United News of Bangladesh

Grasping the real worth of gold starts with understanding what 'gold carat (karat)' means – a measure that reveals how much pure gold lies beneath its polished surface. This proportion of gold blended with other metals ultimately shapes the metal’s quality, character, and purpose. It distinguishes the brilliance of fine jewellery from the strength of everyday pieces. Let’s explore this spectrum by comparing the different types of gold carats (karats) to see how purity levels influence both beauty and practicality. What is Carat (Karat)? Essence of Gold’s Measurement Gold’s fineness – more commonly referred to through its carat value – serves as a precise indicator of purity. Since genuine gold is naturally soft and malleable, it cannot endure frequent wear or pressure without losing its shape. To strengthen it for practical use in jewellery, utensils, and coinage, gold is typically blended with small portions of other metals like silver, copper, or nickel. These combinations add durability, colour tone, and overall value, creating a delicate balance between beauty and resilience. Each carat represents one twenty-fourth of the total composition – meaning every unit reflects 4.1667% purity. For instance, a 14-carat piece contains fourteen parts gold mixed with ten parts alloy, while a 24-carat piece stands as the benchmark of purity, free from any metallic additions. Read more: Gold Investment in Bangladesh in 2025: Safe Haven or Risky Bet? Comparative Analysis of Different Types of Gold Carats (Karats) Gold’s purity scale varies widely, giving each carat grade its own visual tone, strength, and value. The following comparison explores how different carat levels influence the metal’s appearance and its suitability for daily wear and investment. Type Durability Color Tone Gold Fraction Hallmark Purity (%) Common Uses 24K Very soft, scratches and bends easily Bright, rich yellow/orange hue 24/24 999 99.9 or Higher Investment (coins, bars), electronics, medical devices, ceremonial items 22K More durable than 24K, but still soft Rich, vibrant yellow, slightly less intense than 24K 22/24 916 91.6 Traditional jewelry, special occasion pieces, bangles, necklaces 21K Moderate/Soft; more durable than 22k Very rich, deep yellow tone 21/24 875 87.5 Traditional jewelry (like bangles and necklaces) 20K Moderate Durability; softer than 18k Rich, deep yellow tone, close to pure gold's appearance 20/24 833 83.3 High-quality, vintage, and special jewelry 18K Good balance of purity and durability; prone to scratches Rich, warm yellow; available in white and rose gold 18/24 750 75.0 Fine jewelry, engagement rings, wedding bands, and high-end watches, suitable for daily wear with care 15K Durable Warm, rich yellow tone, but still slightly less intense than 18k 15/24 625 62.5 Historically used in vintage jewelry; less common in modern production 14K Highly durable, resistant to wear and tear Warmer yellow, but slightly paler than 18K; available in white and rose gold 14/24 583 58.3 Most popular for everyday jewelry (engagement rings, earrings, bracelets), active lifestyle wear 12K Durable Medium yellow color 12/24 500 50.0 Often used in industrial applications, older jewelry, and items like watch cases 10K Most durable and resistant to damage Light/pale yellow, less vibrant 10/24 417 41.7 Budget-friendly, sturdy pieces for heavy use, like simple chains and rings 9K Highly Durable/Hard; resistant to scratches Lighter yellow tone; can tarnish slightly more than higher carats 9/24 375 37.5 Widely used for everyday jewelry; popular for wedding bands and items needing resilience 8K Very Durable/Hard, but can be brittle; prone to tarnishing Pale yellow, less rich than higher carats 8/24 333 33.3 Budget-conscious jewelry and items 6K Very Durable/Hard, can be more brittle Very pale yellow; often needs surface treatment or plating to achieve a richer color 6/24 250 25.0 Primarily found in extremely budget-friendly or mass-market items; Uses are very limited Read more: Gold Buyer's Guide: Know the types, colors, karats of the precious metal

