Newsletter At A Glance…
Here’s what’s inside this month — a snapshot of EuroCham Bangladesh’s key policy developments, trade insights, advocacy efforts, and member achievements shaping Bangladesh’s trade and business ecosystem in the year ahead.
In the News This Month!
- Chattogram Port: A Month of Records, Strains, and Strategic Engagement
- Bangladesh’s National Election 2026: Developments & the EU
- Bangladesh RMG Sector: January Highlights
Feature Articles
- EU–Bangladesh Trade: From Preference to Partnership
- Dairy: Bangladesh’s Next Big Development Story
Advocacy with Working Groups
- Tax, Trade & Customs Working Group: Budget 2026–27 Advocacy
EuroCham Events
- EuroCham Business Evening 2026: Delivering for European Businesses
- Chairperson’s Visit: 16th EU–India Summit & EU–India Business Forum
Updates from Regional EBOs
- EBO India: Virtual Dialogue on IMEC and EU–India FTA
- EuroCham Cambodia: Highlights
- EuroCham Vietnam: Highlights
Member Highlights
- LafargeHolcim Bangladesh: Top Employer 2026
- GEODIS Bangladesh: CSR Highlights
- Syngenta Bangladesh: Innovation Leader of the Year & Farmer School Opening
- DBL Group: ICSB Silver Award
- CCI Bangladesh: Launch of WiNG
- Rahman’s Chambers: Recent Achievements
Trade & Business Statistics
- Key Economic Indicators: Bangladesh Bank
In The News This Month!
Chattogram Port: A Month of Records, Strains, and Strategic Engagement
Historic Highs in Cargo, Container and Vessel Handling
Chattogram Port, Bangladesh’s prime seaport, began the year by recording its highest-ever performance in container, cargo and vessel handling in 2025, reflecting steady growth in foreign trade and improved operational efficiency.
For the first time since container operations began in 1977, annual container throughput crossed 34 lakh TEUs, with total handling reaching 34.09 lakh TEUs, up from 32.75 lakh TEUs a year earlier. Overall cargo handling rose by 11.43 percent year-on-year to 13.82 crore tonnes, while vessel calls increased by 10.5 percent to 4,273, underlining the port’s central role in managing over 90 percent of Bangladesh’s trade. (The Daily Star)
Operational Bottlenecks and Congestion Emerge
Amid high levels of port activity, structural operational challenges became more visible, as severe congestion developed at the port’s outer anchorage due to an acute shortage of lighterage vessels.
By mid-January, 108 vessels carrying more than 4.5 million tonnes of cargo, including large volumes of Ramadan-related essentials such as wheat, edible oil and pulses, were waiting offshore, raising concerns over supply disruptions and price pressures. (The Business Standard)
The situation worsened further with a record 176 mother vessels anchored, prompting the Ministry of Shipping to issue a five-day ultimatum to importers to clear cargo and release lighter vessels or face legal action. Authorities cited the use of lighter vessels as floating warehouses, combined with slow and largely manual unloading systems, as key contributors to prolonged delays and artificial supply gaps. (The Business Standard)
Modernisation Efforts and EU Delegation Visit
Despite the current operational challenges, port authorities have continued to emphasise modernisation and capacity-building initiatives, reflecting a longer-term focus on improving efficiency, resilience, and service standards at Chattogram Port.
On Thursday, 22 January 2026, European Union Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller visited the port and met with Chairman of the Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman. During the visit, Port authorities briefed the EU delegation on recent achievements, including record cargo handling, reduced ship turnaround and dwell times, appointment of foreign operators at Pangaon ICT and Laldia Container Terminal, adoption of green technology at the Bay Terminal and Matarbari projects, digitisation initiatives, and enhanced security systems.
The delegation welcomed the port’s progress and discussed future cooperation, with the EU expressing interest in supporting capacity building, technical training, green port development, and zero-carbon initiatives, alongside broader collaboration to strengthen Bangladesh’s maritime and trade infrastructure. (New Age)
Following the visit, Ambassador Miller also shared his views in a video message, stating: “We are investing in port infrastructure projects, trade facilitation, port security. A great example of EU-Bangladesh cooperation.” (European Union in Bangladesh)
Taken together, the month’s developments highlight both the operational pressures facing Chattogram Port and the importance of sustained modernisation efforts. Addressing immediate bottlenecks while advancing longer-term reforms will be essential to strengthening efficiency, resilience and trade facilitation going forward.
Najifa Arshad
Operations | EuroCham Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s National Elections 2026: Developments and the European Union’s Engagement
Bangladesh Gears Up for Historic National Elections
Bangladesh is set to hold its 13th National Parliamentary Election, alongside a referendum on the July Charter, on 12 February 2026, marking a significant milestone in the country’s democratic journey. The Election Commission formally announced the schedule in early December, triggering the start of the electoral process, including nomination submission, scrutiny, campaign activities, and the enforcement of the electoral code of conduct. Alongside the general election, voters will also decide on a nationwide constitutional referendum, underscoring the transformative nature of this democratic exercise. With voting set to take place nationwide under an expanded polling window and extensive administrative preparations already underway, the authorities have described the election as a historic opportunity to ensure a credible, inclusive, and peaceful process following a prolonged period of political transition. The electoral process is widely viewed, both domestically and internationally, as a pivotal moment for reaffirming democratic norms and ensuring political stability, governance continuity, and economic confidence. (The Daily Star; New Age BD)
European Union’s Engagement and Perspective
The European Union has reiterated its support for a peaceful, inclusive, and credible electoral process in Bangladesh, viewing the national election scheduled for 12 February 2026 as a key milestone in the country’s democratic transition. During a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on 7 January 2026, Paola Pampaloni, Acting Managing Director for Asia-Pacific at the European External Action Service (EEAS), said the EU attaches “top priority” to its relationship with Bangladesh and believes a successful democratic transition could allow bilateral ties to “reach new heights,” while emphasising the importance of stability, democratic governance, and institutional reform (The Business Standard). Professor Yunus reaffirmed the interim government’s commitment to ensuring a free, fair, participatory, and peaceful election. According to the Chief Adviser’s Office, the meeting also discussed negotiations on the Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA), the upcoming general election and referendum, combating illegal migration, and expanding trade and investment (The Daily Star). The meeting was attended by Lutfey Siddiqi, Special Envoy of the Chief Adviser; Lamiya Morshed, SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator and Senior Secretary; and Michael Miller, European Union Ambassador to Bangladesh. (Chief Adviser GOB FB Post, 7 Jan 2026)
Reflecting this engagement and the stated support for a peaceful, inclusive, and credible electoral process in Bangladesh, the EU has deployed a comprehensive Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) following a formal invitation from the Bangladeshi authorities (EEAS; The Daily Star). The mission is led by Ivars Ijabs, Member of the European Parliament, who stated:
“I am honoured to lead this EU Election Observation Mission to Bangladesh, which will deliver an independent and impartial assessment of the electoral process. This mission is a tangible example of the EU support to the people of Bangladesh and their aspiration for stronger democratic institutions, rule of law and human rights” (EEAS).
