United News of Bangladesh

After a suspension of over two months, national flag carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines has resumed its direct flights on the Sylhet-Manchester route. Biman’s BG-788 flight departed from Sylhet Osmani International Airport for Manchester at 12:50 pm on Monday with 193 passengers on board, said Biman station manager Shakil Ahmed. The resumption has brought relief among UK-bound expatriates many of whom had feared the route might be permanently discontinued. Passenger Murtuza Ali, who boarded the flight, expressed his satisfaction saying he had been waiting for this service for a long time. “This has eased a lot of our suffering,” he said. Biman had earlier announced suspension of flights on this route from May 1 to July 10 to ensure smooth operation of Hajj flights. Biman’s Dhaka-Narita flight suspension draws flak The move drew frustration and concern among UK-based expatriates who feared a permanent closure of the route. Some had even threatened to halt remittance transfers in protest. KM Abu Taher Chowdhury, UK-based journalist and media director of ‘Voice for Global Bangladeshis,’ welcomed the resumption and said their long-standing campaign had finally paid off. He also urged for the launch of direct Biman flights between Sylhet and Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city. Currently, Biman Bangladesh Airlines is the only carrier operating direct flights on the Sylhet-Manchester route. Shahnewaz Majumder, Biman’s district manager in Sylhet, said, “The flight suspension was only for the Hajj season. Flights on this route have resumed and will operate regularly twice a week.” Singapore-bound Biman flight returns to Dhaka, all passengers safe He said flights will depart from Sylhet to Manchester on Sundays and Tuesdays, while return flights from Manchester to Sylhet will operate on Mondays and Wednesdays. Biman launched direct flights on the Sylhet-Manchester route on January 6, 2020.

Petrobangla (Bangladesh Oil, Gas & Mineral Corporation) on Sunday issued a public warning regarding a fraudulent scheme circulating fake job offer letters using the corporation's name, address, and fabricated memo numbers and signatures. The state-owned corporation announced that these deceptive letters, printed on plain paper, are an attempt by an unscrupulous group to defraud individuals. Petrobangla has clarified that all its recruitment processes are conducted online. Currently, the central recruitment process for Petrobangla and its subsidiary companies is underway, with the selection of initially recommended candidates being finalized. Once this process is complete, final appointment letters will be issued and candidates will be notified via official announcements on Petrobangla's website (www.petrobangla.org.bd) and through SMS to their registered mobile numbers. The corporation strongly advises everyone to be vigilant and refrain from engaging in any financial transactions in response to these fraudulent recruitment offers. For any information related to recruitment, the public is urged to refer to the official Petrobangla website or contact their head office directly, according to a press release.

Despite Friday being a weekend, Benapole Customs House opened to ensure uninterrupted import-export operations as per directive from the National Board of Revenue (NBR). The move comes following a directive from the NBR, which instructed customs houses to remain operational over the weekends to clear backlogs caused by slow performance of the ASYCUDA World System. Benapole Customs House Additional Commissioner HM Shariful Islam said although the office is open businesses were comparatively low due to the weekend. It will also stay open on Saturday. On Thursday, NBR issued a circular stating that import and export processes had been disrupted in recent days due to system slowdowns. To mitigate the impact, customs services were instructed to continue through the weekly holidays. Benapole port resumes trade, cargo operations as NBR shutdown ends Benapole Port Deputy Director Mamun Kabir Tarafdar said the port remained open on Friday, and imported goods were being unloaded from Indian trucks. “Any importer willing to release their goods will be facilitated accordingly,” he added.

National Board of Revenue (NBR) Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan on Thursday directed customs officials at Pangaon Customs House to expedite the clearance of imported goods through modern risk management systems and ensure strict compliance with laws and regulations. "Customs Houses are the centre of trade facilitation," the NBR chief said during his visit to the Pangaon Customs House in Dhaka. He urged officials to focus on core revenue collection activities, including rapid goods clearance under risk-based management, enforcement, automation, compliance with import policy orders, reduction of legal cases, and enhanced arrears collection. The chairman observed physical inspection procedures at the container yard and reviewed automated assessment operations in the assessment room. He interacted with officials and staff to assess the performance of ongoing customs activities. During a meeting with customs officials, port authorities, importers, and clearing and forwarding (C&F) agents, the NBR chairman emphasised prompt disposal of perishable goods and pending auction items through an expedited auction process. NBR asks Customs Houses to work on Friday and Saturday Customs House Commissioner Mia Md Abu Obaida reported that since June 23, 100% of revenue has been deposited into the government treasury through the automated a-challan system, a move lauded by the NBR chief. Khan praised the customs officials for their dedication but reminded them to maintain consistent focus on national interests. He issued directives to accelerate case disposal and strengthen Post Clearance Audit (PCA) processes in line with international practices. He reiterated that the Revenue Department is one of the most vital organs of the state, and inefficiencies in this sector could result in substantial losses for the country. "In today’s globalised world, enhancing operational efficiency is essential to compete with developed nations," he added. Govt has no hand in ACC probe of six NBR officials: Finance Adviser The NBR chairman concluded his visit by expressing satisfaction over the activities at Pangaon Customs House and instructed all staff to uphold professionalism, compliance, and a service-oriented approach.

