Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine – Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine E-Publishing

Bangladesh: Asia’s Next Trade Powerhouse

Bangladesh is quietly rewriting its economic story. Once known primarily for its ready-made garments, the country is now emerging as a diversified trade hub in Asia. Its export basket is expanding—and so is its global relevance. Earnings from exports have always been the nation’s driving force, and the last fiscal year was no different. Apparels played a dominant role, earning $48 billion, while other sectors also expanded their global reach. “Bangladesh’s export basket did not widen overnight—it was hard-won,” said Moynul Islam, president of the Bangladesh Ceramic Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BCMEA). “And now Bangladesh is home to a vibrant young population—more active and intelligent than their predecessors,” said Islam, who also serves as vice chairman of Monno Group. “From ceramics to garments, pharmaceuticals to electronics, this generational shift is redefining the business landscape and accelerating new export frontiers, positioning Bangladesh as one of Asia’s most promising investment and trade destinations,” he added. RMG : The Backbone of Bangladesh’s Trade Garments remain Bangladesh’s strongest export pillar, contributing over $39 billion in FY2024-25 knitwear and woven categories combined. Knitwear alone earned $21.1 billion, while woven garments brought in $18.1 billion, according to data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). The sector’s strength lies in its scale and adaptability. Bangladesh retained its position as the world’s second-largest apparel exporter in 2024, as confirmed by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). Exports to non-traditional markets are rising, and shipments to the USA grew by 29 percent between January and April 2025. Yet, the industry faces headwinds. Rising production costs, energy inefficiencies, and compliance pressures are squeezing margins. Extortion in industrial belts and loan defaults among top exporters have also raised concerns, as noted by Bangladesh Bank. To stay competitive, the sector is embracing green manufacturing and automation. Over 260 factories are now LEED-certified, and green factories enjoy tax incentives and higher buyer preference. With continued investment in sustainability and worker welfare, RMG is poised to remain Bangladesh’s trade anchor. Home Textile: The Quiet Climber Once a niche category, home textiles have become Bangladesh’s second-largest textile export segment. The sector continued growing despite global challenges, earning $871 million in the last fiscal year. The rise of wellness living and interior-focused consumption has boosted demand for bed linens, curtains, and towels. Bangladesh’s manufacturers are responding with eco-friendly fabrics and design-led collections. However, the sector remains vulnerable to tariff uncertainties, especially in the US market. To mitigate this, the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) recommends diversifying export destinations and investing in design innovation. With stable growth and rising global demand for sustainable home goods, Bangladesh’s home textile sector is quietly climbing the ranks. Leather and Leathergoods: A Legacy in Transition Bangladesh’s leather sector has shown resilient performance, earning over $1 billion annually since FY2018-19. Once hailed as the country’s second-largest export earner, the sector has struggled with environmental compliance and infrastructure bottlenecks. Shipments of leather and leathergoods have slowed due to delays in setting up the Central Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) in Savar, said Arifur Rahman Chowdhury, general manager of ABC Footwear Industries Ltd, a concern of Abedin Group. “Without the CETP, many tanneries fail to meet global environmental standards, particularly the Leather Working Group (LWG) certification required by most European buyers,” he noted. Chowdhury added that the CETP’s completion would resolve nearly 80% of the sector’s challenges. Still, there is hope. According to the Leather Goods and Footwear Manufacturers & Exporters Association of Bangladesh (LFMEAB), 80 percent of exports go to just 10 countries—highlighting the potential for market expansion. With renewed focus on compliance and branding, leather could reclaim its place as a premium export. Frozen and Live Fish: The Blue Economy Awakens Bangladesh’s quiet revolution in aquaculture has made it a regional leader in sustainable fish farming. The country’s fisheries sector earned around half a billion US dollars in the last fiscal year, reflecting steady demand for shrimp, pangasius, and tilapia. Bangladesh Bank and the Ministry of Fisheries are working on improving traceability and certification standards. Yet, export volumes remain modest due to quality inconsistencies and limited cold-chain infrastructure. With rising global interest in clean protein and sustainable seafood, Bangladesh’s fish exports could scale rapidly—if supported by investment in logistics and branding. Empowering smallholder farmers with training, digital tools, and access to finance could unlock further growth. Strengthening community-based hatcheries and eco-friendly practices would ensure sustainability, while coordinated branding could position Bangladesh as a trusted global seafood supplier. Agricultural Commodities: A Sleeping Giant Agricultural exports brought in just over $1 billion in FY2024-25, led by fruits, vegetables, and processed foods. Mangoes, in particular, saw a rebound thanks to improved quality and packaging. However, the sector suffers from fragmented supply chains and slow policy support. Export growth has been inconsistent, and agricultural products face steep competition from regional players. The Ministry of Agriculture and EPB are now focusing on diaspora-driven demand and organic certification. Digital platforms for farm-to-market linkages, real-time price data, and quality monitoring could reduce inefficiencies and empower growers. Strategic partnerships with private investors and international buyers would further enhance competitiveness, ensuring that Bangladesh’s produce earns recognition in premium global markets and that agri-exports become a major growth engine. Pharmaceuticals: The Next Frontier Bangladesh now exports medicines to more than 160 countries after meeting 98 percent of its domestic demand, including shipments to highly regulated markets in Europe and North America. Pharmaceutical exports have nearly doubled in recent years to about $215 million, driven by WHO-compliant manufacturing facilities and competitively priced generic formulations. According to Md Zakir Hossain, secretary general of the Bangladesh Association of Pharmaceutical Industries (BAPI), exports could have easily surpassed the one-billion-dollar mark if not for a series of global setbacks, including the Covid-19 pandemic, the Ukraine–Russia war, and the ongoing devaluation of the Taka against

