Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine

MADE IN BANGLADESH: Homegrown Champions of Change

Bangladesh’s meteoric rise in the global garment industry has long been admired, and now a deeper transformation is underway — one that reflects diversification, resilience, and ambition. Amid global supply chain realignments and rising manufacturing costs in East Asia, Bangladesh has emerged as one of the world’s most export-ready economies. But beyond the looms and threads, “Made in Bangladesh” businesses are stepping into the spotlight — from green technology and agribusiness to pharmaceuticals and consumer goods. It’s time the world pays closer attention to the homegrown brands proudly carrying the “Made in Bangladesh” label. The list is far from exhaustive, as Bangladesh is home to many more brands that deserve global recognition. In this special feature, we bring into focus five companies and visionaries who have not only grown with the country but have also redefined what it means to be a “Made in Bangladesh” business. From expanding beyond borders to competing with international players, their journeys reflect the spirit of a nation that refuses to be boxed in. A common thread binds them all — a relentless desire to rise despite the odds. To begin the story, there is none other than Anis Ud Dowla, the visionary chairman of ACI Group. A pioneer in every sense, Dowla represents the kind of leadership that has helped redefine the possibilities of Bangladeshi enterprise. Next comes Hossain Khaled, Chairman of City Bank. This visionary banker played a crucial role in transforming a struggling bank with weak financials into one of the top lenders in the country. From the travel and tourism field, Sadia Haque — co-founder and CEO of ShareTrip — steals the spotlight with her innovations in the sector. The full-stack travel solutions her firm offers have brought about a massive change in the tourism landscape of Bangladesh. No story on Bangladesh would be complete without mentioning Ahsan Khan Chowdhury, chairman and CEO of Pran-RFL Group — a perfect example of how a legacy can be nurtured and turned into an empire. And last but not least, Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC — the first Bangladesh-origin company to ship electrical and electronic appliances to international markets — stands as a testament to the nation’s growing industrial prowess. Let’s explore the trailblazers behind the “Made in Bangladesh” renaissance. A Beacon of Principled Leadership In Bangladesh’s corporate history, few names command as much respect as M. Anis Ud Dowla. At a time when business and politics often converge, Dowla has carved a distinct path—one rooted in ethics, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to national progress. His career began not in boardrooms but in the field, as a young executive with British Oxygen. Over nearly three decades, he rose through the ranks, managing operations across Pakistan, Kenya, and Bangladesh. That global exposure laid the foundation for a leadership style defined by experimentation and efficiency. The defining moment came in 1992, when Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) offered him a chance to take over its Bangladesh operations. The deal was unconventional: a “pay-as-you-earn” arrangement that required no upfront capital. Dowla accepted, and Advanced Chemical Industries (ACI) was born. “The beginning was challenging, but I made sure that no matter what, I would remain fair to my workers,” Dowla said. “I assured them that they would receive a fair share of the benefits for the efforts they were putting in. It was a 60:40 profit-sharing arrangement between the investors and workers. And it paid off.” From modest beginnings with just 352 employees, ACI has grown into one of the country’s largest conglomerates, now employing over 30,000 people across 29 subsidiaries. Its portfolio spans pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, agribusiness, and logistics. Under Dowla’s leadership, ACI became the first Bangladeshi company to earn ISO 9001 certification, setting a benchmark for quality and transparency. “I wanted to have a guardian who would ensure that there was no compromise in quality. The ISO certificate did that for me. They used to visit ACI, conduct audits, and help me produce quality products every time.” “I went for the certificate to fulfil my dream of remaining true to our customers and never deceiving anyone in any way.” Despite his success, Dowla remains grounded. His philosophy centres on values—quality, fairness, customer focus, and continuous improvement. These principles, he insists, are not slogans but lived realities within the company. Dowla’s views on politics are equally clear-cut. He believes that mixing business with political ambition undermines merit and compromises governance. “I strongly believe entrepreneurs should not enter politics, and politicians should not be entrepreneurs.” For Dowla, politics is a service, not a career path for entrepreneurs. At ACI, employees are treated as family. The ACI chairman sees leadership as a process of unlocking human potential. To young entrepreneurs, his advice is simple yet profound: pursue what you love, embrace failure as a lesson, and never settle for shortcuts. Even in his late eighties, Dowla remains active, drawing energy from ideas rather than rest. In an era of blurred boundaries and shifting values, Anis Ud Dowla stands as a beacon of principled leadership—an icon admired not just for what he built, but for how he built it. From Startup to Market Leader When Sadia Haque set out to build a travel platform, her vision was rooted in something deeper than bookings and itineraries. “We wanted a travel tech platform where everything would be shared,” said the ShareTrip CEO and Co-Founder. “Sharing of adventure, sharing of experience, sharing of laughter, and sharing of joy. And from that perspective, the name came as ShareTrip.” That philosophy of connection would go on to shape one of Bangladesh’s most successful digital ventures. Drawing on her background in telecoms, media, and technology, Haque channelled over a decade of corporate experience into a startup that would soon redefine how the country travels.