Barely 24 hours after raising prices by over Tk 8,000 per bhori, the Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS) has announced a reduction in gold prices once again. In a new decision, BAJUS has lowered the price of 22-carat gold by Tk 2,613 per bhori, setting the new rate at Tk 200,296 per bhori, effective from Friday. The association, in a statement, said that the price of pure gold (tejabi) has fallen in the local market, prompting the latest price adjustment. According to the new rate, the price of 21-carat gold will be Tk 190,998 per bhori, 18-carat gold Tk 163,716, and traditional method gold Tk 136,014 per bhori. BAJUS also noted that the government-fixed 5 percent VAT and a minimum making charge of 6 percent must be added to the selling price of gold ornaments. However, the making charge may vary depending on design and quality. Earlier, on October 29, BAJUS adjusted the gold price, increasing the rate of 22-carat gold by Tk 8,900 per bhori to Tk 202,709. On October 22, the price had reached a record high of Tk 217,000 per bhori, the highest in Bangladesh’s history. After four consecutive reductions, the price dropped to Tk 194,000 before rising again above Tk 200,000 per bhori. With this, the association has adjusted gold prices 72 times so far this year, increasing rates 49 times and reducing them 23 times. In 2024, the price was revised 62 times, with 35 hikes and 27 cuts. Meanwhile, silver prices remain unchanged. The price of 22-carat silver is Tk 4,246 per bhori, 21-carat Tk 4,047, 18-carat Tk 3,476, and traditional method silver Tk 2,601 per bhori. So far this year, silver prices have been revised nine times — increased six times and decreased three times. Last year, the rate was adjusted three times.

The remittance inflow to Bangladesh has surpassed $10 billion in the first four months (July–October) of the 2025-26 fiscal year. According to information provided on Thursday by Bangladesh Bank’s Assistant Spokesperson Shahriar Siddiqui, the remittance inflow exceeded $10 billion within the first 29 days of October, marking a 14.5 percent increase compared to the same period in FY 2024-25. In the same period last fiscal year, total remittance inflow stood at $8.75 billion. During the first 29 days of October alone, $2.43 billion was remitted through the country’s banking channels, up 10.2 percent from $2.20 billion in October 2024. On October 29 alone, remittance inflow was $93 million. In September 2025, remittance inflow amounted to $2.68 billion, recording a 12 percent increase over September 2024. In August, remittance reached $2.42 billion, up 9 percent year-on-year. In the first month of the fiscal year, July, remittance inflow was $2.47 billion. Banking sector officials said robust growth in expatriate earnings has positively impacted the country’s foreign currency reserves, easing pressure on the dollar in the exchange market. Strict government measures against illegal money transfers and incentives to encourage sending earnings through legal channels have played a key role in boosting remittance inflow. According to the latest Bangladesh Bank data, the country’s gross foreign exchange reserves currently stand at $32.14 billion, while reserves under the IMF’s BPM6 standard have increased to $27.34 billion. In FY 2024-25, remittance from overseas Bangladeshis hit a record $30.33 billion, up nearly $6.5 billion or 27 percent compared to FY 2023-24.

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Mahmud Hasan Khan on Tuesday urged the government to review the recently approved Bangladesh Labour (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 as several of its provisions could destabilise the industrial sector and undermine Bangladesh’s export competitiveness ahead of its LDC graduation. Country’s manufacturing industries are already under ‘unprecedented pressure’ due to global economic challenges, rising domestic costs, and policy uncertainties, he said at an emergency press conference held at BGMEA’s Nurul Qader Auditorium in Dhaka. Hasan Khan expressed deep concern over several provisions in the new labour amendment, particularly the decision to allow trade unions in factories with as few as 20 workers. “This is an unrealistic and destabilising decision,” he said. “Such a low threshold will allow individuals unrelated to the industry to form unions, causing internal conflict and disruption in production.” AI reshaping Bangladesh’s industrial, service sectors: DCCI President He noted that in India, at least 10% of workers or a minimum of 100 workers are required to form a union while in Pakistan, the threshold is 20%. “Compared to these standards, Bangladesh’s provision is the weakest in South Asia. It will send a negative signal to foreign investors,” he added. The BGMEA president also objected to the approval of both the ‘Bhobisshot Tohobi’l and ‘Progoti’ schemes simultaneously, allowing workers to participate in both. “This will force employers to run two parallel financial systems,” Khan said, calling it a recipe for administrative disorder and higher costs. He cited examples from India, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka — all of which operate under a single national pension or provident fund structure. Turning to the recent 41% increase in Chattogram Port tariffs, the BGMEA president said the decision would further burden export-oriented industries already facing steep operational costs. Newly elected leadership of Petrobangla Officers' Association takes oath  “Chattogram Port is not a loss-making entity; it consistently reports profits. As a public service provider, its goal should not be profit maximisation,” he said. The BGMEA chief outlined multiple cost escalations facing the industry: 56% minimum wage increase effective from December 2024, 9% annual wage increment, higher gas and diesel prices, a 60% reduction in export incentives since 2023, and persistently high bank interest rates. “These factors have already raised production costs significantly,” he said.  “The issues we have raised — labour law reform, port tariff increases, and LDC transition — are not short-term concerns. They will shape our future generations’ economic reality,” he said. “On behalf of all export-oriented industries, we urge the government to take prompt, positive, and effective measures that align with the real needs of industry, workers, and the national economy,” he added.  He urged the government to take a business-friendly and pragmatic approach to sustain competitiveness as Bangladesh moves toward LDC graduation. He also called for urgent action to resolve gas shortages, simplify customs and NBR procedures, ensure efficient logistics and infrastructure, and expand access to affordable financing.     