As part of the mission’s comprehensive observation approach, 56 long-term observers have already been deployed across all 64 districts of Bangladesh, with additional short-term observers expected closer to polling day (The Daily Star; New Age; The Brussels Times). The European Union and the interim government both have indicated that a credible electoral outcome could help advance cooperation under the recently finalised Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA), potentially opening new avenues for enhanced trade, investment, and long-term collaboration between Bangladesh and the EU (The Daily Star; The Business Standard; Chief Adviser’s Office).
Nujhat Anjum Silva
Operations | EuroCham Bangladesh
Bangladesh RMG Sector: January Highlights
US-Bound RMG Exports Fall Amid Higher Tariffs
Bangladesh’s ready-made garment exports to the United States declined by 11% year-on-year in October, as higher tariffs imposed under the Trump administration reduced demand and affected shipment volumes to the country’s largest export destination. The decline reflects a broader slowdown in US apparel imports, which also fell during the same period, impacting major garment-exporting countries including Bangladesh. (The Business Standard)
NBR and BGMEA Introduce Digital Export Clearance System
In a separate development, the National Board of Revenue and BGMEA launched a real-time garment export clearance system, linking the ASYCUDA World customs platform with the BGMEA’s electronic utilisation declaration system to enable digital verification and faster clearance of export consignments. The initiative is intended to reduce paperwork, improve transparency, and streamline bonded facility management for garment exporters. (The Daily Star)
Textile Mill Shutdown Threat Raises Supply Concerns
Textile mill owners warned of an indefinite shutdown over disputes related to bonded facility policies for yarn imports, raising concerns about raw material supply to garment factories ahead of the national polls. Industry insiders warned that an actual shutdown of textile mills would have far-reaching consequences, as a halt in yarn production would disrupt the garments supply chain and more than 10 lakh workers employed in the sector could face uncertainty over wages and benefits. Economists cautioned that large-scale closures in the textile sector could add further strain to an economy already grappling with multiple challenges, while difficulties in repaying bank loans could push non-performing loans even higher. Against this backdrop, experts urged the government to act swiftly to reach an acceptable solution that balances the interests of yarn-producing textile mills and garment exporters. (The Business Standard)
Najifa Arshad
Operations | EuroCham Bangladesh
Feature Article
EU–Bangladesh Trade Relations: From Preference to Partnership
Bangladesh’s trade relationship with the European Union (EU) is entering a decisive transition phase as the country approaches graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026. Today, Bangladesh is the largest beneficiary of the EU’s Everything but Arms (EBA) arrangement, exporting goods worth €21,645 million to the EU in 2024, with all exports benefiting from EBA preferences. This preferential access has underpinned Bangladesh’s export growth and EU market integration for more than a decade.
The next few years, however, will be shaped by one central question: what replaces EBA— and how predictable will the replacement be for business? Public reporting indicates the EU has granted a transition period that would allow Bangladesh to continue enjoying EBA benefits until November 2029. After that point, the commonly discussed pathways narrow to (1) qualifying for GSP+, or (2) pursuing a negotiated trade framework such as an FTA/EPA/CEPA-style arrangement. For businesses, the importance lies less in labels and more in certainty: tariffs, rules of origin, compliance expectations, and implementation clarity.
The Strategic Backdrop: partnership architecture is moving, but trade certainty remains the core question
A key diplomatic signal arrived in January 2026: Bangladesh and the EU reported that they had finalised the text of a Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation (PCA) following the fifth round of negotiations held 7–8 January 2026. While the PCA is not a trade agreement, it can strengthen the wider institutional foundation for dialogue and cooperation that often supports deeper economic engagement.
At the same time, Bangladesh has signalled interest in exploring a more structured trade arrangement with the EU, including the possibility of an Free Trade Agreement (FTA). EuroCham Bangladesh has engaged with this discussion as a representative voice of European businesses on the ground—reflecting both the concerns of EU operators in Bangladesh and the reality that Bangladesh’s export success in Europe has been materially enabled by EBA preferences.
“Level playing field” and Policy Stability are Becoming Trade Fundamentals
The post-EBA conversation is not only about tariff lines—it is about whether Bangladesh can offer the predictability and fairness that a deeper economic partnership requires. EU Ambassador Michael Miller recently emphasised the need for a “level playing field for EU operators,” consistent policy stability, and the completion of ongoing reforms to further strengthen Bangladesh–EU ties, at the EuroCham Business Evening 2026, hosted by EuroCham Bangladesh, where he also chaired the inaugural EuroCham Advisory Council meeting—bringing together EuroCham’s world-class private sector representatives alongside the EU Member State Ambassadors.
In commercial terms, this maps to a familiar investor checklist: transparent rules, consistent enforcement, reduced discretionary barriers, and stable policies that allow companies to make multi-year decisions. This is also why an FTA discussion—beyond tariff preferences—matters to the EU. Modern trade frameworks increasingly function as stability packages, combining market access with clearer rules, stronger institutions, and structured dialogue to manage frictions before they become disputes. They can also provide leverage to address regulatory barriers and embed shared expectations on sustainability, labour standards, and responsible business conduct.
An Implementable Post-2029 Pathway
The core issue is not simply “FTA or not FTA.” It is whether Bangladesh can secure a predictable, realistic, implementable post-2029 pathway that:
- preserves competitiveness for flagship exports (especially RMG),
- supports diversification into non-RMG sectors,
- strengthens two-way trade and investment linkages,
- and reduces the systemic economic risks associated with a sharp preference cliff.
A critical additional point is feasibility: GSP+ does not currently present a straightforward alternative if Bangladesh does not meet key eligibility criteria in time. That reality increases the value—at minimum—of exploratory and phased discussions on a negotiated framework, so that policy pathways are not left to the final years of the transition.
RMG & European Business Perspective: preference erosion is a direct competitiveness risk
Bangladesh’s exposure is highest in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector because EU– Bangladesh trade is heavily concentrated in apparel. Public reporting notes that garments account for around 92% of EU-bound shipments, and that more than half of Bangladesh’s total exports go to the EU. In a market where buyers benchmark landed costs across multiple sourcing countries, the end of EBA—without a credible preferential successor— would translate quickly into cost pressure and a loss of relative advantage in price- sensitive product segments.
This is not only Bangladesh’s concern; it is equally a commercial risk for European brands, retailers, and manufacturers operating in and trading with Bangladesh. Many European buyers are already stress-testing alternative sourcing destinations—not necessarily as a strategic shift, but as a hedge against uncertainty over post-preference market access and pricing. Even where stakeholders debate whether GSP+ would fully protect Bangladesh’s flagship exports, the real business issue is predictability: uncertainty can disrupt multi-year sourcing commitments, supplier development plans, and investment decisions on both sides.
