administration, and measures to facilitate businesses and investment. The chamber emphasised expansion of the tax base and simplification of tax structure as core objectives. It proposed business-friendly tax policies, automation of tax administration, reforms in value-added tax (VAT) systems, protection for local industries and simplification of import duty and tariff structures. Among the major income tax proposals, DCCI recommended increasing the tax-free income threshold and restructuring tax slabs. Under the proposal, income up to Tk 500,000 would remain tax-free, followed by 5% tax on the next Tk 200,000, 10% on the next Tk 300,000, 15% on the next Tk 400,000, 20% on the next Tk 500,000, and 25% on the remaining income. The chamber argued that the change would encourage new taxpayers to enter the tax net and help expand the tax base. It also said the revised structure would ease the burden on low-income and lower-middle-income earners and stimulate economic activity. DCCI proposed reducing the tax rate for non-listed companies from 27.5% to 25%, particularly for firms complying with banking transactions and other compliance requirements. It also recommended maintaining strict revenue reporting conditions, requiring all receipts to be received through banking channels or digital payments. The chamber noted that while only about 350 companies are listed, the number of non-listed companies is significantly higher, and reducing the tax rate would encourage business expansion and motivate firms to move toward listing. It said Bangladesh’s tax-GDP ratio remained low at 6.7% in FY2025 and a large portion of economic activity remained outside the formal system. To address this, DCCI proposed automation of tax administration, data integration and digital filing systems. It suggested integrating databases including national ID, banking, trade licence, electricity and gas connections, vehicle registration, mobile financial services, and land ownership through a central API to automatically identify potential taxpayers and bring them under the tax net. DCCI recommended introducing an automated e-corporate tax return system, citing that corporate tax filing currently involves manual processes that are complex, time-consuming and prone to errors. The proposed platform would allow online filing, appeals and refunds, and enable automated bank transfers through BEFTN for tax refunds, reducing time and compliance costs. The chamber proposed reducing withholding tax on interest from securities to 5% and gradually exempting it entirely. It also recommended allowing taxpayers to adjust or claim refunds where excess tax is deducted. Similarly, DCCI proposed reducing withholding tax on interest from corporate deposits from 20% to 10%, with provisions for adjustment against final tax liability. It said the move would ease pressure on companies and support investment, particularly for small businesses. DCCI recommended restoring provisions similar to the Income Tax Ordinance 1984 to allow adjustment of business losses against other income, stating that current provisions increase tax burden on businesses. The chamber also proposed gradual abolition of surcharge on net wealth over three to five years instead of immediate withdrawal, arguing this would reduce “tax on tax” and ensure fairness for taxpayers with high assets but low income. The chamber proposed reducing minimum tax on turnover from 1% to 0.25% for individuals and 0.60% for entities other than individuals. It argued that minimum tax based on turnover increases business costs and should eventually be abolished so tax is levied only on profits. On VAT issues, DCCI proposed withdrawing the increase in advance tax on commercial imports from 5% to 7.5% and maintaining it at 5%, with gradual removal in future. The chamber said the higher advance tax increases working capital requirements, affects cash flow and ultimately raises consumer prices. DCCI also recommended abolishing the Tk 50,000 cap on VAT refunds and allowing full refund of negative net amounts through automated systems. It said removing the ceiling would increase working capital and support production and business expansion. The chamber proposed complete online VAT processes, including appeals, credit refunds and risk management, through the e-return portal. It also recommended a single-step VAT refund system to reduce administrative delays and improve cash flow. DCCI suggested introducing a national mobile application for VAT collection, allowing sellers to generate VAT receipts in real time using BIN numbers. The data would automatically be transmitted to NBR systems and shared with buyers via mobile or email. The chamber said such an app would increase transparency, reduce tax evasion and boost revenue collection. DCCI recommended automating customs refunds by transferring refund amounts directly to bank accounts through BEFTN or EFT instead of manual cheque payments. It said automation would reduce harassment and improve service efficiency. The chamber also proposed uniform customs valuation for stearic acid and similar chemicals instead of country-specific valuation rates. It said differing valuation based on source country creates market distortion and unfair competition. DCCI said its proposals aim to expand the tax base, improve compliance, reduce business costs, encourage investment, enhance automation, and strengthen revenue mobilisation. The chamber expects the recommendations, if implemented, to support economic growth, improve competitiveness and create employment in the upcoming fiscal year.

Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Tuesday called on Australia to scale up investment in Bangladesh's solar power sector, saying the government is actively working to create a business-friendly environment for foreign investors in renewable energy. The minister made the call during a meeting with Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Susan Ryle at the Commerce Ministry in Dhaka. The two sides held wide-ranging discussions on strengthening bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation. “The government is committed to building an investment-friendly environment and is particularly encouraging foreign investment in the renewable energy sector,” Muktadir said. He said revitalising existing industrial enterprises, establishing new industries and generating employment are among the government's top priorities. “One of our key goals is to activate industrial assets worth approximately $7 billion and attract private investment to make these sectors productive.” The minister specifically urged Australian companies to invest in Bangladesh's solar power generation sector. High Commissioner Ryle said bilateral trade between the two countries currently stands at around $5.14 billion and is growing steadily. She noted that the energy sector, particularly renewable energy, holds significant investment potential in Bangladesh, adding that a high-level Australian delegation is already reviewing opportunities for cooperation in green energy, innovation and technology. She also said that approximately 28,000 Bangladeshi students are currently studying in Australia, making it one of the most important destinations for Bangladeshi students abroad. Both sides expressed interest in expanding cooperation in trade, education and scholarships, capacity building for Commerce Ministry officials, trade negotiations and infrastructure development. Commerce Ministry Secretary (Current Charge) Md. Abdur Rahim Khan was also present at the meeting.

