[🇧🇩] Monitoring Bangladesh's Economy

[Saif]

A clear roadmap for economy is absent

Debapriya Bhattacharya, a distinguished fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), has raised questions over whether the interim government was ensuring transparency in formulating economic policies and holding dialogues with stakeholders for reforms.

www.thedailystar.net

A clear roadmap for economy is absent
Debapriya says

Debapriya Bhattacharya, a distinguished fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), has raised questions over whether the interim government was ensuring transparency in formulating economic policies and holding dialogues with stakeholders for reforms.

At a pre-budget discussion jointly organised by NTV and the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) on Tuesday, he cited the example of a new ordinance on tax reform that had been issued on May 12.

The ordinance sought to dissolve the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and replace it through the formation of two divisions -- one for policymaking and another for implementation.

This separation was earlier recommended in a white paper on the state of Bangladesh's economy, which was prepared by a panel led by Bhattacharya and submitted to the chief adviser on December 1 last year.

The separation of duties was recommended to avoid a conflict of interest, said Bhattacharya.

However, revenue officials embarked on a massive protest demanding to repeal of the ordinance and the development of the NBR as a separate and specialised institution.

With overseas trade and revenue activities suffering due to the protests, the government backtracked on its decision this week and promised to amend the law.

"When you do not fully follow the reform committee's suggestion and proceed to implement it (the new law) without any discussion, you inevitably face a regrettable consequence," said Bhattacharya, referring to NBR Chairman Abdur Rahman Khan.

"These will be the consequences even if you do the right thing without engaging in dialogue," he said.

He gave another example of how the stock market was now truly in a moribund state and, in a sense, had been sent to the intensive care unit.

If the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) wants to bring about reforms in the stock market without consulting stakeholders, it will not be successful, Bhattacharya said.

"If there is no openness to dialogue, even a right approach can turn into a wrong one," he said.

"You must engage in discussion and give people the opportunity to speak. Otherwise, what has changed after the fall of a dictatorial government?" he questioned.

On the national budget for the upcoming fiscal year, he said he found no difference in the formulation of the fiscal measures.

The interim government has revised it, but there has been no structural change, said Bhattacharya, also a convenor of the Citizen's Platform for SDGs.

"Where are you giving incentives? Where are you granting exemptions? People do not know. The same lack of transparency that existed during the tenure of the previous dictatorial government is being witnessed now," he said.

He added that mega-projects which were undertaken by the last government were overvalued. "Where have you reduced it?" he questioned.

However, Bhattacharya said, the interim government deserves some thanks for a growth trend in foreign exchange reserves, stability in the foreign exchange market, and a gradual easing of inflation.

Nonetheless, a clear roadmap for the economy is absent, he said, adding, "There is no visible discussion on employment generation."

"What is the government's stance on disparity? This government must prove how it is different from the previous one and what it has done differently," he said.

"Will investors go for plans based on just your six-month plan? This government is legal, but it is not elected. What guarantee is there that the future government will continue its policies?" asked Bhattacharya.

Referring to World Bank data, he said, "Some 27 lakh people have become poorer during the interim government's period. Out of this, 18 lakh are women."

Responding to this, Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, special assistant to the chief adviser, said, "Do not go after it. This World Bank praised the previous government and legitimised that government.

"I can give you examples one after another," he said, adding that bringing about reforms during an economic crisis, which Bangladesh is currently facing, was very tough.

On the other hand, those opposing the reforms are well organised, he said, pointing at the NBR officials who staged the protest.

"These are the realities we are facing," said Chowdhury, adding, "Bangladesh's economy was in the ICU. It is no longer in the ICU."

Regarding discussions with stakeholders, he said he was engaging all stock market stakeholders to ensure sustainable reforms.

Abdul Moyeen Khan, a standing committee member of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, pointed out that the NBR had not held discussions with the business community and political parties ahead of the national budget's formulation.

This was contradicted by NBR Chairman Khan, who said the NBR had indeed held talks with the entire business community and journalists and would try to incorporate their feedback.

"We will try to increase tax revenue, expand the tax net, and reduce non-tariff barriers," he added.

Mohammad Hatem, president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association, Muhammad Abdul Mazid, a former NBR chairman, and Md Hafizur Rahman, administrator of the FBCCI, also spoke at the event.​

 

[Saif]

Startups boom but go bust for caregivers' neglect

Startups are coming up in encouraging numbers in the SME sector but many entrepreneurs are failing to sustain and closing their businesses within a year or two, for lacking in tricks of the trade, sources said. According to sector-insiders and experts, the expected growth of Bangladesh's o

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Missed value addition to BD economy

Startups boom but go bust for caregivers' neglect

Lax marketing knowledge, strategies, entrepreneurs' training throttle SME sector's potential growth

REZAUL KARIM
Published :
May 30, 2025 00:35
Updated :
May 30, 2025 00:35

Startups are coming up in encouraging numbers in the SME sector but many entrepreneurs are failing to sustain and closing their businesses within a year or two, for lacking in tricks of the trade, sources said.

According to sector-insiders and experts, the expected growth of Bangladesh's once-thriving cottage, small and medium enterprises is getting stymied for a lack of effective marketing knowledge, necessary strategies and training of the entrepreneurs.

In the context of Bangladesh, says South Asian Network on Economic Modeling (SANEM) executive director (ED) Dr Selim Raihan in the light of an anatomy of the sector, the challenges facing new SME entrepreneurs, particularly in the area of marketing, are indeed critical.

"Many small business owners begin their ventures with enthusiasm but without sufficient knowledge or strategic planning in marketing. As a result, they struggle to identify target customers, position their products effectively, and compete with established brands," he says about the Achilles' heel that kills startups in the otherwise-potential sector.

