United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s private sector risks a tightening credit environment as government borrowing from the banking system has surged to nearly Tk 60,000 crore in the first half of the current fiscal year, raising concerns about reduced lending capacity for businesses. According to Bangladesh Bank data, the government’s net borrowing from banks reached Tk 59,756 crore between July 1 and January 4 of FY2025–26. The amount accounts for more than 57 percent of the full-year borrowing target of Tk 1.04 lakh crore, surpassing the halfway mark well before the fiscal year’s midpoint. The pace of borrowing marks a sharp escalation from a year earlier. In the same period of FY2024–25, the government’s net bank borrowing stood at Tk 8,312 crore, meaning the current figure represents an increase of 619 percent. Read more: Govt exceeds IMF-set limit on external borrowing: Dr Salehuddin Although the government initially repaid a small portion of its bank liabilities at the start of the fiscal year, borrowing accelerated rapidly amid mounting fiscal pressures. Economists cite a combination of revenue shortfalls, declining foreign aid and rising expenditure commitments as key drivers behind the shift. “The government is not meeting its revenue targets, and expected foreign loans are not arriving on time,” said Towfiqul Islam Khan, economist and additional research director at the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD). "Consequently, the government is forced to lean on the domestic banking sector to cover the deficit," he said. Bangladesh Bank data show the government’s total outstanding debt to the banking system has climbed to Tk 6.10 lakh crore. Of the borrowing undertaken so far this fiscal year, Tk 35,750 crore has come from commercial banks, while Tk 24,006 crore has been taken from the central bank. Read more: IMF limits Bangladesh’s foreign borrowing Business leaders warn that heavy public-sector borrowing risks crowding out private investment by absorbing a significant share of available bank liquidity. Reduced access to credit could delay investment decisions, constrain production capacity and slow job creation, they say. Syed Mahbubur Rahman, managing director and chief executive officer of Mutual Trust Bank Limited, said the banking sector has been navigating a difficult period amid a broader erosion of confidence. He noted that while the economy and banking system have stabilised, growth has slowed due to the impact of “severe mismanagement of the macroeconomic situation”. “Excessive government borrowing reduces the capacity of banks to support the private sector,” said Abdul Haque, a prominent business leader and former director of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI). “This hampers employment and has a negative ripple effect across the entire economy," he said. Read more: NPL crisis chokes private credit growth, endangers Bangladesh's economic recovery: Experts Analysts caution that unless revenue collection improves and public spending is managed more effectively, continued reliance on bank financing could undermine private-sector activity and weigh on Bangladesh’s longer-term economic growth.

The election to the Board of Directors of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), the country’s apex trade body, is set to take place on September 7. On that day, members of the General Assembly will elect the President, Senior Vice President, Vice Presidents and Directors of the FBCCI for the 2025–2026 and 2026–2027 terms through full participation of all eligible voters. The FBCCI Election Board officially announced the election schedule on Wednesday (June 18). The election will be conducted in accordance with the Trade Organisation Act 2022 and the recently formulated Trade Organisation Regulations 2025. As per the updated regulations, the size of the FBCCI Board of Directors has been reduced from 80 to 46 members. Among these, there will be one President, one Senior Vice President, and two Vice Presidents. Economy eyes gradual growth with steady recovery in key sectors: Finance Ministry According to the election schedule, all member chambers and associations must submit the list of their nominated representatives for the FBCCI General Assembly by 5:00 pm on July 2. The preliminary list of voters for the FBCCI Board election will be published today. The final voter list is scheduled for release on July 26. The preliminary list of candidates for the positions of President, Senior Vice President, Vice Presidents, and Directors will be announced on August 8. Following the process of verification, scrutiny, and analysis, the Election Board will publish the final list of candidates on August 14. Candidates wishing to withdraw their nominations must inform the Election Board by 2:00 pm on August 16. On the same day, the Board will release the definitive list of candidates contesting in the FBCCI Board of Directors election.

