Summary: The planned merger of Padma Bank and Exim Bank is expected to take 18 months to 2.5 years, according to central bank authorities. The banks must submit a formal application to the Bangladesh Bank, supporting documentation, and a copy of the merger plan. The merger will be approved if the central bank approves the plan. Exim Bank, listed on... Read More
Summary In order to secure the continuation of duty-free export facilities after Bangladesh leaves the list of least developed countries, and to attract more investment from the world's fourth-largest economy, Japan and Bangladesh have decided to formally start negotiations for the signing of an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) by 2026. In an effort to sign the EPA, Bangladesh and Japan... Read More
For 53 years, Bangladesh's trade has been navigated by the compass of a dated Customs Act. However, 2023 ushered in a paradigm shift with the enactment of the new Customs Act-2023, promising smoother sailing for businesses and a revitalized trade landscape. Let's delve into the legal depths of this transformative law, charting its course through transparency, accountability, and efficiency. Floating... Read More
Bangladesh has set an ambitious goal of generating more than 4,100 megawatts of electricity from renewable energy sources by 2030 as the county looks to cut greenhouse gas emissions significantly. Bangladesh's renewable energy sector is experiencing a surge, driven by both environmental concerns and the rising cost of traditional fossil fuels. Solar and wind power are leading the charge, with... Read More
Summary: The Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) directed listed firms to ensure 30% shareholding by sponsors and directors. Non-compliant firms, including Active Fine Chemicals and Central Pharmaceuticals, face scrutiny. The commission appointed independent directors to six firms and granted a year for 13 others to comply. Experts suggest removing non-compliant directors to protect investors. BSEC spokesperson noted ongoing efforts... Read More
Summary: It has been 52 years since a bank in Bangladesh has closed and the assurance is that none will close soon. However, weaker banks that are facing problems may consider mergers and acquisitions (M&A) to strengthen their capital base, as per the Bangladesh Bank. The Governor of Bangladesh Bank, Mr. Abdur Rouf Talukder, stated on Wednesday that this option... Read More
Summary: At the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi, Bangladesh successfully negotiated a three-year extension of duty-free market access following its graduation to a developing nation in 2026. Supported by 166 WTO members, this extension ensures continued access to LDC-specific technical assistance and capacity-building programs. The negotiations, spanning over five days, addressed concerns over potential trade losses post-graduation, exacerbated... Read More
Summary The new regulations mandate banking managing directors or CEOs to have 20 years of experience, aged 45-65, with a three-year tenure, requiring Bangladesh Bank approval for appointments. To ensure governance and depositor protection, candidates are interviewed by central banks and then assessed by a committee. MDs who quit must justify, and new hires are expected to meet performance goals... Read More
Summary: The Bangladesh Bank has mandated that independent directors in banks must be aged between 45 and 75 and cannot have family members holding shares in the bank. Any complaints proven against them will result in actions taken by the Bangladesh Bank under the Bank Company Act. Additionally, independent directors must possess at least 10 years of management or professional... Read More
Summary The specialized unit for large taxpayers of the National Board of Revenue has recently advocated for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) as a means of resolving tax-related disputes for large corporations in the country. The unit has emphasized that opting for ADR can lead to a mutually beneficial outcome for all parties involved. By resorting to this mechanism, large corporations... Read More
