United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh police on Monday announced that it would offer foreign investors direct access to its dedicated emergency contact line, enabling companies to report any incidents and receive immediate support. The announcement came from the office of the Inspector General of Police, the national police chief, when the IGP, Baharul Alam, and the executive chairman of BIDA, Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, held a meeting with officials of six foreign companies whose establishments were vandalised during recent protests over Gaza attacks. The meeting, which was co-chaired by BIDA Executive Chairman and the Inspector General of Police, brought together executives from major companies, including Nestle Bangladesh, Coca-Cola Bangladesh Beverages, Unilever Bangladesh, Bata Shoe Co. Bangladesh, Reckitt Benckiser Bangladesh, Pepsico, and Jubilant Food Works Bangladesh. DMP’s Tejgaon Division returns 251 lost, stolen mobile phones to owners Referring to the vandalism occurred on April 7-8 in several cities of the country, police said they have arrested at least 140 people over the attacks. Nearly a dozen cases were also filed over the incidents. “The presence of the IGP, senior police officials, and our BIDA team under one roof with business leaders was not only timely but unprecedented,” said Ashik Chowdhury, Executive Chairman of BIDA. “This wasn’t just a gesture—it was a statement. It shows that Bangladesh is serious about standing by its investors, especially when challenges arise,” he said. “The companies we sat with directly support the livelihood of thousands of employees and their families. We respect the right to protest, but destroying the institutions that provide jobs, stability, and growth is not the answer," he added. The BIDA chief also commended the police for "their swift support and their commitment to decisive action against those responsible for the violence.” Participating companies shared first-hand accounts of vandalism, losses, and operational breakdowns. In response, the IGP’s office has announced that it would offer dedicated emergency contact line access to affected businesses. Senior police officers said the emergency contact line would enable the companies "to report incidents and receive immediate support." IGP Baharul Alam assured business leaders of full cooperation from the country's law enforcement agencies. “We are not here just to respond. We are here to build confidence and ensure that these disruptions do not repeat,” he said. The engagement resulted in a set of jointly developed preventive action plans, including new security protocols, rapid response units, and enhanced crisis communication channels. These measures, co-created by the BIDA, the police, and business associations, aim to foster long-term trust and resilience in Bangladesh’s investment ecosystem. “This dialogue isn’t about reaction—it’s about prevention,” added BIDA Executive Chairman. DMP identifies DU arsonist, arrest expected before Pahela Baishakh procession “And more importantly, it reflects the government’s promise: to walk with our investors, not just during booms, but also during turbulence,” said Ashik Chowdhury. Corporate representatives thanked both the BIDA and the Bangladesh Police for their responsiveness and expressed renewed confidence in continuing their operations and future expansion plans in Bangladesh. This initiative is part of BIDA’s broader mission to ensure Bangladesh remains a safe, sustainable, and investor-friendly destination aligned with the priorities of the Interim Government.

Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun on Sunday said the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 helped the country receive initial investment proposals worth Tk 3,100 crore, stressing that time will say whether the Summit was successful or not. “The idea is to build the pipeline and to change the narratives about Bangladesh. That is what we tried to push,” Ashik told reporters at the Foreign Service Academy, adding that the investors who joined the Summit were very happy and they returned home with required information. Foreign investors eye consumer market, textiles, pharma, light engineering, renewable energy: BIDA Chairman He said several additional investment proposals are currently in the pipeline. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder were, among others, present.  The BIDA Executive Chairman said they wanted to give the investors the right experience so that they talk about Bangladesh positively.  “We should do such summits regularly, at least once in a year. We would definitely say, clearly there were lots of interests,” he said. Ashik said similar events will help create positive interest and momentum among the investors and hoped that the next government will continue this. bKash wins BIDA’s ‘Excellence in Investment Award 2025’ Bangladesh hosted the global investors and top executives through the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 from April 7-10, aiming to spotlight the country’s evolving investment landscape, poised for transformative opportunities and unprecedented growth. Global investment leaders, executives and industry pioneers engaged in discussion as Bangladesh redefines the future of investment in one of the world’s most dynamic markets. Foreign investors express keen interest in Bangladesh: BIDA There were 710 participants at the Summit including over 415 foreigners from 50 countries. Around Tk 5 crore was spent to organise the four-day Summit, of which around Tk 1.5 crore came from the government and the remaining Tk 3.5 crore from partner organisations. The BIDA Executive Chairman said the big political parties and their leaderships were completely aligned with the Summit.