The economist, with expertise in economic structuring, says the lack of marketing knowledge for feeding products produced by the sector's owners is a widespread and major problem facing small businesses, which could lead to business failure in the sector.

Although the SMEs are drivers of economic growth and job creation in the country, most SME owners lack formal knowledge and strategic skills in products marketing. They often do not understand the difference between conventional and unconventional marketing methods.

Moreover, due to limited knowledge about the domestic and international markets of the product, they lag behind in product promotion and market linkages, he says, adding that for a lack of adequate knowledge about modern technology, entrepreneurs concerned cannot improve the quality of products and create versatile products tailored to the needs of the buyers.

Effective branding and attractive packaging, determining profitable prices are essential to survive on the competitive market. But SMEs usually pay less attention to this aspect or cannot create quality packaging for lack of financial budget, as per a document produced by the SME Foundation.

There as been a widespread expansion of online marketing and e-commerce platforms these days with faster advances in communications technology. But many SMEs are found still lagging behind in implementing digital marketing strategies.

Because of inadequate budget for conducting marketing activities, inability to bear advertising and promotion costs are major challenges for SMEs. It is often difficult to compete with big brands and foreign products on the market.

Sometimes, even though they are able to produce products according to market demand, SME entrepreneurs face challenges in procuring raw materials and marketing their produced goods for a lack of policy support from various institutions.

The experts suggest taking requisite steps to increase and improve marketing skills and required strategies, organising training and workshop, providing marketing-consulting services, supportive policies and institutional support, special incentives and facilities for SME products marketing by the government.

They also recommend expansion of digital marketing, effective use of social -media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, product listing on e-commerce websites/B2B websites, improvement in product diversity and quality, product design according to customer needs through market research.

Mr. Raihan thinks that, often, SME entrepreneurs lack understanding of digital marketing, customer behaviour, branding, and distribution channels. This knowledge gap leads to poor sales performance, cash-flow issues, and ultimately business failure within the first one or two years.

For weathering the adversities, the SANEM ED opines that a multi-faceted approach is needed. Firstly, aspiring entrepreneurs must be encouraged and supported to undergo training on basic business skills, particularly in marketing, sales strategy, and customer- relationship management. Secondly, there needs to be greater collaboration between government agencies, educational institutions, and the private sector to develop localized and practical training materials tailored for SMEs.

The SME Foundation document suggests increasing product quality and complying with international standards, creative and eco-friendly packaging innovation, organization of fairs/product exhibitions in local and international markets, dissemination of improved courier and logistics services especially in rural areas.

The experts advise overcoming product -marketing challenges through the combined efforts by government, non-governmental organizations, financial institutions and SME entrepreneurs.

To address the various challenges of SME product marketing, the SME Foundation has been providing training in the production of quality products with the help of modern technology since its inception. For the marketing of products of SME entrepreneurs from all over the country, according to SME Foundation officials, the Foundation organises the National SME Product Fair, Divisional SME Product Fair, Heritage Handloom Festival and Buyer-Seller Match-Making Programme in Dhaka, according the document.

In addition, to facilitate the entry of SME entrepreneurs' products into the international market, the SME Foundation supports the participation of SME entrepreneurs in the Dhaka International Trade Fair and international fairs in various countries.

The SME Foundation has so far organized 11 national SME product fairs, 91 regional and divisional SME product fairs, and 4 heritage handloom festivals to expand the market for entrepreneurs.

Managing director Anwar Hossain Chowdhury said there have many problems in the SME business sector. The entrepreneurs have no necessary knowledge and information about products marketing that is a big problem.

He added that after producing products, such entrepreneurs cannot sell the items among the clients due to lack required strategies.

He recommended setting up a SME products exhibition centre as there is no centre in the country currently. Where they will arrange their products and buyers will come and see them and place orders from display hub.

Mr. Chowdhury due to lack of information on related policies, law and rules are also hindered the export growth of the SME items despite huge demand in the global market

In the fiscal budget for 2025-26, now days away, the SME Foundation has sought an allocation of Tk 5.0 billion to help enhance the contribution of SME sector to the country's economy.

According to the preliminary report of the Economic Census 2024 of the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, there are some 11.8 million Cottage, micro, small, and medium enterprises (CMSMEs) which contribute to around 30 per cent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP).

A previous survey, carried out in 2013, shows that the SME sector employs over 20 million people, which accounts for nearly 85 per cent of total industrial- sector employment.

President of Small and Medium Enterprises Owners Association of Bangladesh Md Ali Zaman said they who are professional in the SME sector, they are continuing business anyhow. But, the main problem is competition with large industrial group. SMEs cannot survive by marketing with large companies. As a result, ultimately, the business has to be wound up.

He suggested making the Competition Commission effective and implementing the competition law-2012 properly.

According to the Economic Survey 2024, about 6.47 per cent (or 0.77 million) of the country's 11.88 million SME entrepreneurs are women.

Selim Raihan observes failure to conduct proper market research before launching their products, which further limits their ability to sustain operations in a competitive environment.

The SANEM ED believes that the government can play a significant role by institutionalizing SME development centers across the country that offer continuous learning, business counselling, and marketing support services.

Additionally, the government should invest in building digital platforms where SMEs can showcase and sell their products, thereby reducing their dependence on traditional, costly marketing channels, says the professor of Dhaka University.

The SANEM chief director has emphasized that simplified access to market data, consumer insights, and e-commerce tools can empower entrepreneurs to make informed decisions. Also, financial support through grants or soft loans earmarked for marketing and product development can ease initial burdens.