The risk is also not just tariff arithmetic. EU buyers increasingly operate under tighter sustainability, traceability, and due diligence expectations. When long-term market access looks unclear, it can directly influence decisions on supplier onboarding, capacity allocation, and financing upgrades. For RMG suppliers in Bangladesh, clearer rules beyond 2029 make it easier to justify investment in compliance systems, productivity improvements, and product diversification. For European businesses, it enables maintaining stable sourcing relationships in Bangladesh without eroding competitiveness.
What an FTA adds for both sides: an FTA track keeps a high-certainty option on the table to manage the single largest exposure (RMG) while supporting diversification. Beyond tariff outcomes, a modern agreement can also strengthen practical trade facilitation—such as
customs cooperation and clearer, more consistent rules-of-origin administration— reducing delays and compliance friction that quietly add costs throughout apparel supply chains.
Non-RMG Sectors—diversification and stability depend on predictable access
Bangladesh’s export diversification ambitions—covering light engineering, plastics, agro- processing, footwear/leather goods, home textiles, and other emerging categories—will face sharper constraints as preferences change, especially if EBA ends without an alternative framework in place. Newer and smaller exporters typically operate with thinner margins and higher fixed costs for compliance, testing, certification, and market development. Preference erosion reduces the “headroom” they need to scale, creating a dual challenge: protecting the RMG base while simultaneously building new export pillars.
These constraints matter directly to European businesses beyond apparel. Concerns increasingly extend to the wider economic and investment environment: a major shock to the RMG sector could spill over into export earnings, employment, and social stability, undermining the broader investment climate. For European companies operating in Bangladesh or relying on Bangladesh-linked supply chains, that translates into heightened risks around business continuity, security, and long-term planning—and, in a downside scenario, wider pressures including migration dynamics toward Europe.
This is where an FTA’s value becomes more than tariffs. A modern trade framework can strengthen the practical conditions that non-RMG exporters need to grow reliably—trade facilitation, standards cooperation, transparency, and ongoing institutional dialogue— helping firms meet EU requirements and compete on more than price. The transition window to late 2029 should therefore be treated not only as a countdown to a tariff change, but as a critical period to strengthen Bangladesh’s “trade readiness” systems—customs efficiency, testing and certification capacity, standards and traceability infrastructure, and overall predictability. That combination supports diversification while also reducing the macro-stability risks that concern European investors and supply-chain decision makers across sectors.
Two-way Trade and EU Business Perspective: an FTA can shift the relationship from preference-driven to partnership- driven
The Bangladesh–EU economic relationship has expanded strongly, yet it remains structurally uneven—Bangladesh exports far more to the EU than it imports. EU data also points to meaningful, but still under-realised, two-way investment depth: the EU reports its FDI stock in Bangladesh at €2.1 billion (2023), while Bangladesh’s FDI stock in the EU is far smaller at €95 million.
This imbalance matters because a modern FTA typically goes beyond tariffs to improve transparency, reduce procedural friction, strengthen standards cooperation, and increase predictability for investment and operations. A structured post-EBA pathway—whether through GSP+ readiness or a negotiated FTA—could help unlock stronger two-way linkages:
For European companies, greater predictability can increase incentives to expand in Bangladesh, especially where Bangladesh is building capacity (advanced manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, agro-value chains, and digital services).
For Bangladesh, deeper investment linkages can support upgrading: technology, management systems, quality, traceability, and higher value-added production.
In short: EBA supports export volumes. An FTA can support export volumes and investment-led upgrading.
What Regional FTAs Signals: geopolitics and competitiveness are shaping trade architecture in the region
A useful regional reference is the EU–India Free Trade Agreement, which was formally concluded and signed at the 16th EU–India Summit on 27 January 2026 in New Delhi—a landmark agreement under the “Towards 2030: Joint India-EU Comprehensive Strategic Agenda”. Announced by leaders on both sides, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the agreement marked the culmination of nearly two decades of negotiations and stands as one of the most significant trade accords concluded between two major global partners. For a concise breakdown of the agreement’s overall advantages and specific opportunities for European agricultural exporters, see the European Commission’s EU–India FTA Main Benefits Fact Sheet and EU–India FTA: EU Agri-Food Exports Fact Sheet, which outline key economic and sectoral gains.
Crucially, this outcome sits on top of sustained diplomatic effort and repeated sittings. The negotiations spanned almost 20 years, with at least 14 formal rounds, including six rounds in 2025 alone, reflecting a sharp acceleration in the final phase. This underscores a central reality of trade diplomacy: “momentum” is built through persistent, technically detailed engagement over multiple years, not a single summit moment. In that sense, the Republic Day–Summit sequence in January 2026 did not create momentum so much as crystallise it, celebrating the actual milestone—the formal signing of the FTA—and bringing a long, complex negotiation process to political closure. For Bangladesh, the key lesson is procedural as well as strategic. Even after a political conclusion or signing, trade agreements typically require further steps—legal finalisation, technical review, translation, and ratification—before they take effect. A “conclusion,” therefore, marks a milestone in direction and intent, not immediate operational change.
At the same time, the competitiveness signal is already visible elsewhere in the region. Vietnam’s EU agreement is not hypothetical—EVFTA has been in force since 1 August 2020, providing a stable, rules-based pathway for tariff reduction and clearer long-term access conditions. This advantage has been further reinforced by the EU and Vietnam’s decision on 29 January 2026 to elevate their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership—a milestone that deepens trade, investment, and supply-chain cooperation within a broader geopolitical framework and makes Vietnam the first ASEAN country to reach this highest level of partnership with the EU. For RMG/apparel, that matters because EU buyers increasingly design sourcing around certainty and predictability, not only price. An operational FTA can reinforce confidence in duty trajectories and compliance pathways—factors that can shape order allocation, supplier consolidation, and investment decisions across value segments.
More importantly, the direction of travel in the region is clear. Across sectors, businesses increasingly view FTAs as stability and predictability packages, not just “tariff-cutting deals.” They can help make trade smoother by aligning or recognizing standards, improving regulatory cooperation, speeding up customs and procedures, and boosting investor confidence—alongside market access improvements.
For Bangladesh, the reality is practical: if post-2029 certainty is a business necessity, then work must begin well before 2029. Connectivity is becoming a trade advantage. Beyond FTAs, new regional logistics and connectivity initiatives, such as the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)—signal that supply chains may increasingly be designed around speed, resilience, and corridor efficiency as much as tariff schedules. For Bangladesh, this matters because buyer decisions are shaped by the combined package of market access + logistics reliability. If competitors can offer both preferential access and faster corridor connectivity into Europe, Bangladesh’s comparative advantage will increasingly depend on delivering competitiveness on cost, compliance credibility, and logistics performance—not on any single factor alone.
