A seminar on “Legal and Regulatory Compliance for Companies” was held at the secretariat of Bangladesh-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI) on Sunday. The BMCCI organised its 9th LegalTalk seminar where Barrister Syed Afzal Hassan Uddin, Managing Partner, and Barrister Nazia Kabir, Partner, Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed & Associates elaborated on the topics, said a press release. 7th Digital Marketing Award honours 139 outstanding digital campaigns BMCCI’s Senior Vice President Shabbir Ahmed Khan said the seminar was organised to provide valuable insights and information on all kinds of company compliances that may affect your business, as well as strategies to optimise your business planning. Barrister Syed Afzal Hassan Uddin, Managing Partner, Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed & Associates, clearly mentioned how the business environment came over so well despite the bitter past in policy and overall business situation. At the same time, other companies that have invested in Bangladesh are dissuaded by their past bitter experiences. BERC chief visits Omera’s LPG terminal, ship in Mongla He also discussed various guidelines on legal and regulatory compliance for companies—a crucial aspect of business operations. The participants got to know about compliance with corporate laws, employment laws, tax regulations, data protection laws, and more. Non-compliance can result in legal penalties, reputational damage, and financial losses. The participants marked this enterprise as an eye-opening and far-reaching initiative. Evolving global order brings risks and opportunities for Bangladesh, economist Wahiduddin tells BIDS Conference Senior Vice President Shabbir Ahmed Khan and the guest speaker distributed the certificates among the participants for their active participation in the seminar.

The Digital Marketing Award, now in its 7th year, honoured 139 outstanding digital campaigns across 24 diverse categories. The grand award gala was hosted at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka on Saturday. Organized by Bangladesh Brand Forum, the event, presented by Meghna Group of Industries in association with The Daily Star, brought together more than 600 digital marketing and business professionals. Evolving global order brings risks and opportunities for Bangladesh, economist Wahiduddin tells BIDS Conference This year's edition received an impressive 1037 nominations across 24 categories, highlighting the growing significance of digital marketing in Bangladesh. Following a meticulous two-level jury process, where 10 jury panels consisting of 136 jurors shortlisted 453 campaigns and 115 category experts evaluated them in grand jury sessions, a total of 139 campaigns emerged victorious in Bronze, Silver, and Gold categories. In her welcome speech, Nazia Andaleeb Preema, Director & Creative Editor of Bangladesh Brand Forum, remarked on the evolving landscape of digital marketing, incorporating data, AI, and innovation. The awards ceremony, she noted, not only serves as recognition for outstanding efforts but also as a motivating call to push boundaries and excel in the dynamic digital marketing arena. No legitimate grounds to warrant economic sanctions against Bangladesh: BGMEA This year's awards included 71 Bronze, 49 Silver, and 19 Gold awards, with no Grand Prix recipients. Despite the absence of the top honor, the event celebrated the diverse and innovative campaigns that have shaped the digital marketing landscape in Bangladesh. Themed "Innovation and Disruption: Guiding Through the Digital Terrain," the summit explored the intricate dynamics of the digital marketing landscape, emphasizing the role of innovation in navigating disruptions. The summit featured four exclusive keynote sessions by globally renowned speakers, including Shihab Ahmad of Robi Axiata Ltd., Prasun Basu of Inteliphyle Ltd., Tara Yoon of Google APAC, and Bharat Avalani of Connecting the Dots, Malaysia. Panel discussions delved into crucial topics such as "Creating Engaging and Impactful Marketing Narratives in the Digital Era," "AI's Transformative Role in Media and Marketing," and "Unlocking Creative Potential - Guiding Through the Digital Terrain." Commerce Secretary slams onion price hike as irresponsible act of businesses The event's partners included Bangladesh Creative Forum, Inteliphyle, Marketing Society of Bangladesh (MSB), aamra Networks Limited, and Backpage PR. The summit and awards ceremony collectively served as a testament to the digital marketing industry's resilience, innovation, and commitment to navigating the challenges of a digitally transformed future.

