United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) has raised the price of jet fuel for domestic flights to Tk 202.29 per litre from Tk 112.41. The decision was taken at an emergency meeting on Tuesday, considering the average Platts rates between March 5 and March 22, revised premiums for January–June 2026, the US dollar exchange rate, and an unchanged diesel price. For international flights, the price has been increased to $1.3216 per litre from $0.7385. The Aviation Operators Association of Bangladesh (AOAB) expressed deep concern over the sharp hike, saying it would have a severe negative impact on the country’s aviation industry. AOAB Secretary General Mofizur Rahman said there is no shortage of fuel in the country as confirmed by the ministry concerend. “Around 25 oil tankers have arrived in the country over the past 22 days and the fuel was procured at previously set prices. At the same time, global oil prices have declined recently,” he said. In this context, such a significant increase in jet fuel prices based on fears of future price hikes is not justified, he added. He also pointed out that the increase in Bangladesh is significantly higher compared to neighbouring countries. While India and Nepal have kept jet fuel prices unchanged, Pakistan increased prices by 24.49 percent and the Maldives by 18.54 percent whereas Bangladesh raised it by nearly 80 percent. AOAB warned that the decision would put airlines under severe financial strain and increase costs for passengers on domestic routes. It also said higher taxes on jet fuel would further raise operational expenses, hindering sustainable growth of the aviation sector. The association feared that domestic flight operations could be severely disrupted or even suspended if the new prices remain in effect. AOAB urged the government to reconsider the decision and set a realistic and acceptable price to ensure stability and growth in the country’s aviation industry.

Nepal has expressed interest in working with the new government in Bangladesh to take the bilateral relations between the two countries to a new height. Bangladesh Ambassador to Nepal Md Shafiqur Rahman on Monday paid a courtesy call on with Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav, Vice-President of Nepal, in his office to extend the invitation to the celebration of the 55th anniversary of the National Day of Bangladesh. The Vice-President kindly accepted the invitation to grace the event as the chief guest. During the call on, they exchanged views on issues of mutual interests pertaining to the long-standing bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Nepal. The Vice-President congratulated Bangladesh for successfully holding the elections and expressed interests to work with the new government to take the bilateral relations between the two countries to a new height. In response, Bangladesh Ambassador conveyed the keenness of the new government of Bangladesh to work closely with the new government of Nepal, which is on the process to be formed very soon.

The European Union’s apparel import sector has started the year 2026 on a dull note, recording a double-digit decline in value as major global suppliers, including Bangladesh, face significant negative growth.According to the latest data from Eurostat, the EU's total apparel imports fell by 15.48 percent in January 2026 compared to the same month last year, with total import values dropping to €7.03 billion. This downturn was driven by an 8.36 percent decline in import volume (million kg) and a 7.76 percent decrease in average unit prices.Bangladesh, one of the EU's primary garment sources, experienced a particularly challenging month. The country’s apparel exports to the EU fell to €1.43 billion in January 2026, marking a sharp 25.25 percent negative growth in value.Analysis of the data reveals that this decline was a "double blow" in terms of both volume and price. Bangladesh saw a 17.49 percent decrease in the quantity of goods shipped, coupled with a 9.41 percent drop in the unit price per kilogram. This significant contraction highlights a cooling demand or shifting dynamics within the EU market for Bangladeshi Ready-Made Garment (RMG) products. Other major manufacturing hubs also mirrored this downward trend, though to varying degrees.China remained the top exporter with €2.22 billion, but still saw a 6.90 percent decline in value. Interestingly, while their unit prices dropped by 8.01 percent, their export volume actually grew slightly by 1.21 percent.Turkey faced a severe hit with a 29.12 percent decrease in export value, totaling €619.98 million.Other countries like India, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Cambodia all remained in negative territory, reflecting a broad-based slowdown in the European fashion retail market.Mohiuddin Rubel, a former director of BGMEA, noted that the overall decline in unit prices (averaging €18.63/kg for the "World" category) indicates a highly competitive, price-sensitive environment in the EU. For Bangladesh, the decrease in unit price to €13.66/kg—which is significantly lower than the global average—indicates ongoing pressure on profit margins for local manufacturers.As the year progresses, Bangladeshi exporters will be closely watching if this January slump is a temporary seasonal adjustment or a sign of more persistent economic headwinds in the Eurozone.