What This Implies for 2026–2029 Window
If EBA continuity extends till November 2029, the 2026–2029 window becomes a critical runway to secure a credible post-EBA pathway— through a negotiated trade framework—while upgrading trade facilitation, standards, and enforcement capacity in line with EU expectations. The transition period should pair a market-access strategy with a reform-and-readiness roadmap that addresses EU priorities: policy stability, a level playing field, and proven implementation capacity. For business, what matters is not just the final policy label but certainty, feasibility, and a clear roadmap that reduces risk and unlocks investment. The urgency is amplified by the region’s shifting trade and connectivity map—where initiatives like IMEC suggest supply chains will be increasingly planned around corridors, speed, and resilience, alongside formal market access.
Bangladesh’s success in the EU market is already evident. The question is whether that performance is converted into a more resilient, diversified, partnership-driven relationship, or whether preference erosion and uncertainty define the next phase.
This window also offers a chance to rebalance EU–Bangladesh trade. While Bangladeshi exports to the EU have grown strongly, EU exports to Bangladesh remain modest, often constrained by high duties and non-tariff barriers—and an abrupt pullback in preferential engagement could weaken longer-term EU commercial interests, including stable supply chains and access to a growing market. A structured pathway, especially an FTA-style framework—could reset the relationship on more mutual terms by improving market access for European firms, tackling regulatory and procedural barriers, and anchoring cooperation on sustainability, labour standards, and responsible business conduct, while supporting Bangladesh’s orderly post-LDC transition.
Sources: EU trade relations with Bangladesh, EU’s GSP+: The lifeline Bangladesh must win before 2029 | The Daily Star, India, EU set to conclude FTA talks on January 27; deal after legal clearances – The Economic Times, Bangladesh, EU finalise PCA text in fifth round of negotiations | The Business Standard, EU envoy calls for policy stability to strengthen Bangladesh-EU ties | The Business Standard, EU-Bangladesh to finalise CPA negotiation soon: Paola Pampaloni | The Business Standard, EU in Bangladesh Facebook Post 25 Jan 2026, EU-Viet Nam, EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement | Access2Markets, The EU-India trade agreement – European Commission, ‘Mother of all deals’: EU and India sign free trade agreement | International trade | The Guardian, Vietnam-EU Upgrade Trade Ties with Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
Nujhat Anjum Silva
Operations | EuroCham Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s Next Big Development Story Should Be Dairy
– Laurent Ponty, Managing Director, Arla Foods Bangladesh
During my visit to Jashore a month ago, I saw children starting their mornings with fried food or no breakfast at all. Whereas, they should have had a glass of milk and eggs. In far too many Bangladeshi households, that simple swap tells a bigger story, about nutrition, food safety, women’s incomes, green growth, and the kind of partnerships we need to build a stronger future. 
Bangladesh has reduced stunting, yet around 28% of children under five are still too short for their age and 10% are wasted. One third of all women have anemia. These numbers are not abstract, they shape cognitive development, school outcomes, and productivity for life. Milk and dairy, part of a balanced diet in national guidelines, remain under‑consumed. The per‑capita milk supply sits well below dairy‑rich nations and short of the intake patterns associated with optimal growth.
Nutrition is infrastructure for human capital. Every taka invested in good nutrition returns many times over in lifetime earnings. UNICEF estimates a $16 return for every $1 invested in nutrition; that should be the headline in every budget discussion. Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics shows diets are diversifying, more fish, meat, and milk products than six years ago, proof that demand can be nudged with availability, affordability, and awareness.
Improving milk supply
Most of Bangladesh’s milk comes from more than a million smallholder farms. Step into one of these homesteads and you quickly see the pressure points. Feed is expensive and inconsistent. Veterinary support is stretched. Clean water access varies from village to village. Cows are hardy, but their productivity is held back by nutrition gaps, heat stress, and limited extension services. Smallholders work hard but often rely on inherited practices rather than structured training.
On top of these constraints, milk collection is fragile. Chilling centers may be kilometers away. Transport is often done on motorbikes or vans under the sun. A delay of even one hour can shift the microbial balance of fresh milk. For farmers, these problems are more than technical, they directly affect income. For consumers, they affect trust.
Fighting non-compliance
Consumers will not drink milk they don’t trust and they shouldn’t. The informal market, which dominates rural and peri-urban sales, still struggles with hygiene lapses and adulteration risks. These aren’t always malicious acts; sometimes it’s simply a lack of awareness or equipment. A cracked bucket, an unwashed cloth strainer, or a contaminated water source can compromise an entire batch.
Milk and kids: the Pushti Kohtha initiative
That is why initiatives like Pushti Kothha matter. Introduced under the Green Dairy Partnership, it translates food safety into simple, relatable, everyday actions. In Jashore, more than 600 students and teachers spent a day learning how to boil milk properly, how to store it safely, and why hygiene matters. These may seem like small lessons, but they ripple outward. When schoolchildren know what safe milk looks like, entire households learn alongside them.
Raising income and reducing emissions by 30% – the Green Dairy Partnership
When farmers receive the right support, practice begins to shift on the ground. The Green Dairy Partnership, bringing together Solidaridad, PRAN Dairy, Arla Foods, SEGES Innovation, IDRN, and the Danish Agriculture & Food Council, is one of the clearest examples of change starting at farm level. Its goal is pragmatic: reduce emissions by 30% and raise incomes for 10,000 farmers, 80% of whom are women.
The pathway is practical. The “Big 5” farming model, feed efficiency, feed balance, animal robustness, manure management, and land use, tackles the basics that dictate daily productivity. Farmers learn how to mix feed for better digestion, how to detect early signs of illness, how to reduce waste, and how to track yields more accurately. A cow that produces one extra liter a day can mean more income, more nutrition at home, and more stability for a family.
A simple glass of milk can be transformative
If Bangladesh elevates dairy within its nutrition agenda, strengthens field-level capacity, builds community-based food safety awareness, and creates a level playing field, the impact will not be abstract. Children in Jashore will start their mornings with strength instead of struggle. Farmers will earn more from the same land they’ve tended for generations. The country will move one step closer to a food system that is healthier, safer, and fairer for all. And it may begin with something as simple, powerful, and transformative as a glass of milk.
Laurent Ponty
Managing Director | Arla Foods Bangladesh
Advocacy with Working Groups
Tax, Trade & Customs Working Group: Budget 2026-27 Advocacy Update
EuroCham Bangladesh’s Tax, Trade & Customs Working Group continues to play a significant role in advancing policy-level advocacy on taxation, trade facilitation, and customs matters affecting European businesses in Bangladesh. Serving as a coordinated platform for member engagement, the Working Group remains focused on surfacing practical challenges faced by the private sector and conveying these concerns to key public institutions, particularly the National Board of Revenue (NBR). A key area of focus in recent months has been the national budget for FY 2026-27. In December 2025, the working group launched a structured budget proposal submission drive among member companies, using a standardized template to ensure consistency and clarity. To date, submissions have been received from Coca-Cola, Arla Foods, RBD Fibers, LafargeHolcim Bangladesh PLC, GEODIS, and Syngenta. Proposals received to date reflect a range of recurring issues affecting European businesses, including income tax administration, VAT compliance and refunds, customs procedures, valuation practices, and trade facilitation bottlenecks. These inputs are intended to inform a consolidated, evidence-based advocacy position. A final call for additional inputs has been issued, with a submission deadline of 8 February 2026, aligned with the post-election budget calendar. Members are kindly encouraged to submit any remaining inputs within this timeframe, as this will be the final round of proposal collection before consolidation and submission to the NBR.