Chairman of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) Md Nurul Amin visited the Omera Petroleum Limited LPG Terminal and Omera LPG Ship located in Mongla, Bagerhat on Saturday. According to Omera, senior officials of BERC were present on the occasion. It said the visit was a testament to BERC's commitment to overseeing and ensuring the highest standards within the energy sector. Read: 7th Digital Marketing Award honours 139 outstanding digital campaigns During the visit, the chIrman and officials were provided with an insightful tour of the state-of-the-art facilities at Omera Petroleum Limited, a market leader in the country’s LPG sector. They were introduced to cutting-edge technology, stringent safety protocols, and the company's unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. The chairman expressed profound appreciation for the exceptional standards of safety, operational efficiency, and adherence to regulatory guidelines followed at the Omera LPG Terminal. Read: Commerce Secretary slams onion price hike as irresponsible act of businesses The visit to the Omera LPG Ship further emphasised the company's dedication to maintaining international standards in the handling and transportation of liquefied petroleum gas. Omera Petroleum Limited remains committed to upholding the highest standards in the industry and extends its sincere gratitude to the Chairman of BERC and the senior officials for their visit, their valuable insights, and their commendation of the company's efforts.  

The jump in the prices of onion by Tk 70-80 per kg overnight can’t be the work of any responsible businesspeople, said Tapan Kanti Ghosh, senior secretary of the Ministry of Commerce on Sunday. He was speaking as a special guest at a programme organized to celebrate ‘National VAT Day’ at Agargaon's NBR Building. The invitation card had the name of Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal as the chief guest of the programme. But he was conspicuously absent. The chair of the chief remained empty during the entire event with organisers announcing the finance minister could not attend due to unavoidable reason.. Commerce secretary Ghosh described the onion price hike as irresponsible behaviour of a section of businesspeople. Businessmen should understand that business is for the people of the country. We don’t want them to do business without profit. But how can a product that costs Tk 120 a kg a day before sells at Tk200 overnight,” he wondered.

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Faruque Hassan on Friday said they "do not believe that there is any legitimate ground" for imposing economic sanctions against Bangladesh. "As far as garment manufacturing is concerned, Bangladesh has made its position to be a responsible manufacturing hub ensuring workplace safety, workers wellbeing, and championing green industrialisation," he said. The BGMEA chief urged all print, electronic and online media to highlight this clarification through their platforms in the interest of our industry and economy. In the past two days an additional LC clause regarding sanction has caught significant media attention, Hassan observed. BGMEA investigated the matter and issued clarification statements. "We still notice that the issue is being discussed and given attention in the media causing confusion and panic," he said. BGMEA received official comments from the original buyer and their agent in Bangladesh. Read: Awami League not worried about any sanctions: Quader The latest statement from BGMEA aims to further clear this issue, Hassan said, hoping the unnecessary attention, confusion and panic be avoided. The original buyer, which is a French entity, did not insert this additional clause in its master LC to the Bangladesh agent, he said. Secondly - the agent transferred its LC to a Bangladeshi garment factory, which was issued by the Standard Chartered Bank Dubai, and the Standard Chartered Bank inserted this additional clause in the LC on their own. "So no buyer inserted the LC, a private commercial bank did it without being directed by its client," said the BGMEA chief. Thirdly, he said, the agent confirmed that the SCB Dubai has already removed the alleged clause from the LC and transferred it to the Bangladeshi factory. So the additional clause doesn’t exist anymore. Read: Russia against illegal actions like sanctions from US, other western countries: Ambassador The agent also assured the BGMEA that they will make sure not to insert such clauses in any LC transferred to Bangladeshi suppliers. "This should end the debate and discussion on the misinterpretation of this additional LC clause," said the BGMEA President. He appreciated the concerned buyer and the agent for taking prompt action to revise the LC in less than 24 hours. "We want to make it clear to all the global buyers not to insert such clauses in their LC, and also to advise their banks not to make such unacceptable insertions," Hassan said. Aso read: Momen hardly bothered by talk of new sanctions He said they continue to urge the Bangladeshi factories to communicate with their buyers so that such additional clauses are not repeated in any LC. "We also request our member factories not to accept LCs with such clauses."