The price of gold in the local market has dropped again within just 24 hours, with the Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS) reducing the rate by Tk 3,674 per bhori (11.664 grams). In a press release issued on Monday night, BAJUS announced that the price of 22-carat gold will now stand at Tk 204,283 per bhori, effective from Tuesday. According to the association, the price adjustment was made considering the fall in the price of pure gold (tejabi gold) in the local market. As per the new rate, the price of 21-carat gold has been set at Tk 194,999 per bhori, 18-carat at Tk 167,145 per bhori, and traditional gold at Tk 138,942 per bhori. BAJUS said a 5 percent government VAT and a minimum 6 percent making charge—determined by the association—must be added to the sale price of gold.  However, the making charge may vary depending on the design and quality of jewellery. Earlier, on October 26, BAJUS reduced gold prices by Tk 1,039 per bhori, setting the 22-carat rate at Tk 207,957 per bhori. With this latest adjustment, BAJUS has revised gold prices 69 times so far this year—increasing them 48 times and reducing them 21 times.

Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) President Taskeen Ahmed on Monday said artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping Bangladesh’s industrial and service sectors, making it imperative to develop smart and skilled human resources to remain competitive in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). He made the remarks while speaking at a roundtable titled ‘Smart Human Capital Development in the Context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)’ held at the DCCI Auditorium. Executive Chairman of the National Skills Development Authority (NSDA) Dr Nazneen Kawshar Chowdhury attended the event as the chief guest. Taskeen said the Fourth Industrial Revolution is not merely a technological shift but a fundamental transformation of production systems, business operations and labour markets. Citing a World Economic Forum report, he noted that nearly one-fourth of existing jobs will be transformed within the next five years. “In the post-LDC era, smart human resources will be a key instrument to sustain competitiveness,” he said, stressing the need for fundamental reforms in the education system, greater emphasis on technical education, and stronger industry-academia collaboration. Dr Nazneen Kawshar highlighted the lack of coordination among government agencies and limited awareness about skills development as major challenges. She said that after establishing its institutional structure, the NSDA is now focusing on human resource training, including initiatives to send 100,000 skilled workers to Japan through language and technical training programmes. She also called for integrating skill development with 4IR needs, enhancing public-private partnerships, and promoting upskilling opportunities for women workers. Presenting the keynote paper, Dr M Niaz Asadullah, Visiting Professor of Economics at the University of Reading, UK, referred to a 2019 a2i-UNDP study projecting the potential loss of around 5.38 million jobs in Bangladesh’s RMG, food, agriculture, furniture, tourism and hospitality sectors by 2030 due to technological advancements. He urged greater investment in workforce training and modernization of the education system to prepare workers for AI-driven transformations. ICMAB President Mahtab Uddin Ahmed said that only 20 percent of graduates secure jobs matching their qualifications, underscoring the need to promote technical and vocational education and change social perceptions regarding skill-based careers. DCCI Senior Vice President Razeev H Chowdhury, Vice President Md Salem Sulaiman, directors and other stakeholders were also present at the discussion.