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has launched an official podcast series to address critical industry challenges and strengthen the "Made in Bangladesh" brand on the global stage. The series features in-depth discussions with a diverse range of stakeholders, including industry leaders, economists, bankers, and policymakers. This initiative is part of the current BGMEA Board’s broader strategy to enhance transparency, counter industry myths, and chart a progressive path for the nation’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector. The podcast covers high-priority topics essential to the country's economic future, such as: LDC Graduation: Analyzing the potential impacts and preparedness for Bangladesh's transition from the Least Developed Country status. Exchange Rate Dynamics: Discussing the implications of currency fluctuations on industrial growth and international competitiveness. Economic Governance: Providing expert recommendations to assist policymakers in making forward-looking trade and business decisions. A core objective of the series is to provide an authentic narrative of the RMG sector. Despite being the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy, the industry often faces global misperceptions. The podcast seeks to address these "misconceptions and myths" by presenting the realities of the sector in a balanced and constructive manner. The initiative was spearheaded by BGMEA Vice President (Finance) Mijanur Rahman, Director Shah Rayeed Chowdhury, and Khan Monirul Alam Shuvo, Chair of the Standing Committee on Branding. "This platform serves as an effective tool for discussing pressing issues and generating actionable insights," the leaders stated, emphasizing that the podcast offers a meaningful opportunity to present the industry in its true light to international buyers and stakeholders. Two episodes have already been aired, with several more currently in production. To ensure broad engagement, the series is being broadcast across BGMEA’s official digital channels, including YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. The series is expected to act as a vital knowledge-sharing platform, facilitating informed dialogue and constructive policy engagement for the sustained development of the RMG sector.

Bangladesh on Monday entered a new era of maritime logistics with the signing of a contract to open the MGH Terminal, the country’s first private container port, in what is being described as a ‘historic occasion’ for the maritime industry. Chairman of the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) Rear Admiral Moniruzzaman lauded the initiative and said the contract signing of the MGH Terminal is a ‘historic occasion’ for the country’s maritime industry. “By integrating private sector agility with green technology, this terminal provides vital strategic value to the Chittagong Port. I am confident MGH Terminal will set a new benchmark for vessel turnaround times and environmental responsibility that will make our exports more competitive on the global stage,” he said. The contract signing of the facility was also attended by Group CEO of MGH Anis Ahmed, and key industry stakeholders at the CPA board room. The MGH Terminal stands as a testament to Bangladesh's growing stature in international trade, promising a faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective gateway for the nation's burgeoning import-export volumes, said the company. ​To be built on seven acres of land with a 250-metre jetty, officials said, the MGH Terminal represents a paradigm shift in the country's supply chain infrastructure. With a static capacity of 3,500 TEUs and a monthly handling capability of 40,000 TEUs, the terminal is set to expand CPA’s monthly landing capacity by 102 vessels. Officials said the MGH Terminal is distinguished as Bangladesh’s first ‘Green Port,’ integrating cutting-edge sustainable technologies to minimize its environmental footprint. The facility will feature zero-emission operations, renewable energy, carbon reduction and innovative design. ​The terminal will offer a radical improvement in vessel turnaround times. Located strategically, vessels can berth at the MGH Terminal in approximately 30 minutes from the river mouth, compared to the standard 2-hour window at the main Chittagong Port, officials said. This efficiency results in significant fuel savings of 0.6 to 1.3 tons per vessel call, drastically reducing costs for international shipping lines. Group CEO of MGH​ Anis Ahmed emphasised the group's commitment to national development and said the MGH Group is investing Tk 550 crore of their own resources to build this state-of-the-art terminal. “Our focus is on absolute efficiency; while other projects like the APM Terminal at Laldia are still in development and unreasonably escalate cost of investment within Chittagong Port, MGH Terminal is designed to be leaner, faster, and more technologically advanced. We are not just moving containers; we are moving the Bangladesh economy forward,” he said. ​As one of Bangladesh's largest multinationals with operations in 26 countries including five European nations, MGH Group is leveraging its global expertise to woo Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from top-tier global companies. The terminal is expected to create tens of thousands of new jobs aligning with the economic vision of Prime Minister Tareque Rahman to build a highly efficient, modern economy, officials said.

Dhaka, April 19 (UNB) – The American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) held its 29th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday to review its activities and engage with its members. The meeting, held at a hotel in Dhaka, was chaired by AmCham President Syed Ershad Ahmed. Several members of the AmCham Executive Committee were in attendance, including Treasurer Al-Mamun M. Rashel, as well as Rashed Mujib Noman, Rubaba Dowla, and Mirza Shajib Raihan. Paul Frost, Commercial Counselor at the US Embassy in Dhaka and Adviser to AmCham Bangladesh, also attended the session, along with other distinguished members of the chamber. Chowdhury Kaiser Mohammad Riyadh, Executive Director of AmCham, was present to facilitate the proceedings. The event served as a platform for the chamber’s leadership to discuss organizational progress and future initiatives within the bilateral trade community.