10th International Conference on Building Resilience ongoing in Dhaka

The 10th International Conference on Building Resilience (ICBR) started in Dhaka on December 4, bringing global experts together to address cascading and compound risks posed by climate change, humanitarian crises and disasters. The three-day event is hosted by BRAC University’s Cell for Adaptation, Resilience, Security, and Humanitarian Assistance (CARSHA) alongside its Department of Architecture under the School of Architecture and Design. Established in 2008, the ICBR series has become a globally recognised platform for disaster resilience and risk reduction, attracting academics, practitioners and policymakers from diverse disciplines. Previous editions have been held in Australia, Indonesia, New Zealand, Portugal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the UK and the USA, underscoring the conference’s international reach and reputation. The Dhaka conference will focus on the theme “Addressing Cascading and Compound Risks of Climate Change, Humanitarian Crises and Disasters.” Organisers say the theme reflects the growing complexity of global hazards, where climatic shifts, natural disasters, conflicts, technological failures and environmental degradation increasingly overlap. They warn that societies must now prepare for multiple disasters occurring simultaneously, as well as the chain reactions triggered by single events. The conference aims to provide a platform for experts, researchers, academics, practitioners and decision-makers to share knowledge and strategies for reducing these risks in a global context. Key areas of discussion included anticipatory approaches to disaster risk reduction, climate financing and loss-damage calculation, forced displacement and its impacts, and challenges in rehabilitation, relocation and emergency accommodation. Sessions also explored innovation in climate change adaptation, building financial resilience, humanitarian operations, peace and development, and community participation in addressing complex risks. Other topics included ecosystem-based adaptation, the nexus of humanitarian crises and climate change impacts, the future of global humanitarian operations, and resilient built environment design. The organisers have set out a detailed timeline for participation. Abstract and poster submissions opened on June 1 of 2024, with the final deadline on August 1 of 2025. Notifications of acceptance was issued on August 22 of 2025, followed by revised submissions due on September 26 of 2025. Final selections were confirmed on October 24 of 2025, while early bird registration closed on October 31 the same year. The conference itself will run from December 4–6 at BRAC University’s campus on Bir Uttam Rafiqul Islam Avenue in Dhaka. Organisers emphasised that the event is designed to encourage cross-sectoral collaboration, bringing together voices from academia, government, industry and humanitarian organisations. They argue that such collaboration is essential to tackle the escalating risks posed by climate change and disasters, which in creasingly cut across national boundaries and sectors. The Dhaka edition is expected to highlight Bangladesh’s role as a frontline nation in climate resilience, given its vulnerability to rising sea levels, cyclones and flooding. By hosting the 10th ICBR, BRAC University aims to position itself as a hub for global dialogue on resilience and adaptation. The conference also showcased the work of CARSHA, which focuses on adaptation, resilience, security and humanitarian assistance in the context of climate change and disasters. Organisers say the event will not only disseminate research but also foster practical solutions that can be applied in vulnerable regions worldwide. With participation from international partners and knowledge networks, the Dhaka conference is expected to strengthen global cooperation on disaster resilience. As the countdown begins, the 10th ICBR is being framed as a milestone event in the global effort to confront cascading and compound risks. At a time when climate change and humanitarian crises are converging, the Dhaka conference seeks to chart a path towards resilience and preparedness. Written by Nibir Ayaan