The government is working to create startup funds from budget allocation to encourage youth in entrepreneurship. Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Ashik Chowdhury said this at a press briefing on Monday evening. He briefed reporters about the day's session of Bangladesh Startup Connect, an event being held at Hotel InterContinental as a flagship programme under the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 that opened on Monday. BIDA Chairman, CCECC President discuss potential 2nd Chinese economic zone in Mongla He said that Bangladesh Bank will release Tk800 crore from different banks’ startup funds. The central bank will also release another special fund of Tk500 crore to boost the startup sector. Besides, Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd will arrange a fund of US$ $1.0 million for the startup sector of Bangladesh, which was announced on the first day of Bangladesh Startup Connect, said BIDA chairman. Doing business will be easier for investors in Bangladesh: BIDA chief He said the interim government has emphasised youth employment and entrepreneurs’ development. As part of this, the government is working with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for the allocation funds under budgetary support to boost the startup economy. The BIDA chairman said that over 70 representatives of 25 countries arrived in Bangladesh on the occasion of the investment summit. Over 1500 startups participated in the event. Chief Adviser’s press secretary Shafiqul Alam, and Shish Haider Chowdhury, ndc, Secretary, ICT Division and Chairman, Startup Bangladesh Limited were present at the press briefing.  

Bangladesh Investment Development Authority Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun met China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) President Chen Sichang on the sidelines of the Bo'ao Forum for Asia Annual Conference in Hainan, China, on Thursday. During the meeting, they discussed a potential second Chinese economic zone in the Mongla area, said Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. Strategic location, human resources can transform Bangladesh into manufacturing hub: Dr Yunus They also discussed potential collaboration to employ Bangladeshi workers across the globe in CCECC-run projects.

Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun on Sunday said Bangladesh wants to give a "genuine view" of Bangladesh to the global investors, telling true stories of investment opportunities that Bangladesh offers. "It's very difficult to give investors a genuine view and tell the true stories until we bring them physically. We want to give the investors a real picture through the Bangladesh Investment Summit," he said while briefing reporters at the Foreign Service Academy. Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder, among others, were present. Referring to remote research made by investors, Chowdhury Ashik said what the investors know about Bangladesh remotely without their physical presence is not the right picture of the country as the ground reality is different. Responding to a question, the BIDA Executive Chairman said the investors are coming to Bangladesh keeping in mind the "short-term disruption". Dr Yunus' China visit to be very productive, successful with some announcements Organised by BIDA, the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 — is set to take place in Dhaka from April 7-10. The BIDA Executive Chairman said 550 global participants from around 50 countries will participate in the Investment Summit. Delegations from China, the UK, the US, Singapore, South Korea and India are among the global participants. Chowdhury Ashik said they want to give a picture to the global investors that it is a different environment and the long-term view is still very positive. He said there will be dedicated rooms for three political parties- BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and National Citizen Party - so that the investors can get a view on the political front. Chowdhury Ashik said there will be more rooms for having bilateral meetings. On April 7, the investors will visit the Korean Export Processing Zone and Mirsarai Economic Zone in Chattogram. "A 26-member delegation is coming from South Korea. We see this as a very positive outcome," Chowdhury Ashik said. On April 8, the foreign participants will visit the Japanese Economic Zone at Araihazar. The main event will be held at a city hotel on April 9 where Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus will join.  "It's a collective effort. Private sectors and embassies (foreign missions in Dhaka) are equally involved," said the BIDA Executive Chairman. "We will have more focus on bilateral meetings," he added. Palestinian Ambassador Yousef Ramadan meets Army chief  Chowdhury Ashik said there will be a corner for signing MoUs and agreements keeping eyes on future investment. There will be a cultural segment to present Bangladesh before the foreigners showcasing its rich cultural heritage. The BIDA Executive Chairman also said April 9 will be a demo day for using Starlink. Several high-profile business leaders will be attending, including Óscar García Maceiras, CEO of Zara Group; Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman of DP World; Rosy Winterton, Baroness and UK trade representative; Kyeongsu Lee, VP of Samsung C&T; JunSeok Han, CEO of Giordano; Steven Kobos, CEO of Excelerate Energy; Mike Orgill, Head of Public Policy for Uber Asia Pacific; and Sarim Aziz, Director of Public Policy at Meta. The summit will also feature participation from venture capital firms such as B Capital, Gobi, Conjunction, Marubeni, and GFR, focusing on startup investments and digital economy expansion. On April 10, multiple breakout sessions will cover key investment sectors such as digital economy (led by Citi NA & UNDP), textiles (HSBC & BGMEA), agriculture and agro-processing (Dutch Embassy & LCP), and healthcare (Inspira, EBL & Sajida Foundation). The day will also feature a matchmaking session and a roundtable discussion on global investment best practices. The summit will include designated meeting rooms for investor discussions, with delegation rooms in the boardroom, lounge, and conference halls such as Modhumati and Turag, as well as networking spaces on the second floor of Hotel InterContinental. Bangladesh, Mexico see excellent opportunity to enhance bilateral cooperation Key partners for the event include UNDP, FCDO, Grameenphone, the World Bank, and FICCI, highlighting the collaborative efforts to drive foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bangladesh. Speaking at the press briefing, Ashik emphasised the summit’s role in positioning Bangladesh as a global investment destination. “Foreign investors need a clearer understanding of Bangladesh’s economic landscape and growth potential. This summit will not only showcase investment opportunities but also highlight the significant reforms undertaken to create a more business-friendly environment,” he stated. The Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 is set to be a milestone event, reinforcing the country’s commitment to economic progress, investment-friendly policies, and long-term growth, he said. The Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025, hosted by the government of Bangladesh, showcases a new investment climate in Bangladesh - set for transformative investments and unmatched growth. Global investment leaders, executives and industry pioneers will engage in discussion as Bangladesh redefines the future of investment in one of the world’s most dynamic markets. Organised by BIDA, the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 introduces the Excellence in Investment Award, a hallmark initiative celebrating investors shaping Bangladesh’s economic future. This honor recognises enterprises for their transformative contributions in areas such as investment scale, environmental stewardship, regulatory adherence and employment generation. Ahead of the Bangladesh Investment Summit, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has invited Bangladesh's friends, partners and global leaders to explore the extraordinary investment opportunities that Bangladesh has to offer. Dr Yunus to join BIMSTEC Young Gen Forum as keynote speaker "There has never been a better moment to explore the extraordinary investment opportunities in Bangladesh," he said, as the government is set to host the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 next month. Dr Yunus said Bangladesh has undergone profound transformations with a forward-thinking investment climate. "We are committed to ensuring a level playing field for all our investors," said the Chief Adviser in a message to global investors. Dr Yunus said the Summit is a gateway for investors to have more data driven insights. "Come and witness the potential that Bangladesh holds for you. And join us in shaping the future of investment in one of the world's most dynamic economies." The Chief Adviser said he is looking forward to welcoming the global partners and investors in new Bangladesh.

Referring to Bangladesh's agreement with Argent LNG, BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun has said signing a non-binding HOA (Heads of Agreement) that outlines key terms but leaves room for negotiation is the first step in a process. "The path to a comprehensive, binding contract will follow laws of Bangladesh including the Public Procurement Act, 2006, the Public Procurement Rules, 2008 and the Foreign Private Investment (Promotion and Protection) Act, 1980," Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chairman Ashik said in a statement on Sunday. Chief Adviser's press wing shared the statement. Read: BIDA launches FDI Heatmap to attract targeted investment in key sectors Quoting a company statement, Reuters earlier on Friday reported that Argent LNG, which is developing a 25 million metric tonnes per annum (MTPA) LNG facility in Louisiana, has signed a non-binding agreement with the government of Bangladesh to purchase up to 5 million metric tons of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually. This is the first major U.S. LNG supply deal since President Donald Trump took office on Monday, and according to the parties, reflects industry confidence in the new administration's pro-energy policies, the report reads.