Customers making the highest amount of bKash payments each month on flight, bus ticket purchases, and hotel bookings will win a trip to Nepal or the Maldives, according to a media statement. The second and third highest payers will receive a Cox’s Bazar tour and a luxury hotel staycation, respectively. In addition, travellers can enjoy cashback, discounts, and coupons worth up to Tk 4,000 on bKash travel payments. To encourage digital payments in travel services, bKash has jointly introduced these prizes with ShareTrip, Amy Travel, and InterContinental Dhaka. Based on the highest bKash payments, a total of 12 winners (3 winners per month over 4 months) will win these prizes during the offer period. The campaign started on October 1, 2025, and will run until January 31, 2026. Detailed information about the offer can be found at this link - https://tinyurl.com/537tapnk. Available offers are: Online Travel Agencies: Many travellers rely on online travel agencies to confirm their hotel or travel tickets before setting out. Customers will receive a cashback of Tk 1,000 to Tk 4,000 when they make a bKash payment of Tk 35,000 or more while booking through specific online travel agencies, including ShareTrip, Amy Travel, GoZayaan, and Firsttrip. This offer can be availed once per day and a maximum of two times during the campaign period. Customers can get the cashback by paying through the bKash app as well as from payment gateway. Travel Agencies: Additionally, for bookings from select travel agencies such as SS International Travels & Tours, Fortune Travels Ltd., Vromonto, Navigator Tourism, and Go Plane, customers can use code ‘T3’ and make a minimum bKash payment of Tk 5,000 to receive a Tk 200 discount. This offer can be availed once per day and up to two times during the campaign, for a total discount of Tk 400. Hotel Booking & Services: The service of booking small or large hotels across the country using bKash payment is quite popular. Customers will get up to Tk 300 cashback on a bKash payment of Tk 10,000 or more for bookings at specific hotels, including Sayeman Beach Resort, Sairu Hill Resorts, Seagull Resort, Momo Inn, and Radisson Blu Chattogram Bay View. The offer can be availed once per month and up to five times during the campaign, for a total cashback of Tk 1,500. Meanwhile, customers will get a Tk 100 discount on a minimum payment of Tk 5,000 using the code ‘T4’ during bKash payment for room bookings at specific hotels and resorts, including Chuti Resort, Brac CDM Savar, Naz Garden, and Nazimgarh Resort. The offer can be used once per day and up to three times during the campaign, for a total discount of Tk 300. Discounts on bKash payments are available not only for travel outside Dhaka but also for staycations within Dhaka. At select hotels such as InterContinental Dhaka, Sheraton Dhaka, and Pan Pacific Sonargaon, customers can use the coupon code ‘S1’ and make a minimum bKash payment of Tk 2,000 to receive a Tk 200 discount. This offer can be used once per day and up to five times during the campaign, for a total discount of Tk 1,000. Air Ticket Booking: Customers can receive discounts by purchasing tickets directly from airline service providers using bKash payments. For ticket bookings from Biman Bangladesh, Novoair, US-Bangla, and Air Astra, customers can use code ‘T1’ and make a minimum bKash payment of Tk 5,000 to receive a Tk 200 discount. This offer can be used once per day and up to two times during the campaign, for a total discount of Tk 400. Bus Ticket Booking: Due to affordability and accessibility, buses are one of the most popular and preferred modes of travel. Customers can also enjoy discounts on bus travel with bKash payments. For ticket purchases from Shyamoli Paribahan, customers can use code ‘T6’ and make a minimum bKash payment of Tk 1,000 to receive a Tk 100 discount. This offer can be used once per day and up to two times during the campaign, for a total discount of Tk 200. Additionally, for ticket purchases from Imperial Express and Sheba Green Line Transport, customers can use code ‘T5’ and make a minimum bKash payment of Tk 1,000 to receive a Tk 50 discount. This offer can be used once per day and up to two times during the campaign, for a total discount of Tk 100. Amusement Park Tickets: To purchase tickets for Fantasy Kingdom, Water Kingdom, Foy’s Lake, Sea World, and Foy’s Lake Basecamp, customers can use code ‘T2’ and make a minimum bKash payment of Tk 500 to receive a Tk 100 discount. This offer can be used once per day and up to two times during the campaign, for a total discount of Tk 200. Airport Lounge: To enhance the joy of travel, bKash customers can enjoy access to the Balaka Executive Lounge at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, along with a “Buy One Get One” offer. By using the lounge and making a bKash payment of Tk 4,800, customers will receive Tk 2,400 cashback. This offer can be availed only once.