The government has decided to increase fuel imports by 25 percent in the course of the current year to tackle potential supply disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Energy Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood said on Monday. “Despite global concerns over fuel supply, there is no immediate crisis in Bangladesh. As a precautionary measure, the government has decided to raise fuel imports by 25 percent,” Iqbal told reporters at his residence in Dhaka in the afternoon. The minister said vessels carrying sufficient fuel supplies are arriving at ports, and the government is maintaining strict vigilance to ensure uninterrupted distribution across the country. Highlighting the government’s subsidy efforts, the minister said fuel is being purchased at higher prices from the spot market but sold to consumers at lower rates. “The duration of the conflict remains uncertain, the government will continue providing subsidies for as long as possible, considering people’s purchasing capacity,” he added. Referring to disruptions in global supply routes, Iqbal noted that oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz are facing challenges. “Ships are unable to move normally through the Strait of Hormuz and require special permissions, which is causing some disruptions to regular supply.” On fuel reserves, the minister said stock levels are being managed based on demand, and uninterrupted supply has so far prevented any major crisis. Urging the public to remain calm, he called on consumers to avoid panic buying. “Please refrain from panic buying. Purchase only what you need. Panic buying is increasing pressure on depots and fuel stations.” Meanwhile, visits to several fuel pumps in the capital found vehicles waiting in long queues for fuel, while some stations were temporarily shut after running out of stock due to increased demand: further fuelling public anxiety.

The Cabinet on Tuesday approved Bangladesh’s proposal to join the “Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement (IFDA)” under the plurilateral Joint Statement Initiative of the World Trade Organization (WTO). The decision was made at a Cabinet meeting held at the Secretariat, chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani told reporters that the agreement aims to facilitate foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bangladesh. Prof Yunus seeks WTO support for Bangladesh’s smooth LDC graduation He said the pact does not impose any new obligations regarding market access or investor-state dispute settlement. Instead, it seeks to enhance transparency in investment procedures, simplify registration and approvals, reduce unnecessary multiple applications, and maintain a database of domestic investors. The government expects that joining the agreement will further boost Bangladesh’s international reputation as an attractive destination for foreign investment.

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has predicted rain and thundershowers at several places in eight divisions of the country, including Dhaka, for 24 hours commencing 9 am on Tuesday. “Rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty or squally wind and lightning flashes is likely to occur at a few places over Sylhet division and at one or two places over Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal and Chattogram divisions with hails at isolated places,” said a Met office bulletin. Rain or thundershowers likely in parts of Bangladesh: BMD Day and night temperatures may remain nearly unchanged over the country. A trough of low lies over West Bengal and adjoining area. Seasonal low lies over South Bay.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday pledged to transform Bangladesh into a beautiful, prosperous, economically and politically strong country with the support of its people, saying his government has begun nation-building work through a nationwide canal restoration programme. Addressing a public rally near Sahapara canal in Kaharol upazila of Dinajpur during the inauguration of the canal excavation and re-excavation programme, he also urged people to remain alert against those who try to create chaos and mislead them with sweet words. “We have started the work to build the nation through the canal excavation programme… We want to create a Bangladesh where people can assert their own rights and where the country will be strong both economically and politically. This is the Bangladesh we aim to build,” Tarique Rahman said. He also emphasised that the people of Bangladesh are the true owners of the country and that with their support, the nation can be successfully developed. “Many of you have relatives abroad. When you speak to them, they often praise other countries and say how beautiful those places are. But it is the people of those countries who have built and developed their nations, not outsiders… If they could do it, why can’t we? Inshallah, we can do it too,” the Prime Minister said. He recalled the heroic efforts of the people who fought for Bangladesh’s independence in 1971 and of the students who ended dictatorship through the 2024 mass uprising. “It was the people of this country who doubled food production through efforts like irrigation and canal digging during the tenure of Martyred Ziaur Rahman. If they could achieve so much, surely we can build the future Bangladesh,” Tarique said. He said that public support and proper planning are essential to move the country forward. “We must remain alert and vigilant against those who try to create disorder in the country through false narratives and misleading remarks. We need to be careful, as many speak sweet words but aim to confuse and mislead people.’ The Prime Minister stressed that the government’s plans are aimed at benefiting farmers, empowering women, ensuring better healthcare, improving education for the next generation, and creating employment opportunities in agriculture and industry. “But I cannot do this alone. I need the people’s support. Just as you supported the BNP’s symbol of the sheaf of paddy during elections, your continued support is essential. Without the backing of the people, national development is not possible, because the people are the true source of all power,” he said. The Prime Minister also said with the support of people, any plan can be successfully implemented. “I always say one thing: we will work and build the nation—Bangladesh comes first. Let us build that Bangladesh together. Let this be our pledge and our oath today.” “Once fully completed, the Sahapara canal will supply water to around 31,000 farmers and benefit nearly 350,000 people. About 1,200 hectares of land will receive irrigation from this canal. Farmers in this area will see increased crop production, potentially producing 60,000 metric tonnes more than currently,” he said. Tarique also said the canal will also support fish farming, conserve water during the dry season, and provide opportunities for tree planting along its banks. “Once the re-excavation is complete, I will return to see the canal again.” The Prime Minister also highlighted other election pledges, including the Family Card programme, waiving agricultural loans (up to Tk 10,000 with interest), distributing agriculture cards in April, and creating employment opportunities. “Do you think these initiatives will change people’s lives? We believe they will… The BNP’s politics is about improving people’s lives. We want to take steps that will double people’s income. This is the aim of our politics — the politics of Martyred Ziaur Rahman, the politics of Khaleda Zia, and the politics of your elected BNP government,” he said. The Prime Minister said most of Bangladesh’s nearly 200 million people live in rural areas and agriculture is their main livelihood, making it essential to build the sector on a strong foundation. He also mentioned plans to develop agro-based industries in the agriculture-dependent northern region. Tarique said discussions are underway with major agro-processing companies, and after Eid a meeting will be held with them to take initiatives to establish agro-based mills and industries in areas including Dinajpur, Thakurgaon and Panchagarh. Stating that changing people’s fates is the core goal of the BNP, he said the current government also wants to stand by the farmers. “Our goal is to support farmers. Shaheed Zia and Khaleda Zia were friends of farmers, and the present BNP government elected by you is also a friend of farmers. If farmers do well, the people of Bangladesh will alsodo well. That is why we want to strengthen agriculture and build the country’s farming sector on a strong foundation.” The rally was jointly organised by the Water Resources Ministry and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). BNP Secretary General and Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Professor AZM Zahid Hossain, Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie, Disaster Management Minister Asadul Habib Dulu and State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain, among others, spoke at the programme. Earlier, the Prime Minister inaugurated a nationwide canal excavation and re-excavation programme by cutting soil with a spade at Sahapara canal in Kaharol upazila of Dinajpu, The nearly 12-kilometre Sahapara canal was originally excavated by then and Tarique’s father President Ziaur Rahman in 1977. Just like his father, the Prime Minister personally cut the soil with a spade to launch the programme on Monday at around 12:27pm. Dressed in a polo shirt, jeans and sneakers, Tarique Rahman wore a red-and-green cap inscribed with the slogan ‘Bangladesh First’. Through this event, he formally launched the canal excavation and re-excavation programme in 54 districts across the country, including the Sahapara canal in Balrampur of Kaharol upazila in Dinajpur. After reaching the canal bank, the Prime Minister first looked at a map of the canal and then moved forward to cut the soil of the canal. Later, he planted several trees along the canal banks. After introducing the Family Card programme earlier, the Prime Minister launched the canal revival initiative to fulfil another election pledge made by the BNP ahead of the 13th parliamentary election.