Submitted proposals are being categorised under Income Tax, VAT, and Customs, allowing the Working Group to distinguish between policy-level recommendations and procedural or institutional challenges. This approach is intended to support clearer policy positioning and more effective engagement with the NBR. An internal group meeting held on 27 January 2026 reviewed the consolidated submissions, during which member companies presented key issues along with supporting rationale. Participants underscored the importance of framing recommendations as revenue-positive, highlighting multinational companies’ strong compliance records, and ensuring that EuroCham’s collective voice is communicated clearly and consistently. Looking ahead, the Working Group’s immediate priorities include finalising a consolidated budget proposal letter to the NBR, circulating the draft to members for final feedback, and preparing for submission and follow-up engagement with the NBR and relevant ministries once the election period concludes.
Sirajam Munira Binte Hafiz
Operations | EuroCham Bangladesh
EuroCham Events
EuroCham Business Evening 2026: Delivering for European Businesses
A Platform for EU-Bangladesh Business Engagement
EuroCham Bangladesh hosted the EuroCham Business Evening 2026 on 20 January 2026 at the United Convention Centre, Dhaka, bringing together EuroCham members, EU Ambassadors, representatives of the EU Delegation and Member States, government officials, development partners, and private-sector stakeholders. The event featured three key segments: EuroCham Bangladesh’s first Annual General Meeting (AGM), the inaugural Advisory Council Meeting, and a Networking Cocktail. The evening reaffirmed EuroCham’s commitment to strengthening EU-Bangladesh business cooperation under the theme “Delivering for European Businesses.”
The evening commenced with EuroCham Bangladesh’s first AGM, attended by EuroCham members, the Board, and the EuroCham Secretariat. The AGM reviewed the Chamber’s progress and strategic positioning, provided an overview of activities and working group updates, and outlined key priorities and planned initiatives for 2026.
Setting the Course for 2026: EuroCham’s First AGM
Opening the AGM, EuroCham Chairperson Ms. Nuria Lopez welcomed member companies and outlined the meeting’s role within EuroCham’s annual governance and member engagement cycle. Together with Executive Director Ms. Arick Shama Proma, she presented an overview of EuroCham Bangladesh’s positioning and membership structure, underscoring the Chamber’s role as a unified platform representing European business interests in Bangladesh and announcing the initiation of a membership drive for 2026 aimed at expanding the Chamber’s base to 200 more members to sustain operations and strengthen advocacy impact, while also introducing the Board structure and Operations team.
Strengthening the Chamber: Strategy, Membership, and Financial Oversight
Treasurer Mr. Iqbal Chowdhury presented the Accounts for 2025 for the financial period ending 30 June 2025, and the Budget for 2026, which emphasized the importance of sustainable financing through membership fees and external revenue sources to continue the Chamber’s activities with prestige and quality. The AGM reviewed EuroCham Bangladesh’s strategic goals, reaffirming the Chamber’s commitment to advocating for an improved business ecosystem for European investors in Bangladesh, supporting increased European investment, and promoting Bangladesh’s economic interests in Brussels. Key achievements from 2025 were highlighted, particularly in advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and the establishment of working groups.
Members were also briefed on EuroCham Bangladesh’s engagement with the European Business Organisation Worldwide Network (EBOWN), outlining the value of coordinated advocacy and access to global platforms. Plans were shared to collaborate with the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) on initiatives aimed at promoting Bangladesh as an investment destination. The session also featured Special Remarks from the European Union, delivered by Mr. Abu Syed Muhammad Belal, Advisor, Trade and Economic Affairs, Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh. In his remarks, he reflected on the importance of continued dialogue between the EU and the private sector and underscored the value of platforms such as EuroCham in facilitating constructive engagement on trade, investment, and policy priorities.
From Dialogue to Delivery: Working Groups in Action
Building on the discussion of EuroCham Bangladesh’s engagements, an update on the Chamber’s Working Groups, the primary platform through which EuroCham advances its sector-specific advocacy, was delivered by Ms. Sirajam Munira Binte Hafiz, Junior Operations Specialist and focal point for EuroCham’s Working Groups, covering Tax, Trade & Customs; Sustainability, Circularity, Renewable Energy & Recycling; Logistics; Food & Agro Processing; and Ease of Doing Business. The update highlighted progress to date, ongoing member participation, and the shift from dialogue to action, with several Working Groups moving toward coordinated advocacy, consolidation of member inputs, and planned engagement activities for early 2026 aligned with EuroCham’s advocacy and investment-promotion priorities.
Celebrating Excellence, Leadership, and Impact
Arla Foods Bangladesh Ltd. was awarded Member of the Year 2025 in recognition of consistent and proactive support for EuroCham initiatives, working groups, and communications. The Sustainability, Circularity, Renewable Energy & Recycling Working Group was recognized as the Most Active Working Group 2025 for its leadership and for initiating the development of position papers on issues such as extended producer responsibility (EPR) for plastics, Corporate Power Purchase Agreement (CPPA), water and waste management, and stewardship in the fertilizer sector.
The AGM concluded with an open-floor member engagement session, moderated by Vice-Chairperson Mr. Ziaur Rahman, during which members shared feedback and priorities through live polls and open discussion. Members highlighted the practical challenges they face in operating in Bangladesh and offered recommendations for EuroCham’s future activities and advocacy focus. Key themes included policy advocacy, customs and tax (NBR) issues, LDC graduation, FTA engagement, ease of doing business, corruption, sustainability, renewable energy, textile recycling, and the need to strengthen the overall business environment and ensure a level playing field, alongside suggestions on areas where EuroCham could further enhance its role and impact in 2026.
First Advisory Council: Shaping EuroCham’s Direction with the EU
This AGM was followed by the EuroCham Bangladesh’s very first Advisory Council Meeting, which brought together EuroCham’s leadership and Board members with the EU Delegation and EU Member State Ambassadors and trade officials in Dhaka. It was chaired and led by the EU Ambassador Michael Miller and provided a platform for strategic exchange and guidance from the EU missions on advancing the interests of European businesses in Bangladesh.
Networking Cocktail: An Evening of Exchange and Engagement
The evening concluded with a Networking Cocktail and remarks from EuroCham Chairperson and Ambassador Miller. In her remarks, EuroCham Chairperson Nuria Lopez underscored EuroCham’s advocacy role in Brussels for Bangladesh, including on GSP+ and promoting a possible FTA in the future. She also highlighted EuroCham’s role in advocating for the interests of EU investors in Bangladesh and supporting a more transparent, business-friendly ecosystem, one that enables more European investors to consider Bangladesh’s potential as a manufacturing investment hub.