Architect Marina Tabassum A Rare Brilliance

Architect Marina Tabassum has carved a luminous path that transcends architecture and redefined design as a language of place—rooted in climate, culture, and community. Her Bait Ur Rouf Mosque, completed in 2012, became a global milestone when it earned the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2016. In 2025, she achieved the rare distinction of winning the Aga Khan Award again, this time for Khudi Bari. Her brilliance extends far beyond these awards. Tabassum has designed the Museum of Independence, Panigram Eco Resort, Hamidur Rahman Memorial Complex, and Comfort Reverie, each reflecting her mastery of rhythm, sustainability, and memory. Internationally, she was commissioned to design the Serpentine Pavilion in London. Marina studied architecture at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) and founded her own firm, Marina Tabassum Architects (MTA), in 2005. She has taught at renowned institutions worldwide: Professor at the Technical University of Delft (2022–23), Gerald Sheff Visiting Chair at the University of Toronto, and lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Design, University of Texas, Bengal Institute, and BRAC University. Her work has earned numerous international accolades, including an honorary doctorate from the Technical University of Munich, the Arnold Brunner Memorial Prize from the American Academy of Arts and Letters, the Gold Medal from the French Academy of Architecture, and the Soane Medal in Architecture from the United Kingdom. She chairs FACE (Foundation for Architecture and Community Equity) and Prakriti, a fair‑trade organization, and is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. Between 2017 and 2022, she served on the Steering Committee of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. Her accolades span continents: TIME 100 (2024), Chevalier of Arts and Letters (2023), UIA Vassilis Sgoutas Prize (2023), Jameel Prize (2018), and Prospect’s Top Ten Thinkers (2020). Bait Ur Rouf Mosque In the northern edge of Dhaka, beside the Turag Canal, the Bait Ur Rouf Mosque rises as a beacon of simplicity, spirituality, and environmental consciousness. Designed by Marina Tabassum in 2006, the project was deeply personal—commissioned by her grandmother, who donated the land. The mosque rejects ornamentation, instead embracing perforated brickwork that allows natural light and ventilation to animate the prayer hall. This environmentally friendly approach is rare in Bangladesh, where mosques often rely on artificial cooling and lighting. Here, light itself becomes the architecture—shifting with the hours of prayer, creating atmospheres of contemplation and serenity. Tabassum’s design responds to both urban transformation and community needs. As Dhaka’s sprawl consumed open spaces, she envisioned the mosque as more than a place of worship: a plinth and gathering space for dialogue, reflection, and social interaction. Rooted in Islamic tradition, where mosques historically served multiple civic functions, the building reclaims that identity for modern times. The prayer hall, rotated to align with the qibla, is supported by eight columns and wrapped in load‑bearing brickwork, balancing cost efficiency with timeless strength. Awarded the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2016, Bait Ur Rouf Mosque stands as a model of climate‑responsive, community‑driven design—an enduring testament to the power of light, space, and faith. Khudi Bari In Bangladesh’s fragile deltaic landscape, where rivers shift and floods displace thousands, Marina Tabassum envisioned Khudi Bari—a self‑initiated experiment that has grown into a global model of resilience. Meaning “small house,” the lightweight, modular shelter is built from bamboo and corrugated metal, designed to be assembled quickly, relocated easily, and withstand the pressures of a volatile climate. What began as a modest idea has transformed lives across chars, floodplains, and refugee camps. Families who once lost everything to river erosion now remain together during disasters, a safeguard against child marriage and trafficking. In Rangpur, when surrounding homes collapsed in a storm, Khudi Bari units stood firm. The design’s impact extends beyond Bangladesh. The Vitra Design Museum in Germany acquired a Khudi Bari for its permanent collection, while the World Food Programme commissioned Tabassum to adapt the system for Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar. There, Khudi Bari evolved into women‑friendly community centres, food distribution outlets, and “Shantikhana” or Houses of Peace—spaces for education, livelihood, and healing. Awarded the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2025, Khudi Bari is more than shelter. It is architecture as empathy—an elegant, low‑cost structure that restores dignity, strengthens communities, and redefines how design can serve humanity. To honour the brilliance and achievements of Architect Marina Tabassum, Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine, a publication of the Bangladesh Ceramic Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BCMEA), in partnership with ArchiConnect—the first and largest digital platform for architects and professionals in the construction industry in Bangladesh—organised a grand event at the Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel on November 8. Architect Moushumi Ahmed moderated the beautifully crafted night, attended by the country’s leading architects, real estate and construction industry leaders, and media personnel. In his opening remarks, Architect Jalal Ahmed, FIAAB, KIA, founder and CEO of ArchiConnect, said: “Winning the Aga Khan Award for Architecture—often referred to as the ‘Oscar of architecture’—was no accident. It is the result of her deep thinking, clarity of perspective, and unwavering ethical commitment.” PANEL DISCUSSION The grand event had a panel discussion featuring the country’s top architectural minds. Architect Mahmudul Anwar Riyaad, principal designer and director of DWM4 Architects, moderated the session, opening with the question of how the Aga Khan Awards had affected architects during the 1980s. Architect Fuad Hassan Mallick, professor and dean of the School of Architecture and Design at BRAC University, recalled the surprise of the first award cycle: “I personally felt that architecture’s spectrum is much larger than what we understood—and also it seemed relevant for our country. This sort of thing ended up being number one for many of us. After that, when Mimar magazine appeared, we understood architecture is not only Western, American, and Europe‑centric. Something is there in our region also.” Architect Nahas Ahmed Khalil, principal designer of ARC Architectural Consultants, praised the honesty in Marina’s design

