Bangladesh Economic & Infrastructure Development - Updates & Discussions
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Bilal9
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MV Mahabaahu, a luxurious Indo-Bangla marine passenger vessel set sail on Brahmaputra
A Monitor Report
1 June, 2019
Dhaka : MV Mahabaahu, a luxurious Indo-Bangla marine passenger vessel set sail on Brahmaputra on April 29 from Assam for its first voyage to Kolkata, making a stop at Dhaka on May 6.
Dazzling sandbars, lush forests, close encounters with wildlife and ancient architecture - these are some of the delights that MV Mahabaahu offers to the guests.
Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Sundarbans, Mosque City of Bagerhat (Bangladesh) and Manas National Park in Assam - are among its stopovers.
They stayed on Assam for 7 days and left its Pandu port on a 17 day voyage with 43 persons on board including 10 foreign tourists, 8 British and 2 Indian. The rest are crew members.
They reached Dhaka on May 6 and again started for Kolkata on May 9. In September, they will start for Sundarbans from Kolkata.
"Our effort is to offer tourists to experience this 'off beat path' on the deliciously lush landscape where more than 700 rivers braid through the country.
Travelling by boat provides a fabulous opportunity to see the country differently,” said Neena Morada, Cruise Director, MV Mahabaahu.
This allowed the country to reveal its intricate weave of majority Muslims, Christian Adivasi Tribal, Buddhists and Hindu Cultures. Hilsha fishing with otters, floating markets and clay pottery are part and parcels of Bangla life which the guests got to enjoy.
In October last year, India and Bangladesh signed a new river route protocol, according to which tourist vessels from Assam will sail through Bangladesh for Kolkata. Following the treaty, MV Madhumati, RV Bengal Ganga and now MV Mahabaahu set sail.
MV Mahabaahu is a joint venture between Adventure Resorts and Cruises Limited and Assam Tourism Development Corporation. The local support in Bangladesh is provided by tour operator Journey Wallet Ltd.
"Foreigners are excited to take this trip. They used to cruise to Assam and Kolkata only. Now, they are getting to enjoy Bangladesh on the way. This 18-20 day long voyage on Assam-Bangladesh-Kolkata route is profitable for the ship companies and tour operators too. Many industries will benefit. The government will earn foreign currency as well," said Motiur Rahman, Managing Director, Journey Wallet Ltd.
The luxurious ship runs on three engines. It has a capacity of 44 persons. There are various categories of rooms. And the ship is equipped with all the 5-star facilities - spa, gym, game room, bar, restaurant etc. There are also local products displayed on the ship that foreigners can shop as per choice.
Accommodation costs Rs. 18,000 per person per night. Guests need to pay extra for additional facilities.
Source: Bangladesh Monitor
A Cruise Down the Brahmaputra
Cruise down the Brahmaputra on the luxurious MV Mahabaahu.
WHAT IS THE MAHABAAHU EXPERIENCE?
THE BRAHMAPUTRA
Cruising the Brahmaputra, one of the great rivers of the world, on the truly luxurious MV Mahabaahu is surely one of life’s great pleasures. The Brahmaputra River originates in Tibet, where it is known as the Yarlung Tsangpo, and is considered holy by Hindus and Buddhists alike. Civilizations have lived along the river for thousands of years, many in isolation from each other due to the extensive forests. The Brahmaputra is the only river in India to be given a male name and travels 2,900 km from Tibet, through India to Bangladesh where it flows into the Bay of Bengal.
ABOUT ASSAM
Assam is one of India’s most fascinating and diverse states and the MV Mahabaahu is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the beauty of this oft forgotten region. Land travel in Assam is often difficult, but gliding along the Brahmaputra gets you close to the most wonderful destinations in Assam. Assam is home to many indigenous tribal groups, and along the way you will get to interact with them on village visits, and see their traditional tribal handicrafts being made. They are the perfect souvenir of this amazing trip.
ABOUT MV MAHABAAHU
With only 23 aesthetically designed spacious cabins and suites, and five decks, you can be assured of never feeling crowded. There is always somewhere for a moment of quiet contemplation.
Each accommodation is equipped with air conditioning, attached bathrooms, flat screen TV with satellite connection, mini bar, telephone and electronic safe.