"If such systemic support is provided, many SMEs in Bangladesh will not only survive but thrive on a competitive market."

Taslima Miji, founder-managing director of Leatherina, thinks there are many problems in the SME sector. She opines that new SME entrepreneurs with potential can be given tax holidays for a certain period.

"The government may offer exemptions to the sector that can add value to the economy so that they can run business after starting a new one," she notes.

Currently, there are more than 10 million SMEs across the country.​

 

[Saif]

Economic indicators are far from bright

Some of the vital economic indicators that have come to light of late are far from encouraging. The country's gross domestic product (GDP) has been projected to grow at 3.97 per cent by the end of this fiscal year. This is the slowest growth in the past 34 years excluding the year 2020 when Covid-1

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Economic indicators are far from bright

Nilratan Halder
Published :
May 30, 2025 00:10
Updated :
May 30, 2025 00:10

Some of the vital economic indicators that have come to light of late are far from encouraging. The country's gross domestic product (GDP) has been projected to grow at 3.97 per cent by the end of this fiscal year. This is the slowest growth in the past 34 years excluding the year 2020 when Covid-19 had its heavy toll on the economy and its growth rate slumped to 3.45 per cent. Similarly, during the first 10 months of the fiscal year 25, the execution rate of the Annual Development Programme (ADP) was 41.31 per cent, marking the lowest implementation rate in the past 15 years during the period under scrutiny. That may, keeping with the tradition of a late spurt, albeit suspect, rise up to a higher percentage but obviously will fall far behind the hundred per cent target.

If these less-than-positive economic indicators are not enough, revelations made at a conference titled "Advancing Gender-Responsive Budgeting and FfD4 Outcome" further add to the discomfort. Here the acronym FfD4 in its full form is the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development held in Seville, Spain from June 30 to July 3 this year. If the Seville conference focused on how to finance sustainable development and reform the international financial architecture, the one organised by the Citizen's Platform for SDGs, Bangladesh and UN Women Bangladesh sheds light on the impacts of a recessionary economy on women in particular. That it has been made worse by the external adverse developments including measly international investment climate is also a fact. An analysis by the think tank Centre for Policy Dialogue finds that as many as 2.1 million people lost their jobs in the first half of the current fiscal year. What is particularly disconcerting is that 85.7 per cent of them to have become unemployed are women.

Now if the gender-biased job losses are read even against the low GDP growth that is likely to contribute a modest $12 billion to the $450-billion economy in the fiscal year 2023-24 to make the size of the economy $462-billion strong in the ongoing fiscal, a foreboding picture of women's empowerment emerges. At the same time, it also points to the economic malaise on account of gross gender disparity in economic participation. It proves to be a cruel irony when per capita income is set to rise from $2,738 in the previous fiscal to $2,820 in the 2024-25 fiscal year. When a large number of people, particularly women whose participation in economy and development misses the gender parity by a wide margin, become freshly jobless, it is a consequence of decline in various economic indicators or even retrogression in some sectors.

To make the matter still worse for the interim government, the National Board of Revenue has failed to achieve the revised and down-sized revenue earning target by Tk 715 billion in the first 10 months of the financial year 2024-25. The revenue growth at a decelerated rate of 3.24 compared to the previous year during this period is unlikely to make a recovery in the remaining two months of the fiscal. So both the domestic and external sources of income show no sign of improvement. Had there been massive investment---both domestic and foreign, economic activities would gain momentum. But the country's political instability and lawlessness do not help the cause.

The rallying cry for a wide-ranging reform also is becoming subdued because of the interim government's lack of dynamic economic governance. In the absence of a bold and radical shift in economic management, even the leading economists who were involved with the task of preparing the white paper on the state of the country's economy expressed their exasperation. They have complained that the government has yet to act on the suggestions they made on a priority basis. Slight improvement in inflation and some stability in the foreign exchange market go to the credit of the governor of the Bangladesh Bank (BB). The central bank's tight monetary policy has made this possible but these are not enough to bring about a turnaround for the economy.

Meanwhile political stakeholders are becoming restive on the question of reform. Different political parties' views are now diametrically opposed to each other. This could be avoided if the interim government did not dilute its concentration to some needlessly controversial issues such as human corridor and leasing out the profitable Chittagong terminal to foreigners. Instead, it would be wise to announce a clear-cut roadmap for election without leaving room for confusion because of a tentative seven-month time gap between December and June.

If some much-needed economic reform agenda were initiated within six or seven months of the interim government's assumption of power, it would have its reflection by this time. Unemployment has already taken its toll and if the economy performs as it does now, more people will become unemployed. Even the better performing readymade garment (RMG) industry amidst the global gloomy manufacturing and business environment will soon lose its steam because of two vital inputs such as gas and power supply. The situation will be more challenging on account of US president's reciprocal tax now vitiating the global commerce and trade. Failure to reform the labour law has already given an edge to competitors of Bangladesh RMG manufacturers in Vietnam and Cambodia. There is no way Bangladesh will be able to take any advantage of diversion of manufacturing units from China. So the prospect of an economic turnaround is hardly bright, if not bleak.​

 

[Saif]

Expatriates' remittance helps Bangladesh make turnaround: Chief Adviser

Recalling the contribution of Bangladeshi expatriates to nation building, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on Friday said the expatriates help Bangladesh make a turnaround from ruins

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Expatriates' remittance helps Bangladesh make turnaround: Chief Adviser
BSSTokyo
Published: 30 May 2025, 22: 42

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus spoke at a community reception at the Bangladesh Embassy in Tokyo on 30 May 2025. PID

Recalling the contribution of Bangladeshi expatriates to nation building, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Friday said the expatriates help Bangladesh make a turnaround from ruins.