Unifa Accessories (BD) Co. Ltd., a China–British Virgin Islands owned company, is set to invest US$ 48.66 million to establish a bag and fashion accessories manufacturing industry in the BEPZA Economic Zone (BEPZA EZ) in Mirsharai, Chattogram. An agreement to this effect was signed on Thursday at the BEPZA Complex, Dhaka, between Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) and Unifa Accessories (BD) Co. Ltd. In the presence of BEPZA Executive Chairman Major General Abul Kalam Mohammad Ziaur Rahman the agreement was signed by Md. Ashraful Kabir, member (Investment Promotion), on behalf of BEPZA, and Qian Danchu, chairman of Unifa Accessories (BD), on behalf of the company. BEPZA attracts $480 million investments so far in FY2024-25 The foreign-owned company will annually produce 28 million pieces of various fashion products, including bags, belts, caps, hats, scarves, mufflers, eyewear, and eyeglass frames. This project is expected to generate employment for 2,830 Bangladeshi nationals. The BEPZA executive chairman welcomed Unifa’s investment in Bangladesh, particularly in the BEPZA EZ. He assured the company of BEPZA’s full cooperation to ensure smooth business operations. He expressed confidence that this Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) would make a significant contribution to the country’s socio-economic development, according to a press release.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) on Thursday asked all Customs houses and relevant departments to remain open on next Friday and Saturday. In an office order it said that country’s import and export activities have faced disruptions over the past few days due to the slowness of the ASYCUDA World System, a key digital platform used for customs processing. In view of the situation, relevant authorities have called for urgent steps to ensure uninterrupted trade operations, especially as the weekend approaches. To mitigate the impact and maintain the momentum of import-export activities, instructions have been issued to keep operations running during the weekly holidays on July 11-12 (Thursday and Friday). Officials said that the temporary slowdown of the automated customs clearance system has caused delays in the processing of goods at key customs points. Govt has no hand in ACC probe of six NBR officials: Finance Adviser The NBR, in coordination with other agencies, has moved to address the technical glitches and streamline clearance procedures as quickly as possible. Concerned departments have been asked to make necessary manpower and logistical arrangements to keep customs and related services active during the weekend to minimize trade disruption.

Hitachi, the global leader in home appliances, in collaboration with Transcom Digital, introduces its Top Load Smart Washing Machines and Dishwashers in Bangladesh for the very first time.  This launch marks a significant milestone for Bangladeshi consumers, who can now enjoy international-standard performance, durability, and design from a globally trusted brand. Hitachi’s Top Load Smart Washing Machines are equipped with Smart Wash, Air Jet Dry system, Auto Balancer, Soaking Function, 19-minute Half Load, 28-minute Speed Wash Programs, soft-close lids, and tempered glass covers — all designed to deliver powerful cleaning with ease and efficiency. The Dishwashers boast 11 advanced technologies, including Steam Shine Function, Auto Open Door, Surround Wash Technology, Hygiene Care with 99.99% bacteria & virus elimination, and an eco-friendly recycled PET chassis — setting a new benchmark for smart kitchens in Bangladesh. To celebrate this milestone, Transcom Digital is offering "Double Scratch & Win" campaign on the new Top Load Washing Machines. Customers will get two chances to scratch and win from over 1,000+ rewards, including instant cash vouchers, free gifts, and a chance to win mega travel rewards to Thailand and Nepal. Every buyer will also receive one month of free detergent as an assured gift. For Dishwashers, customers will enjoy a free one-month supply of dishwashing tablets. These launch offers are valid until 31st July 2025 across all Transcom Digital showrooms nationwide. Ritesh Ranjan, Head of Business, Transcom Digital Stated, “We are thrilled to bring Hitachi’s globally acclaimed technology to our customers in an exciting new way. The introduction of Top Load Washing Machines and Dishwashers reflects our commitment to making premium innovation accessible to Bangladeshi households.” Mr. Tarun Jain, director – Sales, Arcelik Hitachi Home Appliances Sales (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.: Stated, “Bangladesh has always been a promising market for Hitachi. Through this launch, we aim to elevate the lifestyle of modern consumers by offering reliable, smart, and energy-efficient solutions at attractive prices.”

From July 8, users of Pathao Pay can enjoy cashback of up to Tk 3,000 throughout the month when they pay for regular services like bike rides, car hires, food orders, and parcel deliveries using the platform. The integrated payment system is designed to enhance convenience and add value to everyday transactions within the Pathao ecosystem. Depending on the payment method, cashback is either credited instantly or on a daily basis. The benefits are automatically applied to eligible purchases made through Pathao Pay. Pathao hopeful its proposed digital bank can offer one-stop banking solution for digital natives To further promote its digital finance services, Pathao is also giving away a free physical card, powered by Mastercard, to all new Pathao Pay users. This move marks the company’s broader shift from being solely a mobility and delivery service to becoming a player in digital financial services. By offering added financial incentives, Pathao aims to attract young users who prefer platforms that provide both convenience and tangible rewards. 

