19 October 2026

Daily Brief · 25 stories
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Business & Economy

6 stories

Business & Economy

Less than a fifth of Tk60,000 crore stimulus paid

Banks disbursed Tk11,959.82 crore from a Tk60,000 crore stimulus package by 15 October, Bangladesh Bank figures released on 18 October show. Another Tk2,559.97 crore was pending. Actual payments represented about 19.9 per cent of the package; the larger combined total includes money borrowers had not yet received.

Business & Economy

Cabinet backs rooftop-solar rules for 3,000–4,000MW expansion

The cabinet has approved a draft ordinance to accelerate rooftop solar installations, supporting a target of 3,000–4,000MW before next summer. It would clarify investment arrangements, electricity pricing, rooftop rent and maintenance. The proposal remains subject to legal vetting, with private investors and revenue-earning institutions expected to finance projects.

Business & Economy

Grameen Kalyan wins temporary stay on Tk666 crore recovery

The Supreme Court’s chamber judge stayed directions to recover Tk666 crore in tax arrears from Grameen Kalyan on 18 October. Leave-to-appeal petitions are due before the regular Appellate Division on 13 December. The interim order does not cancel the tax liability or settle the underlying dispute.

Business & Economy

Japanese investors outline $1.2 billion tourism plan for Bangladesh

A Japanese business delegation has outlined an initial $1.2 billion tourism and hospitality investment plan, Bangladesh’s tourism ministry said after an 18 October meeting. The government will consider formal proposals, while the Bangladesh Tourism Board is expected to help arrange visits to potential project sites.

Business & Economy

Prior-approval requirement suspended for boiler imports, central bank tells banks

Bangladesh Bank has told authorised dealer banks to follow the decision suspending prior approval for boiler imports. The 18 October circular cites difficulties obtaining manufacturers’ drawings before purchase orders. The suspension concerns this approval step under the Boiler Rules 2025.

Business & Economy

Bangladesh and Uzbekistan discuss possible free-trade agreement in Baghdad

Bangladesh and Uzbekistan discussed a possible free-trade agreement in Baghdad on 18 October. State Minister Humaiun Kobir met Uzbek Deputy Foreign Minister Aloyev Bakhromjon Juraboyevich on the sidelines of the OIC meeting. Their talks also covered investment, air links, tourism and cooperation in multilateral forums.