The government will phase out its involvement in business operations and focus on creating a conducive environment for business and employment, said Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA). He said this while speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled “Investment Prospects and Challenges” organised by the Economic Reporters’ Forum (ERF) in the capital on Wednesday. “Within the next six months to a year, we will gradually withdraw state entities from many businesses. The government does not need to engage in business, businesspeople will do that. Our role is creating the ground,” he said. Chowdhury Harun said as 100 economic zones are unnecessary the government will select few to make them effective and attractive for investment. “Instead of creating new economic zones, we can utilise existing locations equipped with utilities like gas connections, handing them over to key players for business,” he added. Ha-Meem Group Managing Director and former FBCCI President AK Azad highlighted the need for transformation and policy implementation to enhance the country’s image. “Change takes time, but the youth have proven it is possible. Policymakers should conduct product cost analyses before decisions are made. As it stands, businesses face challenges, with no substantial new investments taking place,” he said. Criticizing roadshows, LafargeHolcim Bangladesh Limited CEO Iqbal Chowdhury said, “Roadshows abroad have not yielded significant results.” Govt prioritises gas exploration, extraction amid growing crisis Former DCCI President Abul Kasem Khan pointed out weaknesses in the supply chain mechanism and the lack of global recognition for Bangladeshi brands. “Countries like Japan are known through brands like Sony, Toyota, and Mitsubishi. What does the world know us for? We need a brand that represents Bangladesh globally,” he said. He said policymakers assume all businesspeople will take money out of the country. “Those who wanted to leave have already done so. We stayed, and we’re not going anywhere.” Md. Hafizur Rahman, a member of the Bangladesh Competition Commission and administrator of FBCCI, highlighted uncertainties faced by new entrepreneurs. “We must provide an environment that encourages investment. New entrepreneurs often face challenges due to the lack of safeguards. If they fail once, they have little chance to recover under current rules,” he said. He called for measures to support entrepreneurs allowing them to learn from failure without fear of being permanently sidelined.

The UK-Bangladesh Catalysts of Commerce and Industry (UKBCCI), a prominent organisation representing British-Bangladeshi entrepreneurs, has expressed its intention to expand business operations and investments in Bangladesh. A 22-member UKBCCI business delegation met the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) on Saturday, urging the creation of an investment-friendly environment to attract more British investors and boost economic growth. The delegation, led by UKBCCI Chairman Iqbal Ahmed OBE, is visiting Bangladesh to enhance bilateral relations and explore business opportunities. The delegation includes key figures such as British MP Dr Rupa Huq, UKBCCI President MG Moula Miah MBE, founder President Bajloor Rashid MBE, and other prominent business leaders and professionals. CA Dr Yunus assures UK MP of free, fair polls in Bangladesh Chairman of BIDA, Ashiq Mahmud bin Haroon, presided over the event. BIDA Managing Director Gazi AKM Fazlul Haque and Secretary Dr Dewan Chowdhury were also present. British MP Dr Rupa Huq emphasized the immense investment potential in Bangladesh, particularly in sectors like energy, railways, telecommunications, IT, pharmaceuticals, light engineering, education and ready-made garments (RMG). She highlighted that the country is now one of the most profitable destinations for foreign investment and urged Bangladeshi authorities to streamline investment procedures and provide comprehensive facilities to attract foreign investors. “The special economic zones and hi-tech parks in Bangladesh offer tremendous opportunities for both local and foreign investors,” said Dr Huq. She also mentioned the UK’s strong trade and economic ties with Bangladesh and noted the active participation of British companies in sectors such as agriculture, garments, and pharmaceuticals. UKBCCI Chair Iqbal Ahmed expressed the organization’s interest in exploring opportunities in ICT, garments, infrastructure, engineering, logistics, tourism, financial services, and other sectors. He stressed the importance of collaboration to foster prosperity for both nations. CA's special envoy urges British entrepreneurs to invest in Bangladesh Founder President Bajloor Rashid shared insights on the positive feedback received during the delegation’s discussions with leaders from public and private sectors, including BIDA officials and business bodies. The delegation praised the efforts of the Bangladeshi government in creating investment-friendly economic zones and reiterated their commitment to enhancing cooperation between the two nations to drive mutual growth and development.