"It is the expatriates who help sustain the country (by sending their remittances in hard time)," he said while speaking at a community reception at the Bangladesh Embassy in Tokyo.

Prof Yunus said the ousted government left the state exchequer and banks empty and if the expatriates would not support, Bangladesh would not have turned around.

He said the interim government will, of course, perform the responsibilities bestowed upon it but the participation of the Bangladesh expatriates should be strengthened in nation building.

The Chief Adviser asked them to take initiatives to increase business in Bangladesh.

"As a citizen, you must take the responsibility of the state repair," he said.

The expatriates have relatives and friends in Bangladesh and they have businesses there too and that is why they often visit the country, Prof Yunus said.

"So, overall we have to work together ... you should increase your influence on the Japan government," he said.

On the occasion, three exchange of notes were signed later, respectively on the Development Policy Loan for Economic Reform and Strengthening Climate Change Resilience (418 million USD), the Loan for the Joydebpur-Ishwardi dual-gauge double-lane railway project (641 million USD) and the grant for the human development scholarship (4.2 million USD).

Bangladesh Ambassador to Japan Md Daud Ali and Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Shinichi Saida signed the agreements on behalf of the respective sides.

Chief Adviser Prof Yunus witnessed the signing of the exchange of notes.

Later, he joined a dinner hosted in his honour by the Bangladesh Ambassador to Japan.​

 

[Saif]

undefined | The Financial Express

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Addressing the key challenges of inflation, banking, external sector & capital market
Fahmida Khatun, Mustafizur Rahman, Khondaker Golam Moazzem, Muntaseer Kamal and Syed Yusuf Saadat

Published :
Jun 01, 2025 00:33
Updated :
Jun 01, 2025 00:33

Inflation currently poses a major challenge to Bangladesh's economy. In FY2025, inflation surged to 9.94 per cent, the highest in 12 years, exceeding the target of 7.5 per cent. Despite this, the interim government projected that inflation would fall to 6.5 per cent by 2026, which appears overly optimistic. According to predictions generated by the Multi-layer Perceptron forecast, inflation will unlikely decrease to 6.5 per cent by next year if current conditions persist.

It is important to underscore that supply-side and demand-side factors drive inflation in Bangladesh. Increasing costs of imports due to the depreciation of the Taka, rising global commodity prices, global supply chain disruptions, and the oligopolistic structure of local suppliers significantly contribute to supply constraints and, thereby, inflationary pressures, particularly in food inflation. Food inflation has been notably higher in urban areas than rural regions, while non-food inflation is comparatively greater in rural areas. This further necessitates region-wise targeted policy to address inflation challenges, especially for low-income households. Conversely, demand-side factors, such as an increase in the money supply, may also play an important role in rising inflationary pressures in Bangladesh.

In FY2023, Tk 700 billion was printed for quantitative easing during the tenure of the autocratic regime. An analysis using a Vector Autoregressive (VAR) model and Granger causality tests revealed that an expansion in the money supply is associated with rising inflationary pressures, albeit with a moderate statistical significance. This supports the quantity theory of money (QTM), where more money in circulation fuels inflation. To address inflation, suggested policies include boosting domestic supply to reduce import dependency, regulating oligopolies, and maintaining buffer stocks to cushion supply shocks. BANKING: Bangladesh's banking sector faces deep-seated challenges, including deteriorating capital adequacy, surging non-performing loans (NPLs), weak governance, and political interference.

Key indicators reveal severe vulnerabilities, particularly in State-Owned Commercial Banks (SCBs), where the Capital-to-Risk Weighted Assets (CRWA) ratio turned negative in 2024 and NPLs skyrocketed to BDT 3,457.65 billion by Q2 FY2025, exposing long-concealed weaknesses. Alarmingly, the volume of bad loans far exceeds annual allocations for education and health, highlighting a critical misallocation of resources.

Governance failures, such as politically appointed bank boards, lax internal controls, and weak regulatory oversight, have exacerbated systemic risks. The dual regulation by the Ministry of Finance and Bangladesh Bank undermines central bank independence, while legal inefficiencies delay loan recovery. Recent reforms, including stricter provisioning rules, adopting Expected Credit Loss (ECL) methodologies, and enhanced stress-testing frameworks, aim to improve transparency and risk management. Additionally, measures to professionalise bank management, restrict insider lending, and enforce dividend policies signal progress. However, sustained reform requires stronger political commitment to depoliticise banking operations, close legal loopholes, and hold wilful defaulters accountable. Immediate actions, such as freezing defaulters' assets and enforcing single borrower exposure limits, are crucial. Without systemic changes, the banking sector's instability will continue to hinder economic growth and financial stability.

The banking sector urgently needs bold, long-term reforms to restore confidence and integrity in Bangladesh's banking system.

EXTERNAL SECTOR: Amid the generally subdued macroeconomic performance during the ongoing FY2025, the external sector was a beacon of hope and resilience. The key external sector indicators evinced encouraging trends against robust remittance flows and impressive export performance. The deficit in the trade balance was contained, and the current account and overall balance of payment situation improved tangibly. The high B/B L/C payments for export-oriented intermediate goods also augur well for the performance of the export sector in the coming months. All these had positive implications for foreign exchange reserves- the decline was stalled, and an upturn is already visible. Since January 2025, the exchange rate has stabilised at around BDT 122-123 per USD, helping to ease the pressure of imported inflation.