State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque on Monday congratulated the Bangladesh national cricket team for the three-match ODI series victory against Pakistan after securing an 11-run win  in the final match. In a congratulatory message, the state minister praised the team’s fighting spirit and determination, describing the series win as a historic milestone for Bangladesh cricket. “I am extremely proud of the indomitable spirit and competitive mindset shown by our cricketers,” he said, adding that the players’ patience and courage on the field brought joy to the entire nation. The minister also extended his greetings to the team’s coaches and all those associated with the Bangladesh Cricket Board for their contribution to the success. He expressed hope that the national team would continue its winning momentum and further strengthen Bangladesh’s position in world cricket.

Opening batter Tanzid Hasan struck his first One-Day International century to anchor Bangladesh to a competitive 290 for five in the third and final match of the series against Pakistan at Shere Bangla National Stadium on Sunday. Tanzid’s 107 off 107 balls provided the backbone of the innings after Bangladesh was asked to bat first in the series decider. The 23-year-old left-hander reached the milestone in style, pulling spinner Salman Agha for six to record his maiden ton in his 31st appearance. His innings included seven sixes and six boundaries before he fell to a soft dismissal, caught at short cover off Abrar Ahmed. The hosts enjoyed a prolific start as Tanzid and Saif Hassan shared a 105-run opening stand, Bangladesh’s second 50-plus opening partnership in 17 innings. Saif contributed a steady 36 before being bowled by Shaheen Afridi. Pakistan’s pace spearhead Haris Rauf momentarily shifted the momentum in the later stages. Rauf claimed two wickets in consecutive deliveries in the 47th over, removing Litton Das for 41 and bowling Rishad Hossain for a golden duck. Litton, who was earlier dropped on three, struggled to find his usual rhythm, taking 51 balls for his 41. Despite losing set batters, Towhid Hridoy maintained the pressure with a brisk, unbeaten 48 off 44 deliveries. However, Pakistan’s death bowling proved effective; Bangladesh managed only 13 runs in the final two overs, falling just short of the 300-run mark.

Dhaka, the densely populated capital of Bangladesh, ranked thirteenth among the world’s most polluted cities on Sunday morning, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 115 at 11:10 am. Today's air was classified as "unhealthy for sensitive groups", referring to a health threat, according to the AQI index. Bishek in Kyrgyzstan, Kathmandu in Nepal, Beijing in China occupied the first, third, and fourth spots on the list, with AQI scores of 197, 166, and 160 respectively. AQI levels of 101–150 are ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, 151–200 is ‘unhealthy’, 201–300 is ‘very unhealthy’, and readings above 301 are considered ‘hazardous’, posing severe health risks. The AQI, which reports daily air quality, informs residents how clean or polluted the air is and highlights potential health effects. In Bangladesh, the AQI is calculated based on five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution. Air quality usually deteriorates in winter and improves during the monsoon season. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution causes about seven million deaths worldwide each year, primarily from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.