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

Spotlights

National SME Product Fair begins today

The curtain rises today on the 12th National SME Product Fair, a flagship exhibition spotlighting the rapid expansion of Bangladesh’s small and medium enterprise sector. The event, organised by the SME Foundation, has become a cornerstone of the country’s entrepreneurial calendar, offering a platform where innovation, tradition, and business ambition converge. The SME Foundation, which is steering the initiative, underscored its ambitions to widen market reach, accelerate innovation, and strengthen the country’s entrepreneurial base. Officials emphasise that the fair is not merely a showcase of products but a comprehensive programme designed to connect entrepreneurs with consumers, investors, and policymakers, thereby strengthening the ecosystem that sustains small and medium enterprises. The eight-day programme is being staged at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, drawing participants from across the nation’s diverse business landscape. Organisers expect a vibrant atmosphere, with stalls and exhibitions reflecting the

Gallery Plat-forms Hosts ‘Beyond the Veil’

Gallery Plat-forms is hosting ‘Beyond the Veil’ – 3rd solo exhibition by M F I Mazumder Shakil. In this exhibition, the artist presents the ancient medium of woodcut in a fresh, contemporary artistic form. A total of 24 woodcut prints are on display which includes 8 large-scale works. The exhibition began on November 9 and has now been extended until December 13, with visiting hours from 11 am to 8pm. As noted by Gallery Plat-forms, in ‘Beyond the Veil’, Shakil revives the long-format woodcut to explore a world both intimate and exclusive. Through sweeping panels in amber, midnight blue, and stark monochrome, a woman emerges through fabric, fold and shadow. The veil becomes a threshold rather than concealment, inviting us to see without seeing. Each cut and layer conjures the textures of cloth and memory, secrecy and freedom. Part portrait, part landscape of the unseen. Beyond the veil transcends identity to question how we perceive, what lies hidden. Rooted in tradition yet distinctly contemporary. Shakil’s work reimagines the politics of visibility and expands the language of global printmaking. “My work is primarily in printmaking – specifically woodcut. I begin by drawing on plywood or any other board, then carve the block using woodcut tools based on the distribution of light and shadow. After that, I apply ink to the block with a roller through various processes, and finally transfer the print onto paper. Depending on the size, completing a single piece can take several months,” explains Shakil. “I have participated in various exhibitions, art camps, and art fairs both in Bangladesh and abroad. In the future, I plan to organize solo exhibitions outside the country as well. In recent times, young artists in Bangladesh have been tirelessly pursuing creative practice, and their works have already received significant recognition on the international stage. However, the overall acceptance of fine arts within the country has yet to reach the desired level. I remain hopeful that with proper patronage and support, our artists will be able to present Bangladesh’s artistic heritage to the world with even greater distinction,” the artist further adds. Mohammed Fakhrul Islam Mazumder, a Bangladeshi artist born in Comilla in 1989. He completed his M.F.A and B.F.A in Printmaking from the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University in 2016 and in 2014. Mazumder has held two solo exhibitions— “Obscure Beauty” (GalleryChitrak, 2023) and “The Odyssey of the Soul” (Zainul Gallery, 2018). His art has been showcased widely across Asia,Europe, and Australia, including major exhibitions in Japan, China, Thailand, Korea, India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. He has received numerous national and international awards such as the 26th Berger Young Painters’ Award (2022), Excellent Works Award, COP15 Global Art & Design Competition, China (2022), 2nd International Print Biennale Award, India (2021), and the Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin Award (2019). Mazumder’s works are part of collections at the China Printmaking Museum, Ino-cho Paper Museum (Japan), Bengal Foundation, and Lalit Kala Academy (India). He has also participated in several artist residencies, including the Chitrashala International Artist Residency in India and Kali Artist Residency at Cosmos Atelier 71, Bangladesh. Currently, Mazumder continues to experiment with layers of print, texture, and form to reflect the subtle interplay between the visible and the unseen. Through this exhibition, Shakil opens a new doorway not only to beauty but also to perception. His works, imprinted with the labor of hand-carved marks on solid wood surfaces, unfold into a poetry of light and shadow. This exhibition is part of Gallery Plat-forms’ commitment to presenting Bangladeshi artists who bring together heritage and contemporaneity, offering them anew to the global stage. Written by Tasmiah Chowdhury Photo Credits Sarmin Akter lina Gallery plat-Forms

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

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