However, not all trends are positive. Whilst imports did pick up somewhat, the growth has been slow. Growth of imports of capital machinery, as also L/C opening and L/C closing for these items, was negative, indicating that domestic investment remained timid. Exports remain volume driven, alluding to the urgent need for renewed efforts at productivity enhancement and an energetic move towards market and product diversification. The shift from a pegged currency system to a market-driven (managed float) exchange rate system will mean that exchange rate management must be carried out strategically.

The emerging and evolving global trading scenario is becoming increasingly challenging for Bangladesh's external sector performance. The uncertainties for Bangladesh originating from the Trump reciprocal tariffs must be addressed in a time-bound, evidence-based and informed manner. A Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the USA may be put on the cards, but this will call for properly articulating Bangladesh's offensive and defensive interests. The non-tariff barriers India has put in place will be harmful to Bangladesh. These will need to be addressed in two ways- through proactive discussion and by putting in place measures to reduce dependence. As never before, Bangladesh's negotiating capacity will be tested in the coming days. Given this, Bangladesh should consider setting up a dedicated Negotiating Wing to undertake the anticipated bilateral and multilateral discussions. All these should be an integral part of Bangladesh's efforts towards smooth and sustainable LDC graduation.

CAPITAL MARKET: During the first nine months of the interim government, the capital market's performance fell short of expectations, which may be attributed to a combination of ongoing corrective sectoral measures and the lingering effects of past market irregularities. Already, nine months have passed since the new government took over, yet no new IPOs have entered the market; ongoing political uncertainty has narrowed the scope of new IPO enlistment to a further extent. During the last nine months, several strategic decisions have been taken to reform the capital market.

Yet, the implementation process appears to have slowed down due to the commission's bureaucratic procedures and administrative complexities. In this regard, the BSEC should accelerate its administrative decision-making process and ensure the timely submission and implementation of the task force's forthcoming recommendations. BSEC should also introduce an Investor Protection Fund to safeguard retail investors from losses due to fraud or manipulation.

CONCLUSION: The government has initiated several reform measures recently, including separating the National Board of Revenue into two departments - the Revenue Policy and Revenue Management - to improve revenue collection and efficiency, alongside measures aimed at enhancing stock market performance and attracting FDI. Additionally, steps have been taken to address the structural weaknesses in the banking sector, aiming to improve governance and resilience.

However, the success of these initiatives has been limited so far. For example, the NBR reform has faced resistance from within the tax administration, leading to temporary disruptions and necessitating further consultations to address concerns. Governance challenges and regulatory bottlenecks undermine investor confidence and impede economic potential. The government must move beyond piecemeal measures and commit to comprehensive reform. In the upcoming fiscal year, the focus should be on strengthening institutions, improving governance frameworks, and ensuring transparency and accountability in policy implementation. Only with visible and bold reforms can Bangladesh's economy build resilience, attract investment, and sustain inclusive growth in the years ahead.

Dr Fahmida Khatun, Executive Director, Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD); Professor Mustafizur Rahman, Distinguished Fellow, CPD; Dr Khondaker Golam Moazzem, Research Director, CPD; Mr Muntaseer Kamal and Mr Syed Yusuf Saadat, Research Fellows, CPD.

[Abu Saleh Md Shamim Alam Shibly and Tamim Ahmed, Senior Research Associates; Afrin Mahbub, Preetilata Khondaker Huq, Anindita Islam, Md Mehadi Hasan Shamim, Nuzaira Zareen, Ayesha Suhaima Rab, Safrina Kamal, Khaled Al Faruque, Md. Imran Nazir, and Tanbin Alam Chowdhury, Programme Associates; and Syeda Safia Zahid, Research Intern of CPD provide research assistance.]​

 

[Saif]

High-powered panel formed to attract FDI

Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed will lead the panel

www.thedailystar.net

High-powered panel formed to attract FDI
Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed will lead the panel

The government has formed a high-level committee to explore and recommend incentive mechanisms for increasing foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bangladesh.

According to a gazette notification issued by the chief adviser's office on May 29, the five-member committee will be led by Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed.

Other members include Ahsan H Mansur, governor of Bangladesh Bank; Md Abdur Rahman Khan, chairman of the National Board of Revenue; Md Khairuzzaman Mozumder, secretary of the Finance Division; and Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, executive chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida).

The committee has been tasked with submitting its policy recommendations within one month, focusing on practical and competitive incentive packages to bolster FDI flows amid growing regional competition and global economic uncertainties.

"This committee represents a crucial step in aligning Bida's policy instruments with international investment standards," said a senior Bida official.

Bangladesh has seen declining FDI inflows over the past few years, partly due to regulatory bottlenecks, bureaucratic delays, and infrastructural constraints.​

 

[Bilal9]

Bangladesh wants to increase cotton and oil imports from the US​

International Desk
29 May 2025, 17:02

Dhaka wants to import more cotton and oil from the United States in the wake of Washington's decision to impose a 37 percent tariff on Bangladeshi goods. Bangladesh has already made a proposal to the United States in this regard. Bangladesh will use this proposal to discuss tariffs with the United States, said Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the chief advisor to the interim government.

Professor Yunus shared this information with the country's media outlet Nikkei Asia on the sidelines of the Nikkei Forum session held in Japan on Thursday (May 29).

He said, "Since US President Donald Trump wants to reduce the trade deficit with every country in the world, we have made this proposal. If the proposal to buy more American products is accepted, Bangladesh will reduce its imports of these products from other countries. And we will import more from the United States."

Dr. Yunus said, “For example, we buy a lot of cotton from Central Asia. From India, from other countries, now we are thinking… why don’t we buy cotton from the United States? This will reduce our trade deficit with the United States a lot.”

In the current fiscal year, since June, Bangladesh has exported goods worth $6.8 billion to the United States. The country has imported goods worth $2.5 billion from the country. Of this, cotton was worth $361 million.