A Clear Message from Europe: The EU Means Business in Bangladesh
In his special remarks, H.E. Ambassador Michael Miller highlighted the EU’s role as Bangladesh’s steadfast and reliable partner. He underscored the strength of the EU’s commercial relationship with the country and recalled its support for democratic renewal. In order to boost relations, Miller called in particular for a level playing field for EU operators, for policy stability during the coming period, and for the completion of reforms launched by the interim government.
Through the event, EuroCham Bangladesh reaffirmed its commitment to advancing a stronger business ecosystem for European companies in Bangladesh, supporting constructive policy dialogue, and deepening cooperation between the private sector, the Government of Bangladesh, and European partners. In doing so, EuroCham also underscored its role as a two-way bridge—representing Bangladesh’s priorities in Brussels while voicing European business interests in Bangladesh—working to strengthen the country’s business climate and help attract greater European investment.
Najifa Arshad, Sirajam Munira Binte Hafiz
Operations | EuroCham Bangladesh
EuroCham Chairperson Nuria Lopez at the 16th EU-India Summit & Inaugural EU-India Business Forum
EuroCham Chairperson Nuria Lopez attended the 16th EU-India Summit in New Delhi on 27 January 2026, following a formal invitation from the Federation of European Business in India (FEBI), a member of the European Business Organisations Worldwide Network (EBOWN). The Summit, hosted by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and co-chaired by European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, held alongside India’s Republic Day celebrations, and marked a significant step forward in EU-India relations, reaffirming a shared commitment to deepen cooperation across trade, investment, security, mobility, and sustainability. On the margins of the Summit, they addressed the inaugural EU–India Business Forum, calling for ambitious private-sector investment to further strengthen EU–India trade and investment relations. The Forum served as an important platform in which Chairperson Nuria Lopez participated on behalf of EuroCham Bangladesh. Her participation reaffirmed EuroCham’s commitment to deepening economic engagement and cooperation with regional EBOs.
The Summit also concluded negotiations on a landmark EU-India Free Trade Agreement under the “Towards 2030: Joint India-EU Comprehensive Strategic Agenda”. Bringing nearly two decades of talks to a close, the agreement is expected to liberalise trade and unlock significant opportunities for European businesses.
Sources: EuroCham BD, Consilium, AP News, European Commission, India Narrative
Nujhat Anjum Silva
Operations | EuroCham Bangladesh
Updates from Regional EBOs
EuroCham Bangladesh Joins Virtual Dialogue on IMEC and EU–India FTA organised by EBO India
EuroCham Bangladesh participated in a virtual dialogue hosted by the Federation of European Business in India (FEBI) under the European Business Organisation Worldwide Network (EBOWN) on 15 January 2026. Titled “From Corridors to Commerce: Europe’s Next Growth Bridge Between India, the Gulf and South Asia,” the session brought together EU business representatives and institutions from South Asia and the Middle East to discuss two major developments shaping regional trade and connectivity: the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the EU–India Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The opening segment highlighted EBOWN’s role as a global network representing European business interests in third-country markets, and the importance of coordinated engagement with EU institutions and partners.
Session I: India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC): Turning Connectivity into Commerce
The first session examined the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and how it could translate connectivity into tangible trade outcomes. Moderated by Mr. Sanjay Tiwari, Senior Advisor and Spokesperson, FEBI, the session featured Mr. Vivek Sharma, Head – Public Policy and Regulatory Affairs, A.P. Moller–Maersk, and Mr. Vijay Shekhawat, Vice President – Public Affairs, Thyssenkrupp Nucera.
The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) is a transcontinental trade and connectivity initiative linking India, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Europe through an integrated network of ports, railways, highways, and digital infrastructure, aimed at enabling faster, more secure, and sustainable global trade while strengthening economic cooperation and supply chains across the regions. (IMEC)
Speakers outlined the proposed multimodal routes linking India with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Europe, highlighting IMEC’s potential to enhance supply chain resilience, reliability, and route optionality, particularly for high-value, time-sensitive, containerised trade. It was noted that IMEC is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but an important complementary corridor amid ongoing global trade disruptions.
From an industry perspective, the discussion highlighted opportunities for value addition along the corridor, especially in clean energy, green hydrogen, and advanced manufacturing, supported by closer coordination on digital trade facilitation and customs harmonisation. Panelists also noted that IMEC could improve market access and trade predictability for regional and landlocked economies over the medium term.
Session II: EU–India Free Trade Agreement (FTA): Market Access, Key Sectors & Regional Lessons
The second session explored the EU–India Free Trade Agreement (FTA)—then in its final negotiation phase ahead of the 27 January EU–India Summit—and what it could mean for market access, investment decisions, and regulatory cooperation. The session was moderated by Ms. Sonia Prashar, Secretary General, FEBI, and featured Mr. Petros Sourmelis, Minister-Counsellor and Head of Trade and Economic Affairs Section, Delegation of the European Union to India, alongside private-sector perspectives from Dr. Lavneesh Chanana (Asia Pacific Head of Government Affairs, SAP), Mr. Rishidev Sharma (Government Affairs & Public Affairs, Philips), and Mr. Sidharth Prasad (Director – Public Affairs & CSR, Michelin).
The discussion noted that, at the time of the dialogue, negotiators were working toward a political conclusion of the EU–India FTA, with significant progress made, while a few issues—particularly in the automotive and steel sectors, as well as sustainability-related matters including CBAM—remained under discussion. It was also highlighted that, following the conclusion of negotiations, the agreement would need to undergo legal scrubbing, translation into EU languages, signature procedures, and approval by the European Parliament and EU Member States before entering into force. Beyond tariff reductions, the session emphasised the FTA’s importance in delivering greater predictability and clearer operating pathways, with discussions covering digital trust and standards alignment, market access, mutual recognition of standards, decarbonisation, government procurement, and the free flow of innovation and data to support global value chains and the growth of Global Capability Centres (GCCs). The session concluded with regional Q&A, including reflections on possible indirect implications for neighbouring economies and the expected timeline from conclusion to implementation.
During the closing round, EuroCham Bangladesh Chairperson Ms. Nuria Lopez underlined that EBOWN is a strong platform for regional cooperation and emphasized the importance of increasing Europe’s visibility in South Asia through ongoing exchange and joint dialogue among EBOs.