On cruising days, you can delight in sunbathing on the Donyi Deck, taking a dip in the rooftop swimming pool, and just watching the world float by. You should keep your binoculars handy to glimpse the rare freshwater Gangetic dolphins as well as other plentiful wildlife. Enjoy a sunset cocktail on deck, and watch as the sun sets slowly across the jungles and river.
Just imagine evenings under the stars of the Indian sky, the Assamese jungle and the river flowing past, the mighty Himalaya close by, and then retiring after a sumptuous meal and conversations with new friends to your luxurious cabin for a wonderful peaceful sleep.
THE CRUISE
You will cruise through a natural history paradise, where there are over 850 bird species, fresh water dolphins, and plentiful elephants, wild buffalo, tigers and the endangered single horned rhino in the national parks. Escorted shore excursions to tea estates and national parks, evening talks about some of the unique features and cultures of Assam, and cultural performances will truly showcase this pearl of India, all the while ensuring your comfort and enjoyment aboard the MV Mahabaahu.
Shore visits are conducted via two tenders, escorted by our Excursion Officer to ensure your safety and enjoyment.
All our cruising is done between 6.00am and 5.00pm to ensure safe passage and comfortable nights on board.
FUN FACT: As it happened recently, it is even possible to possible to spot tigers in the wild from the deck of the boat. Now if that isn’t an adventurous cruise, then what is?
DINING
The fine dining on board offers you lavish local Assamese dishes, Indian and Continental cuisine prepared fresh by our chefs onboard. Fine wines, beers and spirits are available in the bar and with meals, as well as plentiful tea and coffee in our lounge. Meet your fellow passengers and enjoy a drink and conversation as our experienced crew pilot you through this wondrous scenery.
Our chef holds cooking classes, where you can learn how to prepare local dishes and delicacies, which you can then enjoy with a cup of tea.
RELAXATION
For those times when you want to relax and reflect, the lower deck has a jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room, as well as massage from our certified masseurs.
You’ll always look your best after a visit to our salon and hair spa, ready for another night of convivial companionship and fascinating entertainments on board.
If you prefer to settle in a comfortable chair with a book, the onboard library has books catering to many interest and you are sure to find something to whet your appetite. Perhaps you will find a four for one of our board games too!
Morning yoga is the perfect way to greet the day, pay homage to nature and uplift your senses. If you have never tried yoga, the Brahmaputra is an ideal place to start.
Visiting unspoiled places, experiencing tribal cultures, encountering rare and wonderful wildlife, all from the luxury of the magnificent MV Mahabaahu, is surely an experience you deserve.
Armchair
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Regarding nuclear plants - sadly it seems the plants are run mainly by Russian technicians. Not sure how beneficial this is. Seems more like a show horse.
Regarding growth rate, I believe the figures are doctored. We have a government that can tell BBS (Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics) whatever it wants to show.
Regarding growth in manufacturing, there is a huge potential and there has been quite some growth here.
Still waiting for the evidence of any BD phone company manufacturing phones in Bangladesh. Between, I own a Symphony phone... and always prefer to buy local Bangladeshi products over foreign products (I'm nationalistic enough to try to find local toothpastes and soaps, but my family doesn't like it).
We need to get out of the dream-lala-land mindset. Very childish and very... well sorry niligiri... very Indian. There is great harm in this kind of mindset and even greater harm in the tribal mindest seen on this threat - Bangladeshis are so small minded that they didn't like being Indian, then didn't like being Pakistani, now they are down to their districts and hating each other over that... how sad, silly and ridiculous. A "nation" like this can never truly prosper.
Between, defence.pk is banned in Bangladesh... I am having to use a proxy to gain access. Apparently, according to a few people in the know, a certain private university complained to the authorities regarding this thread:
https://defence.pk/pdf/threads/amer...y-in-bangladesh-to-brainwash-students.545716/
Causing the ban.
Regarding growth rate, I believe the figures are doctored. We have a government that can tell BBS (Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics) whatever it wants to show.
Regarding growth in manufacturing, there is a huge potential and there has been quite some growth here.
Still waiting for the evidence of any BD phone company manufacturing phones in Bangladesh. Between, I own a Symphony phone... and always prefer to buy local Bangladeshi products over foreign products (I'm nationalistic enough to try to find local toothpastes and soaps, but my family doesn't like it).