As one of the world's largest garment producers, Bangladesh bought $7.9 billion worth of cotton this fiscal year, some of which came from Central Asian countries Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. Cotton accounted for 12.5 percent of Dhaka's total imports this fiscal year.

The chief advisor said that Bangladesh has developed a friendship with cotton producers in the United States; who give Bangladesh political advantages in the US administration. He said, “The cotton producers in the United States have become our very good friends. They give us some political advantages in the US administration.”

On the other hand, Bangladesh is dependent on Middle Eastern countries for energy. But this product can also be purchased from the United States, commented Professor Yunus.

The chief advisor said that the date and time for trade talks with the United States have not yet been determined. In addition, it is not certain how much tariff relief will be granted. However, he added that "Bangladesh does not see Trump's threat of imposing additional tariffs as a threat but as an opportunity."

Dr. Yunus gave this interview as the US Court of International Trade had issued a stay on Trump's new tariffs. The court said that Congress has the constitutional responsibility to regulate trade. The president cannot override this legislative responsibility.

In the interview, Dr. Yunus said that during the tenure of former dictator Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, $234 billion was laundered from Bangladesh. In addition, $11 to 12 billion looted within the country has been identified and confiscated.

He said that when the interim government is able to recover these funds, two separate funds will be formed. From which money will be given to the education and health sectors. In addition, this money will be used to 'change' the lives of poor people by making them entrepreneurs.

Source: Nikkei Asia.

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh wants to increase cotton and oil imports from the US​

International Desk
29 May 2025, 17:02

Dhaka wants to import more cotton and oil from the United States in the wake of Washington's decision to impose a 37 percent tariff on Bangladeshi goods. Bangladesh has already made a proposal to the United States in this regard. Bangladesh will use this proposal to discuss tariffs with the United States, said Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the chief advisor to the interim government.

Professor Yunus shared this information with the country's media outlet Nikkei Asia on the sidelines of the Nikkei Forum session held in Japan on Thursday (May 29).

He said, "Since US President Donald Trump wants to reduce the trade deficit with every country in the world, we have made this proposal. If the proposal to buy more American products is accepted, Bangladesh will reduce its imports of these products from other countries. And we will import more from the United States."

Dr. Yunus said, “For example, we buy a lot of cotton from Central Asia. From India, from other countries, now we are thinking… why don’t we buy cotton from the United States? This will reduce our trade deficit with the United States a lot.”

In the current fiscal year, since June, Bangladesh has exported goods worth $6.8 billion to the United States. The country has imported goods worth $2.5 billion from the country. Of this, cotton was worth $361 million.

As one of the world's largest garment producers, Bangladesh bought $7.9 billion worth of cotton this fiscal year, some of which came from Central Asian countries Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. Cotton accounted for 12.5 percent of Dhaka's total imports this fiscal year.

The chief advisor said that Bangladesh has developed a friendship with cotton producers in the United States; who give Bangladesh political advantages in the US administration. He said, “The cotton producers in the United States have become our very good friends. They give us some political advantages in the US administration.”

On the other hand, Bangladesh is dependent on Middle Eastern countries for energy. But this product can also be purchased from the United States, commented Professor Yunus.

The chief advisor said that the date and time for trade talks with the United States have not yet been determined. In addition, it is not certain how much tariff relief will be granted. However, he added that "Bangladesh does not see Trump's threat of imposing additional tariffs as a threat but as an opportunity."

Dr. Yunus gave this interview as the US Court of International Trade had issued a stay on Trump's new tariffs. The court said that Congress has the constitutional responsibility to regulate trade. The president cannot override this legislative responsibility.

In the interview, Dr. Yunus said that during the tenure of former dictator Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, $234 billion was laundered from Bangladesh. In addition, $11 to 12 billion looted within the country has been identified and confiscated.

He said that when the interim government is able to recover these funds, two separate funds will be formed. From which money will be given to the education and health sectors. In addition, this money will be used to 'change' the lives of poor people by making them entrepreneurs.

Source: Nikkei Asia.

I heard that Bangladesh was considering duty free access for 100 US goods to increase import from the USA. This will help save Bangladesh from extra tariff on Bangladeshi products slapped by the Trump administration.

 

[Saif]

May sees second-highest monthly remittance in Bangladesh’s history

Bangladesh recorded its second-highest monthly remittance inflow in history in May, receiving $2.97 billion, according to official data. The figure marks a 31.70 per cent year-on-year increase compared to the $2.25 billion remitted in May 2024. With this latest inflow, total remittance earnings f

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

May sees second-highest monthly remittance in Bangladesh’s history

FE ONLINE REPORT
Published :
Jun 01, 2025 19:29
Updated :
Jun 01, 2025 19:45

Bangladesh recorded its second-highest monthly remittance inflow in history in May, receiving $2.97 billion, according to official data.

The figure marks a 31.70 per cent year-on-year increase compared to the $2.25 billion remitted in May 2024.

With this latest inflow, total remittance earnings for the first eleven months of the current fiscal year (FY 2024–25) have reached $27.51 billion—providing much-needed relief to the country’s foreign currency reserves.