The government has officially approved the formation of a national taskforce on the semiconductor sector, to be led by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) - setting a benchmark for uniting non-resident Bangladeshi (NRB) industry leaders, academics, and top government representatives to drive sectoral growth. The initiative aims to advance Bangladesh’s capabilities in testing, assembly, and chip design, marking a significant step towards unlocking the country's potential in this high-value industry.  “Bangladesh’s strategic location near the Asia-Pacific supply chain, competitive labor costs, and young, skilled workforce make it an ideal destination for global semiconductor leaders. By uniting expertise from Bangladeshi diaspora, industry, academia, and policy, we will strengthen our role in the global value chain and build a future-ready, innovation-driven economy,” said Ashik Chowdhury, Executive Chairman, BIDA and BEZA on Wednesday. BIDA signs MoUs with 4 institutions, adds 7 new services The taskforce’s mandate includes identifying immediate growth opportunities, addressing policy and skill gaps, and recommending infrastructure and incentive frameworks to attract global investment, with the expectation of delivering actionable results by the end of January. Ashik Chowdhury, Executive Chairman, BIDA and BEZA, has been made convener of the taskforce. Besides the National Board of Revenue Chairman and the ICT Division Secretary, the taskforce includes Mohammed Enayetur Rahman, CEO, ULKASEMI; Istak Ahmmed, Chairman, Prime Silicon Technology (BD) Ltd; M.A. Jabbar, Managing Director, Neural Semiconductor Ltd; Prof. Dr. A. B. M. Harun-ur-Rashid, Head of Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET); Maj Gen. Md. Nasim Parvez, Commandant, Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST); Prof. Syed Mahfuzul Aziz, Pro-VC, BRAC University; Mashuk Rahman, founder, Green Quest, USA; Mustafiz Choudhury, Semiconductor Expert, Silicon Valley; and Zahirul Alam, Executive Director, Integrated Development Foundation (IDF). Nahian Rahman Rochi, Head of Business Development, BIDA is the member secretary.

The head of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority has invited China-based manufacturers to invest in Bangladesh in the wake of the post-election development. Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, the Executive Chairman of the BIDA, wrote an "open letter" to investors in China, saying that Bangladesh was now ready to emerge as a potential destination for manufacturers planning to relocate or diversify their footprints. "The post-election developments in the US signal big increases in tariffs and duties for China-based manufacturers," Chowdhury, a former senior banker with HSBC, writes. "In this context, we extend an open invitation to our investor friends in China and are committed to supporting them in navigating the evolving landscape. We see potential in industries like garments, electronics, solar value chain, and automotive. We are committed to tailoring a favourable investment environment for the investors with attractive incentive programs and benefits," he said. The BIDA chief who met at least 200 CEOs of multinational and local companies last month, said contrary to what some political experts were predicting, Bangladesh economy is set to benefit hugely in the new Trump presidency. "We are already witnessing quite a lot of interest from China based manufacturers seeking to diversify their risks and manufacturing bases," he said. China, a long-standing partner of Bangladesh and, in 2022, has become Bangladesh's largest source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Chowdhury said this trend will accelerate once the new Trump administration takes over in January 2025. Prioritising quality and global standards can be Bangladesh’s path to post-LDC success: Strategy paper He said he has been following the regional expansion of Chinese manufacturers in the last decade and was fortunate to support them in his previous capacity as an investment banker. "With the new US political landscape, the trend is likely to grow." Bangladesh is keen to "welcome" these investors with tailored solutions. "That's my commitment as the chief marketing officer of Bangladesh," he writes.