10th International Conference on Building Resilience ongoing in Dhaka

Spotlights

Dhaka Makers Presented ‘Crafted by Makers’ Four-Day Workshop Series 2025

Dhaka Makers presented ‘Crafted by Makers’ – a four-day workshop series held from November 13 to November 16, 2025, at Shala Neighbourhood Art Space, Aloki. A total of 14 creative workshops were hosted that celebrated art, craft, and design in all their forms. Each day of the workshop series featured engaging and distinctive session led by skilled artisans for participants. The four-day event hosted various sessions: terracotta jewelry workshop, robotics workshop, candle-making workshop, miniature model-making workshop, origami workshop, and many more. The curated sessions aimed to showcase Bangladesh’s vibrant arts and craft culture while promoting learning, play, and mindful creation for all ages, especially, children and teenagers. Every instructor paced the activities carefully so participants could follow along comfortably and absorb the making process. There were also some sessions designed for older children and adults such as the ‘Hand-Knotting Tapestry with Boho’, facilitated by Nazneen

Glimpses from 75-95

Titled “Phire Dekha/Re See,” the ongoing exhibition at the capital’s Kalakendra is comprised of the most heavyweight line-up of artists in a single group show in this gallery’s journey so far. Although a young gallery run by the veteran Wakilur Rahman, Kalakendra has already cemented its place as a hub for regular exhibition-goers of Dhaka, and its latest exhibition is another beautiful stroke in its canvas. Kazi Rakib, Deepa Haq, Dhali Al Mamoon, Dilara Begum Jolly, Nisar Hossain, and Shishir Bhattacharjee, Saidul Haque Juise, Fareha Zeba, Ratan Mojumdar, Habibur Rahman, Ruhul Amin Kajol, Lala Rukh Selim, Towfiqur Rahman, and Wakilur Rahman—if you are an enthusiast of the Bangladeshi art scene, you are at least familiar with a few of these names from this stellar list of Bangladeshi artists. These names, whether as a promising back-in-the-day or established artist, as a respected teacher for generations of art students, or as a curator, are all notable in their own ways in a detailed history of the Bangladeshi art scene. Growing up in a country where there is a mass tendency of collective amnesia towards the importance of archives and still no organized/proper practice of museum and gallery culture, if you have ever wondered what the art of some notable names looked like when they were at your and your Charukola friends’ age, “Phire Dekha” provides you a glimpse. The show gathers these fourteen artists, whose works once characterized the visual rhythm of postwar Bangladesh. The display, which runs from 1975 to 1995—an era marked by instability, transformation, and fragile hope—does not attempt to rebuild history but rather to reflect on it through the lens of art. Those two decades were more than just years on a timeline; they were a line of reckoning. Bangladesh, yet learning the lexicon of its freedom, was seeing seismic worldwide shifts—the demise of socialism, the growth of neoliberal dreams, and the gradual disintegration of collective idealism. These factors undoubtedly influenced how artists thought, created, and responded to their surroundings. The show makes no conclusive statements about that age; rather, it creates a contemplative space between history and present, memory and method, inviting visitors to rediscover what art previously possessed and what it continues to disclose. “Re See” is curated without the weight of theory or curatorial rigor, instead assembling pieces of real experience rather than a predefined theme. All of the participating artists were young art students in the years following the Liberation War. Some were members of collectives such as Dhaka Painters or the Somoy Group, while others forged their own paths of discovery. Their works together provide a mosaic of artistic and emotional progress, a portrait of a generation that used color, form, and gesture to express its times. The exhibition features paintings, sculptures, prints, sketches, and mixed-media pieces, the majority of which are from the artists’ personal archives. The mix of mediums—etchings, acrylics, watercolor, and assemblage—reflects the restless search for words that marked Bangladeshi art throughout those decades. “We seldom get to see the works that shaped our contemporary practice,” he observed. “Between 1970 and 1990, the political and cultural landscapes of our country changed dramatically, and those changes inevitably entered art. The young artists of that period absorbed both global and local influences, reinterpreting them through their own materials, symbols, and languages. Many have since matured into leading figures, guiding the next generations of creators,” said art historian and critic Professor Abul Mansur. These words capture the essence of “Re See”; it is not nostalgia but an act of rediscovery, an artistic archaeology of thought and feeling. The exhibition runs daily from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. until November 15 at Kalakendra. Written by Shahbaz Nahian