The Bangladesh Preparedness Partnership (BPP) partners will work collaboratively to build a stronger, safer Bangladesh through disaster management and response. Speakers said this at bi-monthly coordination meeting of the BPP held at a hotel in Dhaka on Monday. The Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) hosted the event. Representatives from the government, private sector, NGOs, and academia attended the meeting and emphasised working together for disaster preparedness and resilience. The meeting was chaired by AKM Abdul Wadud, additional secretary of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR) and chair of the BPP Mobilization Desk. Secretary General of FBCCI Md. Alamgir, co-founder of IDMVS Professor Mahbuba Nasreen, adviser to FBCCI Safety Council Brig. Gen. Abu Nayeem Md. Shahidullah were present at the meeting, among others. Ms. Shivani Gupta, senior Project Management Specialist of ADPC Hq (Bangkok) joined the meeting virtually.  FBCCI and Bhutan delegation explore enhanced agricultural trade cooperation Chairing the meeting, Wadud emphasised the need to revitalise the Disaster Management Fund (DMF) and fully mobilise the country’s 8 million volunteers, advocating for a national platform to coordinate grassroots resilience efforts. He also stressed the integration of monitoring and early action into the National Plan for Disaster Management (NPDM) implementation roadmap. FBCCI Secretary General Md. Alamgir said coordinated efforts by the government, non-governmental organisations, academia, private sector as well as international partners are essential in our country's disaster management and preparedness. We are collectively working together to increase the country's disaster resilience. FBCCI delegation to attend 5th World Fair & Fest Tampa Bay 2025 in US “The role of the private sector in disaster management is very important. Through the FBCCI Safety Council, we have taken several initiatives to reduce disaster risk and enhance emergency preparedness in the private sector following the guidelines assigned to FBCCI through the Standing Order on Disaster Management.” he added. Academic partners, including the Institute of Disaster Management and Vulnerability Studies (IDMVS) and BRAC University, shared baseline study findings and updates on the Response Capacity Index (RCI). Civil society contributions were presented by NAHAB, showcasing inclusive disaster management efforts. ADPCs Senior Program Manager Dr, Mohammad Ahsan Ullah presented a summary of activities during the reporting period and upcoming key event.

Bangladesh and Bhutan are seeking to strengthen bilateral trade ties, with a particular focus on agricultural products such as fruits, vegetables and spices. Business leaders from both nations emphasised the importance of expanding mutual cooperation to unlock the trade potential between the two South Asian countries. The discussions were held at a meeting organised by the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) at its headquarters in Motijheel on Wednesday morning. The meeting brought together a visiting Bhutanese delegation and Bangladeshi business leaders to explore new avenues for collaboration. Leading the Bhutanese delegation was Dawa Dakpa, Regional Director of the Regional Agricultural Marketing and Cooperative Office (RAMCO). Also in attendance were Md Zafar Iqbal ndc, Head of FBCCI’s International Affairs Wing, and Dawa Tshering, Minister Counsellor (Commerce) at the Bhutanese Embassy in Dhaka. Gold price slashed after three consecutive hikes since Saturday: Bajus The participants highlighted the need to simplify import-export procedures to harness the full potential of the market. They also underlined the importance of improving supply chain mechanisms, developing supporting infrastructure, and increasing port capacities to facilitate more efficient trade flows. Among the Bangladeshi attendees were FBCCI’s former directors Haji Md Enayetullah and Dr Ferdousi Begum, along with AM Amirul Islam Bhuiyan, President of the Bangladesh Agro Feed Ingredients Importers and Traders Association, Md Zakir Hossain, and Sheikh Al Mamun. Stakeholders on both sides agreed that enhanced cooperation in the agricultural sector could pave the way for a mutually beneficial partnership, with emphasis on exploring untapped areas and capitalising on each country’s unique strengths and resources.

The leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Front of the Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) have pledged that no election will be held without reforming the federation.They also promised that the anti-discrimination committee would resist any move to hold an election without reforming discriminatory rules and voter lists. FBCCI delegation to attend 5th World Fair & Fest Tampa Bay 2025 in USThey said these while speaking at an Iftar Mahfil organized by FBCCI members of the Anti-Discrimination Front held at the Officers Club in Baily Road on Saturday.For commerce adviser and BNP Vice-Chairman Barkat Ullah Bulu, Convenor of the anti-discrimination front of FBCCI Md. Zakir Hossain Nayan, Coordinators Abul Kashem Haider, Giasuddin Chowdhury, Atiqur Rahman, among others spoke at the pre-iftar discussion and Dua Mahfil.Adviser of the Religious Affairs of the interim government, AFM Khalid Hossain, attended the event. FBCCI seeks information on people making artificial crisis of chickens, eggsRepresentatives of FBCCI from different districts and divisional chambers were present at the Iftar Mahfil.

The two-day ‘5th World Fair & Fest Tampa Bay 2025’ is going to start on April 26 with the aim of exchanging global cultures, developing business relations, and expanding the travel and tourism sector. The fair is going to be held at the Tampa Heights Youth Development and Community Center in Florida, United States, under the initiative of the Association of World Fair & Fest USA INC. A formal announcement in this regard was made at a press conference at the National Press Club in the capital on Thursday. Representatives from different countries participating in this international event will open the door to new possibilities by establishing business and cultural contacts. The organizers expect that the event will play an important role in strengthening relations between the Bangladeshi diaspora and the global community. FBCCI seeks information on people making artificial crisis of chickens, eggs Florida State Representative Susan L. Valdas will be present as the chief guest at this event. Former State Representative Daisy Moral will be present as a special guest. Representatives from about 30 countries and important figures from local administration will participate in it. It was also informed in the press conference that a delegation of FBCCI from Bangladesh will participate in the fair and highlight the trade and investment potential of Bangladesh. The Bangladesh Consulate General of Miami will provide visa and visa-related services at the event. In addition to cultural performances, a spectacular dinner cruise will be organized for the participants in the event. RTV and Bayanna TV will be the media partners. In addition, Haven Tours and Resorts Limited will be the tour partner. Atiqur Rahman, Director of Association of World Fair and Fest USA INC, FBCCI General Council Member and prominent businessman Zakir Hossain Nayan, and prominent businessman Abul Hossain spoke at the press conference.

Abdul Awal Mintoo, a former president of the FBCCI and a senior BNP leader, has stressed that only an elected government can ensure accountability to the people and steer Bangladesh out of its current economic challenges. Speaking at a discussion titled "Current Business and Economic Scenarios: The Way Forward," held at the ERF Auditorium in Paltan on Monday, Mintoo highlighted the urgent need for an elected political government to restore investor confidence and promote economic recovery. Mintoo criticized previous unelected governments for derailing the country’s macroeconomic stability by undertaking unplanned and unproductive mega projects. Bureaucrats appear before people in many forms, it’s a problem: Dr Debapriya He noted that the reliance on costly short-term foreign loans to fund these projects has contributed to inflation and placed a burden on the economy that will take years to resolve. Highlighting the dire employment situation, Mintoo said that around 22-23 lakh youths are ready to enter the workforce each year, but job creation has stagnated due to dwindling investment and reduced private-sector credit flow. The government’s high-value foreign loan repayments are adding to the economic strain, forcing them to borrow from domestic banks. This is further limiting credit availability for private businesses, he explained. Mintoo argued that Bangladesh currently lacks an environment conducive to investment, deterring much-needed foreign investors. Mintoo also criticized some economists for making statements that he believes have exacerbated public anxiety during the ongoing economic crisis.  Indian FS Vikram Misri to brief media this afternoon “These economists do not contribute to asset or job creation. Their irresponsible comments have caused unnecessary panic among the public,” he said. Mintoo called on the government to create a trade- and investment-friendly environment, emphasizing that this is key to increasing job opportunities and fostering economic growth. If the private sector cannot operate in a free and fearless environment, investment will not grow, and neither will job creation, he said.

The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) Administrator, Md. Hafizur Rahman, has called on district chambers to take proactive measures to manage commodity prices and ensure a steady supply of daily necessities. Govt to procure 55,000 MT soybean oil for OMS During an online exchange meeting with district chamber leaders on Sunday, Rahman emphasized the importance of regular market monitoring to effectively control prices. He also urged the chambers to remain vigilant in overseeing local markets.  