We need to get out of the dream-lala-land mindset. Very childish and very... well sorry niligiri... very Indian. There is great harm in this kind of mindset and even greater harm in the tribal mindest seen on this threat - Bangladeshis are so small minded that they didn't like being Indian, then didn't like being Pakistani, now they are down to their districts and hating each other over that... how sad, silly and ridiculous. A "nation" like this can never truly prosper.
Between, defence.pk is banned in Bangladesh... I am having to use a proxy to gain access. Apparently, according to a few people in the know, a certain private university complained to the authorities regarding this thread:
https://defence.pk/pdf/threads/amer...y-in-bangladesh-to-brainwash-students.545716/
Causing the ban.
Nilgiri
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BBS will necessarily fudge more as BD hits the ceiling on what the earlier phase of what propelled the 6% low-base effect + RMG zero tariff model comes into view and then starts to apply counter pressure.
Its natural consequence of how BD is run (95% win election and all) and what BD capabilities are to diversify in todays modern economy.
You are welcome to see the growing clarion call with more frequency starting now.
M.A Taslim, Harvard, SANEM and now this CPD group (quoting actual BD bureaucrat talking about the fudging).
Really it is terribly atrocious that at this level of low energy consumption base, Bangladesh is already stagnating in last chunk of 3 years (roughly akin to time period the earlier model magic aka RMG LDC globalism propulsion...wearing off):
Want me to correlate with every other developing country that has gone through 6% growth phase on this? You won't like it one bit. Not one bit. NO ONE hit such a ceiling like this ...this early....and then claims same rate of growth as before. Just watch the next few years, its simple.
You want to know why? Energy consumption cannot be fudged....its a broad base input and large part of the reason why BD takes a hit when PPP is used compared to nominal USD.
No it wouldnt lol. A nominal GDP only really reflects what middle class and rich see in the first place. The growth rate could be far lower for BD if stricter standards are employed by those measuring it (simple things like weighting things...esp broad input stuff like energy... higher to their respective individual inflations rather than agglomerated inflation rate). I mean you have to know how GDP is actually tabulated in different countries statistical standards. Guess what SDDS standard is all about? Guess why BD has no intention of migrating to it? It would be like migrating to an actual fair, transparent election system. Both answers are connected.
You still seem to not basically understand, the GDP is an ESTIMATE.
The GDP is not the economy verbatim.
How good the GDP represents the economy depends on a large factor of things, none of which BD govt shows any keen interest in improving. So over time as the model that propelled a country gets more out of date...without reforms, it will start to atrophy. The very fact more and more basic consumption data is going out of whack with BD claimed GDP shows there is a systemic problem now.
I mean if you are innovating something that no country has ever done (i.e by improving energy efficiencies in some post-industrial scandinavian way for GDP)..in that you can get this GDP growth by growing energy (at low base) consumption by just 3% a year now (since the claim is lack of export growth compounding is made up by switch to some "domestic" growth).....lets see the evidence. But you got none for it. Occam's razor is easy to employ in the end.
I mean I can literally post you what the sustained energy growth rate in consumption was for India in say the 90s (that too already at higher base than you are now). Heres a clue: no it never was something terrible like 3% for any kind of stretch).
Now those exports are hitting the wall as low base effect wears off. Check the last cpl years growth rate compared to years ago growth rate.
Honestly any country that has 2 dollars invested outside per person ought to introspect on what it is first....before labelling anyone else as something. It's really that simple.
No triggering involved....just common sense. It makes for a sad picture if you compare what the outside/inside flow ratio is for BD FDI compared to even 90s India. Again its related to actual capability and capacity intrinsic to a population. Its best to work on fixing that dont you think?
Thats PPP. That's far different to GDP nominal in its calculation methodology. In fact the huge disparity BD has w.r.t India concerning the PPP mulitplier (and also with constant dollar GDP) in itself shows the level of buffer that BBS fudging envelope (combined with bad applicability* of the exchange rate of BDT compared to INR) could be (if you want some estimate of what the frontier envelope is for "fudging"/"limited GDP applicability"/etc).