In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the country’s leading technology manufacturer Walton has installed Bangladesh’s largest floating solar power plant with a capacity of one megawatt at its headquarters in Chandra, Gazipur. With this initiative, Walton has achieved another milestone toward promoting renewable energy and sustainability in the country’s industrial sector. Mostafizur Rahman Razu, head of Walton’s Environment, Health and Safety Department, said the floating solar power plant sets an example for sustainable industrial development. He said the project not only generates clean electricity but also contributes to fish farming, land conservation, reduced water evaporation, and overall environmental protection. After meeting its own electricity demand, Walton supplies the excess power from the floating plant to the national grid through the net metering system, he added. According to Walton, its sustainability initiatives have helped reduce 911,823 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions and cut its carbon footprint by 10 percent, setting a model for responsible and eco-friendly industrial practices in Bangladesh.

The newly elected representatives of the Petrobangla Officers' Association took oath in a ceremony held on Sunday. The ceremony followed the association's general election, which was held earlier on October 15, 2025, at Petrobangla. Through the oath ceremony, the new leadership takes charge. Petrobangla is the Bangladesh Oil, Gas, and Mineral Corporation, a government-owned national oil company responsible for the exploration, production, transportation, and marketing of the country's oil, gas, and mineral resources. Petrobangla Chairman Md. Rezanur Rahman attended here as the chief guest, while SM Mahbub Alam, Director (Administration) of Petrobangla, attended as the special guest. The oath was conducted by Md. Golam Mortuza, General Manager (Financial Management) of Petrobangla, also served as the Chief Election Commissioner for the Petrobangla Officers' Association Election-2025. The event was held at Dr. Habibur Rahman Auditorium of Petrobangla head office in Kawran Bazar, Dhaka. The elected officers are President M Nasimul Alim, Deputy General Manager (Vigilance), and Senior Vice President Md. Shamim Hasan, General Manager (Audit), Vice Presidents, Md. Shoriful Islam, Deputy General Manager (MEAI), and Shammi Akter, Deputy General Manager (Exploration), General Secretary Md. Fazlul Haque, joint secretary, Mohammad Mahbub Alam, assistant secretary Md. Sakib Mehedi. Additionally, Touhidur Rahman, Nazmul Hasan, Md. Ashik Hossain, Md. Shahriar Sagar, Md. Abir Hossain, Md. Shahadat Hossain, Sabina Akter Runa, Md. Afzal Hossain, Md. Nazmul Islam and Mohammad Abdullah, Deputy Manager (Admin) were elected to various other posts by securing significant votes, according to a press release.   

The Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) has expressed deep concern over the sudden decision to halt all import and export operations through Benapole Land Port after 6 pm, without prior notice or consultation. The move, reportedly taken by Benapole Customs to curb smuggling and illegal goods, is expected to disrupt overall trade activities, the Chamber said. Benapole, Bangladesh’s largest land port, handles the bulk of bilateral trade with India. The abrupt restriction could significantly affect cross-border trade and revenue generation, the DCCI said. According to the Bangladesh Land Port Authority, during the 2024–25 fiscal year, the port processed 20,11,268 metric tonnes of imports and 4,21,713 metric tonnes of exports. Traders reported long queues of trucks, particularly those carrying perishable items, on both sides of the border, increasing the risk of damage and wastage. “Previously, an average of 400 to 450 trucks entered the port daily. After the new restriction, the number has dropped to 180–200 trucks,” said Sajedur Rahman, General Secretary of the Benapole C&F Agent Staff Association. Business users said the decision, reportedly made after consultation with C&F agent representatives, has created chaos at the country’s busiest land port, adversely affecting importers, exporters and other stakeholders. DCCI urged authorities to lift the restrictions immediately and implement effective measures to ensure smooth, uninterrupted trade operations. The Chamber stressed that while coordinated efforts to prevent illegal trade are essential, suspending legitimate trade at the country’s busiest land port is unacceptable