Najifa Arshad
Operations | EuroCham Bangladesh
EuroCham Cambodia
EuroCham Cambodia on landmark India–EU trade deal – Free Trade Agreement (FTA): Chairperson of the Garment & Manufacturing Committee Mr. Emerald Am weighs in-
“The EU-India trade agreement will inevitably increase competition in selected garment and manufacturing categories as India gains improved tariff access to the EU market. For Cambodia, this reinforces the importance of remaining competitive not only on cost, but on reliability, compliance and delivery performance.” Read more…- Cambodia Steps Up its Fight Against Plastic Pollution: The Ministry of Environment in Cambodia unveiled its Plastic Action Roadmap (2024–2040) on 20 January, targeting a 74% reduction in plastic pollution by 2040 and a shift toward a circular economy. The plan introduces upcoming Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks, signalling stricter rules on single-use plastics while opening new opportunities for green innovation and circular value chains. On this matter, Ms. Sarah Kolbenstetter, Vice-Chairperson of the Green Business Committee, EuroCham Cambodia provides opinion, “From a Zero Waste perspective, this roadmap is a sophisticated and necessary step that finally aligns Cambodia with international standards like the EU’s PPWR. However, its success hinges entirely on moving beyond “awareness” into robust enforcement and providing the infrastructure needed for businesses to actually scale reuse and recycling.” Read more…
Nujhat Anjum Silva
Operations | EuroCham Bangladesh
EuroCham Vietnam
Vietnam & EU Upgrade Strategic Partnership: 2026 opens with landmark news for Vietnam as the European Union and Vietnam elevate their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking 35 years of deepening cooperation and a shared commitment to peace, prosperity, and open, rules-based trade. Officially announced on 29 January 2026 by European Council President Antonio Costa and Vietnamese State President Luong Cuong during President Costa’s visit to Vietnam, the move aims to deepen trade and supply-chain cooperation amid shifting global tariffs, with significant geopolitical and business implications for European firms in the region. Read more…- Business Confidence at Multi-Year High: EuroCham Vietnam has officially released the Q4 2025 edition of its Business Confidence Index (BCI), recording its highest level in seven years and marking a decisive shift in European business sentiment. Read more…
Nujhat Anjum Silva
Operations | EuroCham Bangladesh
Members Highlights
LafargeHolcim Bangladesh certified as Top Employer for 2026
LafargeHolcim Bangladesh PLC. (LHB), one of the country’s leading building materials companies, has been officially recognized by the Top Employers Institute, achieving prestigious Top Employer Certification for 2026 in recognition of its excellence in people practices.
The Top Employers Institute is a global authority on HR strategies and certification, dedicated to recognizing excellence in people practices and improving workplace environments worldwide. Its certification program assesses organizations based on the participation in and results of its HR Best Practices Survey. The survey covers 6 HR domains and 20 topics, including People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Wellbeing and Employee Listening. LafargeHolcim Bangladesh has performed strongly across these areas, reinforcing its position as a leading employer in Bangladesh.
This recognition demonstrates LHB’s firm commitment to its employees. The company is dedicated to creating an exceptional work environment where talent is nurtured, diversity is celebrated, employees are engaged and the wellbeing of its people is a top priority.
Iqbal Chowdhury, CEO of LafargeHolcim Bangladesh PLC., said:
“The progress we achieve at LHB is fundamentally driven by the dedication of our people. We believe that true company success goes beyond metrics; it is best reflected in the growth, development and realization of the full potential of every individual. Our promise is to continuously invest in our employees’ wellbeing, fostering a deep sense of pride in being part of a company that is contributing to sustainable construction.”
A K M Atiqur Rahman, Human Resources Director of LafargeHolcim Bangladesh PLC., said:
“We are delighted to receive this recognition, which powerfully affirms our Holcim Spirit culture. Guided by Purpose, People and Performance, we are committed to continuously building an exceptional workplace where our employees feel inspired and fully connected to our mission: building progress for people and the planet. Investing in our talent today is how we scale our mission tomorrow, ensuring a legacy of leadership that spans across borders and industries.”
LHB actively promotes employee advancement through initiatives such as Holcim University and Holcim Career Hub which provides structured training and comprehensive career development pathways. The company also offers a wide range of benefits and strategic development plans, supporting the holistic welfare and growth of its employees. This deliberate approach underlines LHB’s commitment to cultivating an environment where talent thrives, innovation is encouraged, and people can realize their full potential.
The Top Employer recognition further strengthened LHB’s reputation and will help to fulfill LHB’s ambition of becoming an employer of choice in Bangladesh. By offering a dynamic environment for growth, innovation and long-term career development, LHB is attracting top professionals.
GEODIS Bangladesh CSR January 2026
GEODIS Bangladesh is thrilled to announce our first CSR activity for 2026. On the morning of 22nd January, GEODIS Bangladesh team arranged an excursion trip for Life Project for Youth (LP4Y) youths from Vashantek, Dhaka to our Air Freight cargo processing facility warehouse at Tongi, Gazipur.
LP4Y is a French global NGO working exclusively to improve working capabilities of female youths from under privileged areas of Bangladesh.
GEODIS Bangladesh is a proud corporate affiliate of LP4Y and we express our joy and satisfaction to be a part of this noble initiative.
GEODIS Bangladesh a better way to act responsibly towards society.
GEODIS a better way to deliver.
Syngenta Bangladesh Recognized as Innovation Leader of the Year 2025 by FICCI
Syngenta Bangladesh has been recognized as the “Innovation Leader of the Year 2025” by the Foreign Investors’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) under its Sustainability & Innovation Awards, which celebrate excellence in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices among member organizations.
The award honors Syngenta Bangladesh’s flagship sustainability initiative, “GoGrow: Enriching the Livelihood of Coastal Belt Farmers,” for its contribution to promoting climate-resilient agriculture and strengthening the livelihoods of farming communities in the country’s southern coastal belt.
Syngenta Bangladesh Managing Director Hedayet Ullah and Director, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Mohammed Shahidul Islam received the “Innovation Leader of the Year 2025” award from FICCI for the GoGrow initiative. During the event, Syngenta Bangladesh’s Country Leadership Team (CLT) and Regional Leadership Team, AMEA Syngenta were also present.
The GoGrow initiative, implemented in Shyamnagar, Satkhira, addresses the challenges faced by smallholder farmers living in areas affected by rising salinity and erratic weather. By introducing saline-tolerant crop varieties, rainwater harvesting, and regenerative agricultural practices, the project has helped farmers achieve better yields, improve household incomes, and rebuild sustainable livelihoods of farming community. Through community-led training, knowledge sharing, and partnerships with government and research institutions, GoGrow has emerged as a model of inclusive, climate-smart agriculture turning environmental challenges into opportunities for growth and resilience.
According to Syngenta Bangladesh, this recognition reaffirms the company’s commitment to aligning innovation with sustainability. As a leading science-based agtech organization, Syngenta Bangladesh continues to place farmers at the heart of its mission, where sustainability remains the cornerstone of every innovation.