Right now some mod has combined all the threads together here and its confused as heck now...so I dont feel like going into details about this...but maybe bit later if you keep this convo going.
*why is BDT-USD exchange rate worse to use to apply to Taka GDP compared to INR-USD exchange rate to INR GDP? Curious to see if you can explain, there is lot of hints already.
Its broad trend everywhere in world, especially developing countries. What matters for inflation is how much of everything are you consuming compared to before. PPP is far superior measure for GDP regarding that.
But BD govt GDP (nominal) calculation is far different to calculating PPP. That is why a lot of countries have very different PPP multiplier ratios....not all of it is price level based or consumption basket weight based....lot of it is does the exchange rate and "disguised" inflation bump up the nominal USD value (of GDP) too.
The Ronin
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14 mega projects get Tk45,140 crore
Rooppur gets highest allocation of Tk14,980 crore while the second highest allocation goes to Metro Rail project
The fourteen mega projects, which are now being implemented, have been proposed to get Tk45,140 crore in the budget for the 2019-20 fiscal year.
The government has proposed the highest allocation of Tk14,980 crore for the country’s first nuclear power plant at Rooppur, while the second highest allocation is set to go for Metro Rail project at Tk7,212 crore.
The mega Padma Bridge project has been allocated Tk5,370 crore, while its Rail Link project gets Tk3,995 crore.
In the proposed budget, the Chittagong-Cox's Bazar rail line project gets Tk1,105 crore, and Matarbari power plant at Moheshkhali gets Tk3,056 crore.
The government proposed to allocate Tk1,407 crore for the power grid network, and Tk2,108 crore for the expansion of power system network.
In the outgoing budget, the government had allocated Tk40,000 crore to implement 10 mega projects to strengthen country’s communication network, and to develop the power and energy sector to boost the economy.
Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal presented the proposed budget in the parliament on Thursday afternoon. However, he could not finish the presentation due to ill health. Later, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina took over the budget presentation in place of the finance minister.
The prime minister, on behalf of the finance minister, in her speech said that the government is aiming to achieve the double digit growth as quickly as possible through timely implementation of all nationally important infrastructure projects including mega projects like the Padma Bridge, Padma rail link project, Dohajari-Cox's Bazar rail line, Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, Rampal Power Plant, Payra Sea Port, Matarbari Power Plant at Moheshkhali, and Dhaka Metro Rail.
“About 2km structure of the Padma Bridge, being constructed entirely with our own resources, has now become visible, and the overall physical progress of the project is 67%,” she said.
Some mega projects are being implemented at Paira, Moheshkhali, and Materbari, classifying these areas as power hub. “We selected these areas considering the land availability, transport facilities and load centers.”
The government is implementing a number of mega projects to establish an integrated and uninterrupted communication network in the country. The Padma Bridge, the tunnel under the Karnaphuli riverbed, the Dhaka Elevated Expressway from HazratShahjalal International Airport to Kutubkhali of Dhaka- Chittagong highway, and many other projects are among those, she said.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/busine...6Hl48q0QBwvoCCqAKwoD2MUW8MOdWSV7xGjAgXYO0TsXY
Tk61,455cr allocation for communication infrastructure
The budget for the communication infrastructure sector was Tk53,081 crore in 2018-19 fiscal year
Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal has proposed Tk61,455 crore for the communication infrastructure sector in the national budget of the 2019-20 fiscal year.
“The implementing of the Padma Bridge is underway, along with the tunnel under the Karnaphuli riverbed, the Dhaka Elevated Expressway from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to Kutubkhali on Dhaka-Chittagong Highway and many other mega projects.
"These projects have been undertaken and being implemented in order to establish an integrated and uninterrupted communication network in Bangladesh,” he said while placing the budget at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Thursday.
“About two kilometre structure of the Padma Bridge, being constructed entirely with our own resources, is now visible, and the overall physical progress of the project is 67% ,” he added.
The minister said: "The second Kanchpur, second Gomoti, and second Meghna Bridge have been opened for traffic after completing construction ahead of the stipulated time.
"South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation road connectivity projects one and two are being implemented in order to be connected with the global transport network to reap the benefits of globalization."