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Faruque Hasan on Thursday said the rumour that a sanction might have been imposed against Bangladesh caused by the LC clause, is "baseless and incorrect". LCs are private commercial instrument, not statutory order or notice. "So this should not be misinterpreted as a measure of trade enforcement or economic sanction. Moreover, the BGMEA did not receive any information from our diplomatic mission or from any official sources to support any sanction or trade measure," said the BGMEA chief in a message to its members, colleagues, friends, and well-wishers. Marcel fridge customer gets Tk 1 lakh worth cash voucher in Noakhali He urged all the brands, retailers and their agents not to complicate trade with external issues, particularly not to insert any unnecessary clause creating such confusion. "We also urge our members not to accept any LCs having such a clause, and to communicate with the respective buyer(s), solicit clarification and amendment if such clause is found in the LC," said Faruque Hassan. Given all the progresses and initiatives the industry has taken to protect the legitimate rights and wellbeing of the workers, and the sustainability vision 2030, he said they are pursuing through actions, and there is no ground to impose any sanction against Bangladesh as far as the RMG industry is concerned. CEMS-Global USA’s series of exhibitions kicks off Thursday "However, we are also working with our government so that any issues or concerns are addressed through diplomatic efforts that support continued progress within the industry and economic security to the workers," he said. The much discussed LC was transferred by the ZXY International against a master LC issued by a French buyer named ‘KARIBAN’. ZXY transferred the LC in favour of ‘Knit Concern’, a member of the BGMEA. The BGMEA collected copy of the LC. It was issued by Standard Chartered Bank l, Dubai. The LC contains the following text -  “We will not process transactions involving any country, region or party sanctioned by the UN, US, EU, UK. We are not liable for any delay, non-performance or/ disclosure of information for Sanctions Reasons”. The BGMEA sought clarification from ZXY on such clause. “We received a formal clarification from ZXY, as well as got a clarification statement by the original buyer KARIBAN, which makes it clear.” Strengthened Bangladesh-US collaboration holds promising trade opportunities: BGMEA President The clarification envisages: a)     KARIBAN did not insert this clause in its master LC in favor of ZXY International. b)    The clause was inserted by SCB Dubai, which they have been doing in every LC since 30th November 2022. c)     The clause does NOT state that there is any sanction against Bangladesh. d)    ZXY International confirmed that they will remove the clause in the LC, and if required they will issue a fresh LC without that clause. 

Alauddin, an automechanic from Chowmuhani town under Begumganj upazila of Noakhali district, has received Tk1 lakh worth cash voucher after he had purchased a Marcel brand refirgerator. He was awarded the cash voucher as per the customer benefits declared in the ongoing nationwide Marcel Digitial Campaign Season-19, according to a press release. Prior to him, Rafikul Islam from Trishal of Mymensingh also got Tk1 lakh worth cash voucher under the campaign’s season-19. CEMS-Global USA’s series of exhibitions kicks off Thursday Marcel’s Brand Ambassador Popular Film Actor Amin Khan on Wednesday officially handed over Tk1 cash vourcher to Alauddin at a function held at the Marcel distributor showroom ‘Borna Electronics’ in the town. Among others, by Marcel Distributor Network (South) In-charge Nurul Islam Rubel and Borna Electronics’ Proprietor Millat Hossain, were also attended the programme. In the Season-19, customers are offered free cash voucher up to Tk1 lash or sure cashback on the purchase of any model of Marcel fridge from any showroom across the country. Customers will get the benefit until December 31 this year. Strengthened Bangladesh-US collaboration holds promising trade opportunities: BGMEA President The cash voucher awardee ‘Alauddin’ bought a Marcel brand refrigerator worth of Tk48,490 at installment with the downpayment of Tk12,000 on November 21. Then his name, mobile number and the model number of his purchased refrigeraor were registaerd digitally. After completing the digital registration, he received an SMS from Marcel with the notification that he was awarded Tk1 lakh worth cash voucher. With that cash voucher, he purchased various marcel products, including fridge, LED TV, gas stove, fry pen, blender and some other essential electronics items. Expressing gratitude to the authorities of Marcel, he said, this is the first time he got some benefits from a company. Zaved Akhtar new president of FICCI Urging to buy domestic products, film actor Amin Khan said, customers who love Bangladesh buy homemade products and contibute to strenthening nation economy. Marcel provides different benefits to customers throughout the year. This program is a proof that Marcel fulfills its promises given to customers.