The robust growth is seen as a positive sign for the economy, which continues to grapple with foreign exchange shortages.​

 

[Saif]

Attracting FDI: Stability is the key

In recent months, Bangladesh has been visibly active in its bid to attract foreign direct investment (FDI). High-profile investment forums have been organised, numerous trade delegations from Western countries have visited Dhaka, and most recently, a large business delegation from China, led by its

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Attracting FDI: Stability is the key

MIR MOSTAFIZUR RAHAMAN
Published :
Jun 03, 2025 00:02
Updated :
Jun 03, 2025 00:02

In recent months, Bangladesh has been visibly active in its bid to attract foreign direct investment (FDI). High-profile investment forums have been organised, numerous trade delegations from Western countries have visited Dhaka, and most recently, a large business delegation from China, led by its Commerce Minister, visited the country. These activities signal the government's awareness of the need for FDI and its willingness to project Bangladesh as an emerging destination for global investment.

However, beyond the banners, receptions, and bilateral talks, there lies a more sobering reality. Economists and entrepreneurs -- both domestic and foreign -- remain largely unconvinced about the true readiness of Bangladesh to absorb and sustain FDI on a meaningful scale. The enthusiasm generated by such events is not translating into actual investment inflows. The scepticism is rooted in several persistent and structural issues -- political instability, bureaucratic red tape, outdated visa policies, and infrastructural bottlenecks like unreliable energy supply.

Foreign investors do not merely look for profit; they look for predictability, consistency, and long-term security. In this context, political stability is paramount. If there is any lingering doubt about the continuity of policies, or if street demonstrations become a frequent feature of urban life, it raises red flags. No matter how attractive the financial incentives may be, investors will hesitate to put their capital in an environment where they fear disruption, vandalism, or shutdowns resulting from political unrest.

Indeed, political stability is not a luxury -- it is a prerequisite for economic development. Bangladesh's past growth trajectory in the garments and textile sector was bolstered during relatively stable periods when the political temperature allowed industries to function smoothly. But today, if political contestations translate into traffic gridlocks, shutdowns, or even violence, the potential of the country as an FDI destination weakens substantially.

Therefore, if Bangladesh is serious about attracting sustainable foreign investment, it must go beyond showcasing opportunities and commit to ensuring political calm. Investors do not have the time -- or appetite -- to wade through chaos.

Another major deterrent for investors is the country's cumbersome bureaucratic processes, especially concerning customs clearance. Numerous foreign investors have pinpointed this as one of the greatest challenges of doing business in Bangladesh. The customs system is often riddled with procedural delays, a lack of transparency, and arbitrary decision-making. These delays don't just inconvenience business; they cost money -- a lot of it -- and create a general atmosphere of unpredictability.

In a globalised economy where the speed of delivery can make or break a business model, time lost in clearing unnecessary hurdles is a dealbreaker. Goods stuck in customs, inconsistent assessments, and multiple layers of unofficial negotiations only dampen enthusiasm. Simplifying, digitising, and depoliticising customs procedures is not a matter of prestige -- it is a fundamental requirement to become competitive.

Another baffling policy flaw lies in the current visa regime for foreign investors. Presently, foreign businesspersons often have to renew their visas every three months. This sends a poor signal -- not only of inefficiency but also of a lack of welcome. Investors want to feel valued and secure, not scrutinised or inconvenienced at every turn. The visa process should be overhauled to issue long-term, multi-entry business visas with a straightforward renewal mechanism. Other investment hubs in the region have already moved in this direction -- and Bangladesh cannot afford to lag behind.

The structure of Bangladesh's economy, which relies heavily on protecting domestic industries through high tariffs, also needs careful reconsideration. While protectionism can be justified during the early stages of industrialisation, prolonged reliance on it discourages foreign investors who find local production costs inflated and competitiveness low. If domestic products are costlier than imports, there is little incentive for global manufacturers to establish production facilities locally.

To attract FDI, Bangladesh must signal that it is open to competition and committed to free-market principles. This does not mean abandoning all protection but striking a balance that encourages domestic industries to innovate and scale up, while making room for foreign capital and expertise.

Industrial investment is energy-intensive. Yet, factory owners and industrialists in Bangladesh continue to complain about the unreliable energy supply -- be it electricity or gas. Frequent power outages, poor grid infrastructure, and gas shortages are not just technical hiccups -- they are business risks. When factories cannot run at full capacity due to energy disruptions, the cost of production increases, deadlines are missed, and investor trust erodes.

As the country moves towards attracting investments beyond the garments sector -- particularly in high-tech manufacturing, electronics, and heavy industries -- it must prioritise a reliable and expanded energy supply. This includes both conventional sources and renewable alternatives, with strategic investment in power infrastructure.

A quick glance at regional comparisons further illustrates the challenge. Bangladesh's FDI-to-GDP ratio is a mere 0.75 per cent, significantly lower than India's 1.7 per cent and Vietnam's impressive 4.7 per cent. This is not just a statistic -- it is a symptom of missed opportunities. Vietnam, in particular, has emerged as a global case study in successfully attracting FDI through structural reforms, political stability, and a welcoming business climate.

There is, however, an emerging window of opportunity for Bangladesh. With the U.S. imposing tariffs on Chinese exports and many Western firms looking to diversify their supply chains away from China, Bangladesh stands to gain. But capital will not shift to Bangladesh merely on the basis of geography or labor cost. The country must prove that it is a reliable, efficient, and politically stable destination.

The frequent high-level visits, conferences, and investment summits are useful in showcasing Bangladesh's potential. But potential alone does not attract investment -- performance does. Foreign investors are smart, pragmatic, and well-informed. They don't make decisions based on ceremonial handshakes or promotional brochures. They conduct due diligence, observe the socio-political dynamics, and analyse systemic bottlenecks before committing their money.

Thus, while the optics of engagement are encouraging, they must be accompanied by real, visible reforms. A stable political environment, streamlined customs process, investor-friendly visa policy, open trade structure, and reliable energy infrastructure are not optional -- they are essential.