Bangladesh’s Largest Travel Expo Begins Thursday

The 13th edition of the Biman Bangladesh Travel & Tourism Fair (BTTF) 2025 opened Thursday morning at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center (BCFCC) in Dhaka, marking the return of the country’s largest international tourism expo. Organised by the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB), the three-day event runs from October 30 to November 1 and is expected to draw tens of thousands of visitors, including over 2,000 trade professionals. The fair is open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with an entry fee of Tk 50 per person. Students, freedom fighters, and July war heroes are granted free entry, ensuring inclusive access to the event. This year’s fair features participation from more than 120 local and international organisations, showcasing their products and services through around 220 stalls and 20 pavilions. Among the international participants are national tourism boards, airlines, tour operators, hotels, resorts, travel agencies, financial institutions, and healthcare providers. Twenty international hospitals are promoting medical and wellness tourism, reflecting the growing interest in cross-border healthcare travel. Biman Bangladesh Airlines is the title sponsor of BTTF 2025, joined by IHG Hotels & Resorts as the gold partner and bKash as the payment partner, with cashback offers available for visitors purchasing entry tickets via bKash. Spanning 60,000 square feet, the exhibition is divided into four themed halls—Celebrity, Carnival, Harmony, and Milky Way—designed to facilitate targeted engagement between exhibitors and attendees. The layout includes dedicated spaces for B2B sessions, seminars, country presentations, cultural performances, and documentary screenings on Bangladesh’s tourist attractions, offering a comprehensive platform for both commercial exchange and public interaction. The opening ceremony on Thursday was presided over by Md. Rafeuzzaman, president of TOAB, and formally inaugurated by Lutfe Siddiqi, special envoy to the chief adviser on international affairs, who served as chief guest. Md. Taslim Amin Shovon, director (trade & fair) at TOAB, delivered the welcome address, while Mohammad Yunus, director (media & publications), conducted the programme. Friday’s programme includes a B2B networking session, multiple seminars, and a roundtable discussion, while Saturday will feature a grand raffle draw and the closing ceremony. Daily cultural shows and sideline events are expected to enhance visitor engagement. TOAB, which has been organising BTTF annually since 2007, aims to position Bangladesh as a competitive player in the global tourism market. With 751 active members, the association regularly participates in international fairs such as ITB Berlin, WTM London, and FITUR Madrid, and collaborates with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Bangladesh Tourism Board, and Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation. According to organisers, BTTF 2025 is designed to promote both inbound and outbound tourism, with a special focus on niche segments including culinary, cultural, leisure, cruise, and adventure travel. Business and corporate travel also feature prominently, alongside medical tourism, which has seen increased demand in recent years. Distinguished guests at the inauguration included Saima Shahin Sultana, chairman of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation; Naila Ahmed, joint secretary (tourism-1 branch) of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism; Dr. Md. Shafiqur Rahman, managing director and CEO of Biman Bangladesh Airlines; Md. Mainul Hasan, additional IGP of Bangladesh Tourist Police, and Nuzhat Yasmin, CEO of Bangladesh Tourism Board, alongside TOAB advisors, directors, and steering committee members. Written by Nibir Ayaan