Despite holding its position as the world’s second-largest apparel exporter, Bangladesh faces growing competition from Vietnam, which is emerging as a formidable rival in the global market. According to the World Trade Organization (WTO) data for 2024, Bangladesh secured $38.48 billion with a growth rate of 0.21%, while Vietnam emerged as a strong contender with a notable growth rate of 9.34%, amounting to $33.94 billion in exports. The global apparel market has reached a total size of $557.50 billion, showing a 7.08% growth from the previous year's $520.62 billion, according to the WTO data for 2024. China, leading the market, achieved $165.24 billion in exports, marking a modest growth of 0.30%. Following closely, Bangladesh secured $38.48 billion with a growth rate of 0.21%. Vietnam emerged as a strong contender with a notable growth rate of 9.34%, amounting to $33.94 billion in exports. Turkey contributed $17.91 billion to the market, while India, Cambodia, Pakistan, Indonesia, and the USA recorded export figures of $16.36 billion, $9.89 billion, $9.28 billion, $8.73 billion, and $7.00 billion, respectively. Growth percentages varied across these countries, with figures ranging from 24.19% to -4.42%. Bangladesh's apparel export to US rose to $7.34 billion in a decade: US Report Market share analysis reveals China holding the largest share at 29.64%, followed by Bangladesh at 6.90%. Vietnam, Turkey, India, Cambodia, Pakistan, Indonesia, and the USA captured market shares of 6.09%, 3.21%, 2.94%, 1.77%, 1.66%, 1.57%, and 1.26%, respectively. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the global apparel market has shown signs of recovery and growth. But, new challenges and issues continue to emerge, shaping the dynamics of the industry. Mohiuddin Rubel, former director, Brand BGMEA and Managing Director, Bangladesh Apparel Exchange told UNB that Bangladesh’s competitors increased in the global market. Apparel makers highlight importance diplomacy, branding eyeing 100 bln dollar industry The US tariff imposed for Bangladesh would be increased if the tariff barrier continues, he said.

Taufiq Uddin Ahmed, Founder and Chairman of Galaxy Bangladesh, has been honoured with the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ at the ‘Share Trip-Monitor Airline of the Year 2024’ for his outstanding contributions to the development of Bangladesh’s travel and tourism industry over more than five decades. The award was presented at a ceremony held at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka, where the Jury Committee commended his “visionary leadership and pioneering role in transforming the travel sector in Bangladesh”. Taufiq Uddin Ahmed began his remarkable journey in 1972, establishing Galaxy Travel International at a time when Bangladesh’s travel industry was in its infancy. Operating from a modest office in Dhaka’s Dilkusha Commercial Area, he laid the foundation for what would become one of the country’s most respected multi-sector service companies. In the 1970s and 1980s,  Taufiq led Galaxy Travel to become Bangladesh’s leading corporate travel provider for government entities, corporate houses, local and foreign banks, MNCs, and NGOs. This established Galaxy’s position at the forefront of the country’s travel and aviation community. Driven by a lifelong fascination with travel and a desire to connect Bangladesh with the world, Mr. Taufiq guided Galaxy to bring numerous international airlines into the Bangladeshi market. During his tenure, Galaxy became the General Sales Agent (GSA) for several carriers including United Airlines, Ansett Australia, Kingfisher Airlines, Qatar Airways, Thai Airways, SpiceJet, Saudia, Oman Air, Jazeera Airways, and others. Beyond building a strong corporate portfolio,  Taufiq played a pivotal role in advancing the country’s broader travel landscape.  As a founding member of the Association of Travel Agents of Bangladesh (ATAB) and a three-term elected President of the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB), he championed higher industry standards, improved policy frameworks, and collective growth. Under his leadership, Galaxy also began offering visa services in partnership with leading visa service providers like VFS Global, simplifying international travel for countless Bangladeshis. Reflecting on this honour, Taufiq Uddin Ahmed said that this recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the dedication of our entire Galaxy family.  He also expressed his gratitude for the ongoing support from airline partners, various ministries and government bodies, the Civil Aviation Authority, Biman and other private airlines, the Bangladesh Tourism Board, and the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, in putting Bangladesh on the global travel map.  "We remain committed to delivering excellence, nurturing talent, and building a vibrant future for Bangladesh’s aviation, travel, and tourism industry," he added. On presenting the award to Taufiq, the Jury Committee noted, “This honour is in special recognition of his outstanding contributions to the development and progress of Bangladesh’s travel industry.” Organisers of the event described Taufiq’s legacy as a source of inspiration for Bangladesh’s aviation and tourism sectors, highlighting his commitment to connecting people, cultures, and destinations, and thereby strengthening the country’s global connectivity.