Syngenta Opens Second Farmer School in Rajshahi
Syngenta Bangladesh has inaugurated its second Farmer School at Nimpara Union, Charghat, Rajshahi on December 2025 in collaboration with local government to help marginal farmers learn better farming methods and promote sustainable farming.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Md.Rahatul Karim Mizan, Assistant Commissoner (Land) of Charghat, Rajshahi, as Chief Guest, while Md. Mizanur Rahman, Chairman of Nimpara Union Parishad, Charghat, presided over the event as Chairperson. Mr. Hedayet Ullah, Managing Director of Syngenta Bangladesh Limited, attended the program as special guest. Mohammed Shahidul Islam, Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Syngenta Bangladesh, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the vision and importance of the Farmer School initiative.
The Syngenta Farmer School is an integrated learning and awareness hub designed to empower farmers with modern knowledge and skills with the explicit goal of developing the total ecosystem of farming. This initiative goes beyond traditional training to create a holistic support system for rural communities.
Syngenta’s first Farmer School at Sardah Union, Charghat, launched earlier in collaboration with the local government in 2023, has already benefited over 1,500 farmers across 14 villages, improving yields and supporting increased household income. Building on this success, the new Farmer School in Nimpara Union aims to further strengthen the local farming ecosystem and enhance knowledge-sharing among farmers.
DBL Group’s Matin Spinning Mills PLC Honored with Silver Award at 12th ICSB National Award 2024
Dhaka, Bangladesh – Matin Spinning Mills PLC, a key subsidiary of DBL Group, has been awarded the Silver Award in the Textiles & RMG category at the 12th ICSB National Award 2024 for Corporate Governance Excellence. The recognition was formally presented during a ceremony held on December 15, 2025, in Dhaka, where DBL Group Directors Mr. Awabin Araf and Mr. Ahnaf Abed received the award on behalf of the organization.
This achievement underscores Matin Spinning Mills’ sustained commitment to operational integrity and long-term stakeholder value. By consistently aligning with international best practices, the company reinforces its position as a leader in the Bangladesh textile sector – a role that resonates strongly with the European business community’s focus on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards.
This latest recognition builds on a distinguished legacy of excellence, following a series of multiple Gold and Silver accolades from the ICSB National Awards earned between 2016 and 2023.
DBL Group continues to set benchmarks for ethical business practices and governance in Bangladesh’s industrial sector, reinforcing its dedication to driving sustainable growth and excellence across all operations.
“This recognition reflects our unwavering dedication to the highest levels of accountability and transparency,” stated the DBL Group management. “We remain committed to setting benchmarks for excellence within the textile and RMG industry.”
Driving Gender Inclusion and Future Leadership: CCI Bangladesh Launches WiNG
Driving Gender Inclusion and Future Leadership: CCI Bangladesh Launches WiNG
Advancing gender inclusion and shaping future leadership remain core priorities for CCI Bangladesh. Diversity is not merely a value; it serves as a catalyst for innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth. In alignment with CCI’s commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace, WING (Women in Next Generation) has been launched as a pioneering initiative designed to empower women and strengthen the diverse talent pipeline across critical business functions.
The launch of WING, in partnership with the Enroute Foundation, represents a significant milestone for CCI Bangladesh. Inspired by global best practices, the program addresses one of the pressing challenges in the corporate landscape: the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles and operational functions such as Sales, Supply Chain, and Finance. These areas have historically seen limited female participation, often due to systemic barriers including lack of exposure, mentorship, and structured career pathways.
WING is positioned as more than a program; it is a strategic movement. The initiative began with the Sales Traineeship Program for Women, targeting female graduates from educational institutions. This program provides hands-on experience, mentorship, and career exposure in sales, a domain where female representation remains significantly low. Participants gain practical knowledge, build confidence, and develop networks that prepare them for future leadership roles. Beyond operational training, WING tackles structural challenges by creating pathways for internships, skill-building, and professional guidance. Research indicates that women often face limited access to these opportunities, resulting in fewer managerial positions. WING bridges these gaps by focusing on equitable access, the initiative ensures that women not only enter the workforce but thrive within it. Expansion plans include extending the initiative to departments such as Supply Chain and other enabling functions, thereby building a truly inclusive talent pipeline.
Impact Objectives of WING include:
- Empowering women through meaningful employment opportunities and career pathways
- Enhancing skill readiness and marketability for future roles
- Contributing to inclusive community development
- Strengthening the future leadership pipeline with diverse perspectives and equal opportunities
WING also serves as a communication platform, amplifying CCI’s commitment to gender inclusion and sustainability. Empowering women is framed not only as a social responsibility but also as a business imperative that drives innovation and long-term success. The initiative helps shape the leaders of tomorrow and sets a benchmark for inclusive growth in the business landscape.
Through WiNG, CCI Bangladesh is taking an ambitious step toward creating a workplace where diversity thrives and opportunities are equitable, a promise to make our organization more women-friendly and contribute meaningfully to the broader goal of gender equality in business.
Rahman’s Chambers: Recent Highlights and Achievements
Rahman’s Chambers stands as a pillar of legal excellence in Bangladesh, blending a century-long family heritage in law with the dynamism of a modern, full-service Chambers established in 2006. Consistently recognized for market-leading expertise by prestigious directories like Chambers and Partners, the Chambers offers a unique value proposition for domestic and international clients. With five offices nationwide and nine specialized departments, it provides comprehensive legal services, combining deep local insight with global service standards. The Chambers has recently achieved significant milestones in complex dispute resolution, renewable energy projects, and international collaborations.
Key Recognitions and Awards
We are delighted to announce that our Head of Chambers, Barrister Mohammed Forrukh Rahman, has been selected to become a member of the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) List of Rising Arbitrators.
This prestigious appointment, confirmed by the SIAC Registrar on 16 January 2026, acknowledges Mr. Rahman’s expertise and experience in the field of arbitration. As a member of this list, he will now be considered for appointments in international arbitration that are appropriate for his level of experience. We look forward to his continued contributions to the international dispute resolution community.
Recent Work Highlights
M&A, liquidation, insolvency & Corporate Litigations
Rahman’s Chambers has recently acted for SAPL Industries Private Limited in connection with the voluntary winding up and closure of its Bangladesh subsidiary, SAPL Industries (BD) Private Limited. Our team provided comprehensive legal and administrative services throughout the winding-up process, including managing all regulatory compliance before the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms (RJSC). This involved obtaining permission from the Company Court to convene the Annual General Meeting (AGM) after the statutory deadline had lapsed, arranging the mandatory gazette publication of notices of the Company and the liquidator, and drafting, reviewing, and processing all essential statutory documents—such as the Declaration of Solvency in affidavit form, Schedule X, and resolutions of the Board of Directors and members. We also coordinated closely with the client to ensure proper execution of documents by directors residing outside Bangladesh. In parallel, we oversaw the preparation and audit of the Company’s financial statements for multiple fiscal periods to ensure full statutory compliance prior to closure. Despite delays arising from periods of unrest in Bangladesh and extended scrutiny by the RJSC, we have successfully completed the submission of all closing documents and secured final approval for the winding up.
Trade and Business Statistics: Bangladesh Bank Data