The government, if it truly seeks to make Bangladesh a serious player in the global investment arena, must realise that sound bites and symbolic gestures are not enough. Structural reforms, political maturity, and administrative efficiency are the only real currencies in this highly competitive global race for capital.

Bangladesh stands at a crossroads. With its demographic dividend, strategic location, and proven industrial base in garments, it has the right ingredients to become a South Asian investment hub. But unless the climate of uncertainty is replaced with stability and reform, the opportunities ahead will remain untapped, and foreign investors will continue to look elsewhere. The time to act is now.​

 

[Saif]

All instruments positive, inflation likely to fall ahead of schedule: BB Governor

Bangladesh Bank (BB) Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur on Tuesday said inflation is expected to come down to a reasonable level earlier than the target set in the FY2025- 26 budget, thanks to a stabilised exchange rate. "A fluctuating exchange rate is one of the challenges for increasing inflation. On th

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

All instruments positive, inflation likely to fall ahead of schedule: BB Governor

UNB
Published :
Jun 03, 2025 19:56
Updated :
Jun 03, 2025 22:24

Bangladesh Bank (BB) Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur on Tuesday said inflation is expected to come down to a reasonable level earlier than the target set in the FY2025- 26 budget, thanks to a stabilised exchange rate.

"A fluctuating exchange rate is one of the challenges for increasing inflation. On the other hand, bumper food production brings a blessing to decreased food inflation from 14 per cent to around 8 per cent now. The non-food inflation has declined to below 9 per cent from over 12 per cent," the governor said while speaking at a post-budget press conference in the capital's Osmani Memorial Auditorium.

He said the budget aims to keep average inflation at 6.5 per cent and expressed his belief that inflation would decrease even further.

The governor highlighted the exchange rate as one of the major challenges in curbing inflation, adding that the situation has already improved significantly.

Dr Mansur also pointed out that prices of oil and gas in the international market are not expected to rise further, while Bangladesh's export capacity has significantly improved. Besides, the central bank has maintained a tight monetary policy to bring down the inflation rate.

These combined efforts will help bring inflation below the target set in the budget, he said, adding, the interest rate will be decreased after the inflation rate reaches a reasonable level.​

 

[Saif]

Merchandise export earnings see double-digit growth in May

The country's single-month merchandise-export earnings in May 2025 witnessed a double-digit growth of 11.45 per cent year on year to fetch US$4.73 billion due to the sustained performance of ready-made garment industry. Bangladesh earned $4.25 billion in May 2024, according to the Export Pro

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Merchandise export earnings see double-digit growth in May

FE REPORT
Published :
Jun 04, 2025 01:15
Updated :
Jun 04, 2025 01:15

The country's single-month merchandise-export earnings in May 2025 witnessed a double-digit growth of 11.45 per cent year on year to fetch US$4.73 billion due to the sustained performance of ready-made garment industry.

Bangladesh earned $4.25 billion in May 2024, according to the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) data released on Tuesday.

Earnings from ready-made garment (RMG) exports in May 2025 amounted to $3.91 billion, up from $3.50 billion in May 2024, representing a monthly growth of 11.85 per cent.

The overall exports, however, stood at $44.94 billion during the July-May period of FY 2024-25, reflecting a 10-percent year-on-year growth.

Bangladesh fetched $40.85 billion during the same period of the last fiscal year, the data showed.

RMG sector maintained its dominance as Bangladesh's largest export earner contributing $ 36.55 billion registering a 10.20-per cent increase over the same period last fiscal year.

Within the RMG segment, knitwear exports rose by 10.98 per cent to $19.61 billion, while woven garments grew by 9.30 per cent to $16.94 billion.

Home textiles marked a 4.78-per cent growth to $824.58 million during the first eleven months of the current fiscal year.

When asked, Mahmud Hasan Khan, managing director of Rising Group, said the performance could be higher if there was no gas supply disruption, especially in May.

He is also the panel leader of the Forum that won the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) biennial election for the 2025-27 term with the highest 31 posts of director out of 35.

Mr Khan said the overall work orders situation is good and backward linkage suppliers have affected due to the disruption causing some delays in shipments.

Talking to the FE, Fazlul Hoque, former president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), termed the growth 'good and normal', saying that there is nothing big change.

Responding to a question, he said it would take some more months or August onwards to understand the US new tariff regimes impact saying there is on average a 50:50 arrangement between most US buyers and local exporters that each of them would share half of the additional 10 per cent duty burden for the interim period.

Meantime, earnings from jute and jute goods exports continued to struggle as it recorded a 4.77-percent decline to fetch $ 769 million during the July-May period.

However, monthly figures showed a slight improvement, with May export rising 16.79 per cent year-on-year.

Earnings from leather and leather products registered a 12.55-percent year-on-year growth, earning $1.05 billion during the first eleven months of FY'25.

Leather footwear export earnings increased by 28.96 per cent to $620.17 million.

Agricultural products earned $927.56 million, showing 3.17 per cent growth during the July-May period of FY25 but in May alone, exports fell by 8.15 per cent compared to May 2024.

Talking to the FE, agricultural products exporters, however attributed that a number of factors including cut in cash incentive by the government, high import costs for most of the agricultural inputs and other ingredients mostly used for processing foods, paucity of required air spaces coupled with higher freight charges for the declining trend in the sector's performance.

Frozen and live fish exports recorded 17.53 per cent growth to earn $410.19 million during the July-May period of FY'25, led by shrimp shipment that increased by 16.75 per cent to $273.16 million. Engineering product recorded 12.40 per cent growth and earned $498.23 million.

Plastic product exports stood at $270.16 million during the first eleven months of FY25 marking 18.62 per cent growth.​