CUET to Host 3rd International Conference on Green Architecture

The Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET) will host the third International Conference on Green Architecture (ICGrA 2025) from December 4-5 this year, bringing together more than 100 scholars and thousands of professionals to explore sustainable design and community-scale environmental responsibility. The conference will be jointly organised by the Green Architecture Cell (GrACe) and the Department of Architecture (DoA) of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) and Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET). Themed “Healthy Buildings on the Path to nearly Zero Emission Communities (neZECom),” the event will examine the relationship between building-level well-being and broader sustainability goals. The Bengali interpretation of neZECom, “Reduce self-need,” reflects the conference’s ethos: a low-emission future begins with mindful consumption and responsible environmental behaviour. Building on the success of its earlier editions in 2017 and 2018, ICGrA 2025 continues a legacy of fostering awareness and collaboration on sustainability in the built environment. The conference venue, CUET’s Department of Architecture, lies between the Bay of Bengal and the Chittagong Hill Tracts, offering a scenic setting for dialogue and discovery. The conference is supported by a wide network of collaborators, including the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB), Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP), the ZEMCH Network at the University of Melbourne, and architecture departments from DUET, KUET, RUET, KU, SUST, MIST, and Dhaka University, alongside institutional partners such as the Bangladesh House Building Finance Corporation (BHBFC) and alumni associations from BUET and CUET. Prof. Dr. Md Ashikur Rahman Joarder of BUET is chairing the ICGrA 2025 and Prof. Dr. Sajal Chowdhury of CUET is the conference secretary. The 2025 edition will feature keynote addresses, paper and poster presentations, exhibitions, cultural events, and the publication of proceedings. Selected papers will be considered for publication in indexed journals. Five parallel workshops will be organised on separate topics as part of the third ICGrA 2025. Each workshop will be led by distinguished faculty members from BUET and CUET, offering participants the opportunity to engage directly with experts in the field. Workshop Topics and Leaders • Thermal Comfort Led by: Prof. Dr. Khandakar Sabbir Ahmed, BUET Focus: This workshop will delve into strategies for achieving optimal thermal conditions in buildings, addressing passive cooling, material selection, and climate-responsive design to enhance occupant comfort and energy efficiency. • Acoustics Led by: Prof. Dr. S. M. Najmul Imam, BUET Focus: Participants will explore acoustic performance in architectural spaces, including noise control, sound insulation, and design techniques for creating healthy auditory environments in residential and public buildings. • Daylighting Led by: Prof. Dr. Md. Ashikur Rahman Joarder, BUET Focus: This session will examine the role of natural light in building design, covering daylight simulation, visual comfort, energy savings, and integration of daylighting strategies into architectural planning. • Environmental Experience Design (EXD) Led by: Prof. Dr. Sajal Chowdhury, CUET Focus: The workshop will introduce participants to user-centred environmental design, focusing on sensory experience, spatial perception, and psychological well-being in built environments. • Computational Building Information Modeling (BIM) Led by: Md Mizanur Rahman of BUET Registration Details Date: December 5, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Venue: CUET, Chattogram, Bangladesh Early Bird Registration (per topic): Tk 5,000 (by October 31, 2025) Regular Registration (per topic): Tk 7,000 (by November 15, 2025) Seats are limited, and participants must complete a separate registration for each workshop they wish to attend. Individual registration is allowed for any of the four topics. Awards will be presented for Best Paper, Best Presentation, and Best Poster. Topics for submission span health and well-being, green buildings, zero energy and emissions, community and lifestyle, user-centred design, climate resilience, decarbonisation, circularity, life cycle assessment, energy efficiency, vernacular architecture, retrofitting, conservation, innovation, policy, materials, methods, water and waste management, safety, and pedagogy. Organisers say ICGrA 2025 aims to drive practical action, inform policy, and strengthen academic and professional collaboration across disciplines. Written by Nibir Ayaan

Business Insights

Three-day Leathertech Bangladesh 2025 begins in Dhaka

Leathertech Bangladesh 2025, an international trade show, began in Dhaka on December 4, showcasing raw materials, machinery, chemicals, accessories and components for the leather sector alongside finished leather, travel goods and both leather and non-leather footwear. More than 200 local and foreign exhibitors are taking part in the event, which occupies 15,000 square metres at the International Convention City Bashundhara in the capital. The expo is being organised by ASK Trade & Exhibitions Pvt Limited with the support of the Leathergoods and Footwear Manufacturers & Exporters Association of Bangladesh (LFMEAB). Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, executive chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), inaugurated the expo as chief guest, while Syed Nasim Manzur, president of LFMEAB, attended as special guest. Leaders of industry associations from Bangladesh, China, India and Pakistan were also present, reflecting the regional significance of the event. Leathertech Bangladesh began its journey 11 years ago as a technology platform created to bring innovations in footwear, travel goods and allied manufacturing from across the world closer to local producers. Over the years, it has become the most preferred platform for exploring and expanding opportunities in Bangladesh’s leather, footwear and travel