A three-day international series of exhibitions organised by CEMS-Global USA focusing on construction materials, construction systems and equipment, kicked off on Thursday. The exhibitions will run till 9th December, 2023 at International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB), Dhaka, said a press release. Industry stakeholders, decision-makers, and enthusiasts are invited to join this milestone expo which will remain open to the business visitors from 10:30am - 8:00pm. As Bangladesh marches forward in its pursuit of sustainable energy solutions, CEMS-Global USA’s Power Series of Exhibitions in Bangladesh are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation's energy landscape. Bangladesh is on the path to a sustainable and energy-efficient future, and three significant events, the 25th Power Bangladesh 2023 International Expo, 20th Solar Bangladesh 2023 Expo, and 5th Lighting Bangladesh 2023 Expo, have become a cornerstone in showcasing the latest advancements in the power & energy sector and stand as shining examples of the nation's commitment to innovation and sustainability. These expos collectively showcase cutting-edge technology, renewable energy solutions, and advanced lighting concepts. The 28th Build Bangladesh 2023 International Expo, concurrently with the 22nd Real Estate Expo 2023 will have a significant impact on the construction and real estate industry in Bangladesh. Thanks to the country's rapid economic growth and development, the series of expos will play an important role in infrastructure development for the country's urbanization, as it brings together stakeholders from various industries, including construction, real estate and more. CEMS-Global USA's Power Series of Exhibitions in Bangladesh has the potential to play a vital role in changing the nation's energy landscape as Bangladesh expands its search for alternative energy solutions. The 25th Power Bangladesh International Expo 2023, featuring Power Generation & Transmission, PV Power, Energy and Renewable Energy; in conjunction with the 20th Solar Bangladesh International Expo 2023, featuring Photovoltaic Solar Generation & Transmission, Solar Equipment, Energy and Renewable Energy and the 5th Dhaka International Lighting Expo 2023, featuring lighting control, intelligent system, LED technology and lighting, lighting engineering, lighting design and intelligent lighting, altogether highlight the dedication which Bangladesh has brought in the burgeoning booming power sector. Moreover, the 5th Water Bangladesh International Expo 2023 will be showcasing the water, wastewater technologies and solution-based products and service industry. It will reveal to the country, the rapid developments in the industry as well as new technology components. "With the latest technologies, solutions, services, trends on display and important insightful Seminars & discussions being held on the sidelines of the events; these exhibitions are more than just platforms to showcase products and services. The expos provide forums for Face to Face meetings, discussions, networking, business development, fostering cross-border collaborations, investments and exchange of ideas," remarked Ms. Meherun N. Islam, President and Group Managing Director of CEMS-Global USA & Asia-Pacific. Established in 1992, CEMS-Global, in this span of 31 years, has been committed to organizing Professional B2B Trade Shows for important Business sectors of the trade and economy. These separate exhibitions promise a platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and business opportunities.    

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Faruque Hassan on Thursday said if the U.S. government permits duty-free access for garments made from U.S.-imported cotton, it could further enhance trade relations. "It would encourage Bangladeshi garment exporters to use more cotton imported from the US for export," he said. This move, he explained, would not only benefit Bangladeshi RMG exporters but also contribute to a win-win situation for U.S. cotton growers, suppliers and apparel consumers as well. Considering Bangladesh’s position as the world’s second-largest cotton-importing country, such collaborations hold strategic importance, he opined. Faruque Hassan expressed optimism about the prospect of closer cooperation that would contribute to mutual economic growth and prosperity. He emphasized the potential for increased trade benefits through enhanced collaboration between Bangladesh and the United States.  

Zaved Akhtar, Chairman and Managing Director of Unilever Bangladesh Limited, has been elected the President of Foreign Investors' Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) for the tenure of 2024-25. Eric. M. Walker, Managing Director of Chevron Bangladesh, and Yasir Azman, Chief Executive Officer of Grameenphone Limited were elected as the Senior Vice President and Vice President, respectively.  Justice and freedom cannot be ignored for development, says Prof Osmani at BIDS Conference They were elected at FICCI’s 60th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Westin Dhaka on Wednesday, the Chamber said in a press release on Thursday. Zaved Akhtar will succeed Naser Ezaz Bijoy, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank, who served FICCI as the President for the period of 2022-2023. The newly elected 15 members of the Board of Directors will take charge on January 01, 2024, after the expiration of the tenure of the incumbent board on 31st December 2023, reads the release. Padma Bank Launches “Bijoy-71” FDR to celebrate Month of Victory Zaved Akhtar said “It is with great honour and a sense of profound responsibility that I accept the role of the President of FICCI, a chamber that has been fundamental in sculpting the economic fabric of our nation. Since its inception, FICCI has been a driving force in transforming Bangladesh into a beacon of investment—bringing in 90% of the Foreign Direct Investment  (FDI) and fostering a business-friendly ecosystem that has been instrumental in the growth journey of the country.” “I would like to thank my predecessor Nasir Ezaz Bijoy for his steadfast leadership in driving FICCI’s success for the past two years, and I am looking forward to working closely with the dedicated FICCI Board of Directors and the distinguished representatives from our member companies to take FICCI to newer heights. Together, we will not only uphold the chamber's illustrious legacy but also amplify its impact, and work towards the nation's vision of evolving into a smart and advanced economy by 2041,” he added. KSA keen to enhance trade with Bangladesh in food, energy, logistics, and manufacturing sectors : FBCCI Chamber’s current President Naser Ezaz Bijoy expressed his gratitude to FICCI Board of Directors for their enormous support throughout his journey with FICCI as the President. Members of FICCI outgoing and newly elected Board of Directors, representatives of FICCI member companies were present at the AGM.