Mohammad Zahirul Islam alias Dalton Zahir has recently been selected as the co Chairman of the Standing Committee on Civil Aviation and Tourism of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI). Zahir, also a director of Tourism Developers Association of Bangladesh (TDAB), was elected for the 2023-25 term, said a press release issued on Thursday. He is the founder and CEO of Traveller Key, Europe Key, Traveller Times, Welcome Bangladesh and World Vacation Club. Zahir worked as Head of Sales and Marketing of BRAC Services Ltd (BSL), the management of BSL said in a statement. Read more: Baklai Waterfall in Bandarban: How to Get to One of the Tallest Waterfalls in Bangladesh He also served at Rose View Hotel, Sylhet. He has 22 years of experience in hospitality, tourism, public relations, media communications, branding, sales, marketing, and operations. He also worked for Grand Sultan Tea Resort and Golf, Ocean Paradise, Lakeshore Hotel, Motorola Mobile, Apple Computer, Philips Mobile, and Fujifilm Digital Camera Distribution for Bangladesh (Jel Corp HQ in Singapore). Zahir, curious about the tourism and hospitality sector, has been working to explore tourism potentials focusing on beautiful Bangladesh for its different places, cultures, and cuisines. His thirst to devise tools and to draw a blueprint to attract tourists makes him dexterous in hospitality and tourism. A travel loving personality, Zahir visited the UK, Germany, South Korea, Singapore, Poland , Denmark , Austria , Czech Republic ,Spain, France,  Switzerland,Portugal, Netherlands, Malaysia, India , Nepal , Myanmar , China and the UAE. He also participated in various esteemed events like India ’s largest event Travel Tourism Fair, ITB Berlin (World’s largest travel tourism fair in Germany), WTM London (Best World Travel Market, UK) and photo competitions of USA , Germany and France. Read more: Royal Enfield 350: Review of 350cc Motorbikes Coming in Bangladesh He has achieved the membership of the Photographic Society of America. Tourism Developers Association of Bangladesh, Tour Operator Association of Bangladesh, World Travellers Club Ltd. European American Chamber of Commerce of Industry, Pacific Asia Travel Association, New York Chapter USA, member of SKAL Madrid Spain.

The President of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) Mahbubul Alam invited Sri Lankan businessmen and investors to invest in the Special Economic Zones (SEZ). The FBCCI President made this call during a courtesy meeting with the high commissioner of Sri Lanka in Bangladesh Dharmapala Weerakkody at FBCCI’s Gulshan office on Sunday afternoon. Daraz launches Bangladesh’s first-ever free delivery festival Mahbubul said the government has been establishing 100 special economic zones in Bangladesh with All kinds of facilities including oil, gas, and electricity for the investors. Besides, one-stop service, e-platform, and many other attractive incentives are on offer to facilitate business and investment in Bangladesh. Sri Lankan businessmen can be benefitted by setting up industry here on their own or in joint ventures, he said. Bangladesh’s journey: From ‘basket case’ to aspiring economic powerhouse  He said garments, pharmaceuticals, eco-tourism, hospitality, etc. are some of the potential sectors in Bangladesh. If Sri Lankan investors want to invest in Bangladesh, FBCCI will provide all-out support. Speaking at the meeting, the Sri Lankan High Commissioner Dharmapala Weerakkody said that Sri Lanka has many business entrepreneurs who are interested in doing business in Bangladesh. Huawei offers 3-day free tour to MWC in Barcelona Besides many potential sectors, Sri Lanka receives a large number of tourists from Bangladesh every year. He said it is time to increase bilateral trade between the two countries. FBCCI president praised the Sri Lankan Central Bank's role in overcoming the economic challenges. Commercial Counselor of the Sri Lankan High Commission Srimali Jayarathna, FBCCI Vice-President Shomi Kaiser, Rashadul Hossain Chowdhury (Ronni), Secretary General Md. Alamgir, among others, were present at the meeting.