AkijBashir Group has entered into a strategic partnership with the Infrastructure Development Company Limited (IDCOL)

In a major step toward sustainable industrial growth, AkijBashir Group has entered into a strategic partnership with the Infrastructure Development Company Limited (IDCOL) to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy across its operations. The collaboration, formalized at an event held at Sheraton Dhaka, marks a significant milestone in advancing green industrial practices in Bangladesh. AkijBashir Group has been funding several sustainability projects in the last couple of years through its Energy Efficiency and Rooftop Solar financing programs funded by IDCOL. These projects have enabled the deployment of industrial rooftop solar capacity of more than 90MWp, of which over 60MWp has been deployed and has become one of the largest solar portfolios in the private sector in Bangladesh. One of the highlights of the joint venture is a pioneer project of Janata Jute Mills Ltd. in Boalmari, Faridpur, that will become the first in the world to be a fully operational jute mill using renewable energy by the first quarter of 2026. In the long-term sustainability, the Group targets to produce a renewable energy of 1,000 MWh every day by 2027. During the event, AkijBashir Group Managing Director, Mr. Taslim Md. Khan, and IDCOL Executive Director and CEO, Mr. Alamgir Morshed, emphasized the role of collaboration in the development of the future of the low-carbon industry. AkijBashir Group is determined to be 100% renewable in all its manufacturing plants by the year 2030, which is in line with its vision Beyond Tomorrow- impetus on sustainability, innovation, and industrial perfection.

World Investor Week rings the bell on financial fraud awareness

A global initiative to promote investor education and protection is underway as World Investor Week 2025 runs from October 6 to 12, led by the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO). Now in its latest edition, the campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of financial literacy, responsible investing, and the protection of investors in an increasingly digital and complex financial landscape. The global campaign features participation from securities regulators, exchanges, financial organisations, and educators across six continents, with events tailored to national and regional contexts. Activities include public awareness drives, webinars, training sessions, and outreach campaigns designed to help investors make informed decisions and guard against fraud. A flagship feature of the campaign is the “Ring the Bell for Financial Literacy” initiative, held in collaboration with the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE). Stock exchanges around the world symbolically “ring the bell” to demonstrate their commitment to investor education and market transparency. Focus on Fraud, Digital Threats, and Investor Awareness This year’s programme includes a strong emphasis on the emerging threat of digital fraud, particularly those involving artificial intelligence and online scams. On October 7, U.S. regulators including the National Futures Association (NFA), FINRA, and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) hosted a webinar titled “Deconstructing to Disrupt Fraud”, which was a two-part event featuring Dr. Arda Akartuna. The session explored how AI technologies are being weaponised by fraudsters, and how regulators and investors can respond with vigilance and education. In Indonesia, the national financial regulator Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (OJK) is hosting a regional webinar on October 9 titled “Empowering Investors: Invest Wisely and Stay Safe from Fraud and Scams.” The event features speakers from IOSCO’s Committee on Retail Investors and will discuss practical strategies to improve retail investor protection. Investor education for older adults is also a priority in this year’s campaign. In the United States, the CFTC, FBI, and AARP have partnered on outreach aimed at Americans aged 50 and older, focusing on helping them identify and avoid scams. The organisers report that over 250 participants registered for this dedicated session. Global Backing and Institutional Support World Investor Week is supported by a wide range of international partners, including: The World Bank OECD G20 Sustainable Stock Exchanges (SSE) Initiative International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Foundation European Fund and Asset Management Association (EFAMA) These partnerships reinforce IOSCO’s broader mission to promote not only awareness, but also long-term behavioural change among investors and institutions globally. As the global standard-setter for securities regulation, IOSCO collaborates closely with the Financial Stability Board (FSB) and the G20 to ensure that investor protection remains a key pillar of global financial integrity and stability. Building Resilience in a Complex Investment Landscape With financial markets rapidly evolving due to digitisation, AI technologies, and cross-border investment platforms, retail investors are exposed to new complexities and risks. World Investor Week serves as a timely reminder of the need for robust financial education, stronger regulatory safeguards, and proactive public engagement. As the campaign continues through October 12, organisers hope to empower individuals with the knowledge to navigate risks, detect fraud, and contribute to more resilient financial markets across all levels of society. Written By Nibir Ayaan

Bangladeshi Hotels, Resorts Win Big at South Asian Travel Awards 2025

Bangladesh’s hospitality sector received a resounding endorsement on the international stage as several leading local hotels, resorts, and tour operators were honoured at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2025, held at the Cinnamon Grand in Colombo. The glittering ceremony, widely regarded as one of the region’s most prestigious events in the travel and tourism calendar, brought together top-tier organisations from Sri Lanka, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. A total of 53 Gold Awards and 113 Silver Awards were presented across a range of categories, recognising excellence in service, innovation, and guest experience. Bangladeshi winners spanned multiple categories, reflecting the country’s growing reputation as a destination of choice for regional and international travellers. Award Winners from Bangladesh Baywatch: South Asia’s Best New Hotel and South Asia’s Leading Beach Resort HANSA – A Premium Residence: Leading Designer Hotel/Resort Holiday Inn Dhaka City Centre: Leading City Hotel Intercontinental Dhaka: Leading Luxury Hotel Momo Inn: Leading Family Hotel & Resort and Leading Convention Center Award Platinum Grand: Leading Boutique Hotel Platinum Residence: Leading City Hotel and Leading Budget Hotel Radisson Blu Chattogram Bay View: Best Eco-Friendly Hotel Radisson Blu Dhaka: Leading Airport Hotel and Leading Meeting & Events Sayeman Beach Resort: Leading Wedding Hotel/Resort Sayeman Heritage: Leading Heritage Hotel/Resort The Palace Luxury Resort: Leading Palace Hotel The Peninsula Chittagong: Best CSR Program, Leading F&B Hotel, and Leading Business Hotel The Westin Dhaka: Leading Wellness and Spa Hotel/Resort Bangladesh Tour Group (BTG): South Asia’s Leading Inbound Travel Agent and Best Promotion Campaign in South Asia Travel Classic (Pvt.) Limited: Leading Travel Agent – Outbound Winning awards in different categories was no easy feat. Each submission underwent a rigorous selection and evaluation process. The SATA 2025 Awards were presented to organisations that embody excellence in service delivery, innovation, sustainability, leadership, and overall industry impact. During the evaluation stage, 60 percent of the marks came from the professional judges’ report cards, with the remaining 40 percent from online public voting. Judges scored submissions based on multiple criteria: service excellence, innovation and improvement, customer satisfaction, sustainability and responsibility, operational excellence and safety, sales and revenue performance, leadership and team development, and industry contribution. This year, SATA placed particular emphasis on sustainability, cultural authenticity, and digital innovation. “SATA brings together over 300 delegates from across the South Asian region to celebrate the best of South Asian hospitality brands,” said SATA President Ismail Hameed at a press conference held during the event. He added that international establishments such as the Taj Mahal Palace, as well as brands from Nepal and Bhutan, which are unique in their own right, took part in this year’s show. “From travel agents’ associations to hotel associations to tourism boards — all are part of SATA,” Hameed said. He noted that South Asian destinations hold great tourism potential, offering everything from cool weather and beaches to mountains, heritage, history, culture, food, and delicacies. Md Mohsin Hoq Himel, Secretary of the Bangladesh International Hotel Association (BIHA), who attended the event, said: “BIHA has been working with the South Asian Travel Awards in Bangladesh.” Under the overall guidance of Hakim Ali, founder of BIHA, the association has participated in the prestigious event every year, he said. Through this platform, BIHA aims to highlight the service standards of Bangladesh’s local hotels and resorts, showcasing their uniqueness and distinctiveness alongside other regional hotels, Himel added. “This year, every Bangladeshi hotel and resort has achieved remarkable positions. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the award winners.” According to representatives of Bangladesh’s hospitality sector, this international recognition will further advance the country’s tourism and hotel industry in the global market and strengthen Bangladesh’s brand image worldwide, he said. The first edition of the South Asian Travel Awards began in 2016 and has been organised by Highrise every year since, with the support of multiple associations and tourism bodies from across the South Asian region, according to the SATA website. The annual search for South Asia’s most outstanding travel organisations spans a month each year from March to April, calling upon industry professionals to name their preferred travel suppliers in the region who have risen above the competition and surpassed expectations, it read. “The awards programme continues to serve as a platform for nations to come together, not in competition, but in celebration of shared triumphs and brilliance.” Written by Nibir Ayaan