The minister added that the government is implementing the Revised Strategic Transport Plan (2015-2035) to develop internal road networks in the Dhaka metropolitan area, reduce traffic congestion at the entry and exit points of the capital and establish a planned as well as integrated modern public transport system and its adjacent areas.
Under this plan, the finance minister said the construction of the first Metro Rail in Bangladesh, MRT Line 6 from Uttara to Motijheel is in progress.
Alongside, the implementation of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to Gazipur is also underway, the minister stated.
He said steps to build a safe, environment-friendly and modern information technology (IT) based road transport and control systems are underway.
A plan has been taken up to install directional sign-signal and kilometre posts in 8,100 spots.
The minister said steps have been taken to gradually upgrade all national highways into four lanes or above in order to modernize the country's road transport system.
"In this respect, 509km national highway has been upgraded into four lanes while upgradation of another 507km highway is going on," he added.
Kamal said: "The present government is giving top priority to the railway sector in order to make railway an economical, safe, and environment-friendly mode of transport.
"For the overall development of railway, the government has undertaken a 30-year master plan spanning from 2016 to 2045 at a cost of Tk553,662 crore."
"Development of necessary infrastructure and facilities at sea ports are also in progress. A plan for construction of the Bay-Terminal at the Chittagong port at a cost of Tk17,000 crore has been undertaken.
"The handling capacity of the Chittagong port will be enhanced in the next financial year from 2.8 million TEUs to 3 million TEUs,” the minister added.
Besides, the construction of the third terminal at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is in progress to enhance its passenger handling capacity to 12 million, he said, adding works for the site selection and feasibility study on the construction of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib International Airport is in progress.
The budget for the communication infrastructure sector was Tk53,081 crore in the last fiscal.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/busine...ovlRUQm76An4ikPgwG_kKP6018QBBnXV7ZBcMn4G-VQmc
Rooppur gets highest allocation of Tk14,980 crore while the second highest allocation goes to Metro Rail project
The fourteen mega projects, which are now being implemented, have been proposed to get Tk45,140 crore in the budget for the 2019-20 fiscal year.
The government has proposed the highest allocation of Tk14,980 crore for the country’s first nuclear power plant at Rooppur, while the second highest allocation is set to go for Metro Rail project at Tk7,212 crore.
The mega Padma Bridge project has been allocated Tk5,370 crore, while its Rail Link project gets Tk3,995 crore.
In the proposed budget, the Chittagong-Cox's Bazar rail line project gets Tk1,105 crore, and Matarbari power plant at Moheshkhali gets Tk3,056 crore.
The government proposed to allocate Tk1,407 crore for the power grid network, and Tk2,108 crore for the expansion of power system network.
In the outgoing budget, the government had allocated Tk40,000 crore to implement 10 mega projects to strengthen country’s communication network, and to develop the power and energy sector to boost the economy.
Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal presented the proposed budget in the parliament on Thursday afternoon. However, he could not finish the presentation due to ill health. Later, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina took over the budget presentation in place of the finance minister.
The prime minister, on behalf of the finance minister, in her speech said that the government is aiming to achieve the double digit growth as quickly as possible through timely implementation of all nationally important infrastructure projects including mega projects like the Padma Bridge, Padma rail link project, Dohajari-Cox's Bazar rail line, Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, Rampal Power Plant, Payra Sea Port, Matarbari Power Plant at Moheshkhali, and Dhaka Metro Rail.
“About 2km structure of the Padma Bridge, being constructed entirely with our own resources, has now become visible, and the overall physical progress of the project is 67%,” she said.
Some mega projects are being implemented at Paira, Moheshkhali, and Materbari, classifying these areas as power hub. “We selected these areas considering the land availability, transport facilities and load centers.”
The government is implementing a number of mega projects to establish an integrated and uninterrupted communication network in the country. The Padma Bridge, the tunnel under the Karnaphuli riverbed, the Dhaka Elevated Expressway from HazratShahjalal International Airport to Kutubkhali of Dhaka- Chittagong highway, and many other projects are among those, she said.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/busine...6Hl48q0QBwvoCCqAKwoD2MUW8MOdWSV7xGjAgXYO0TsXY
Tk61,455cr allocation for communication infrastructure
The budget for the communication infrastructure sector was Tk53,081 crore in 2018-19 fiscal year
Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal has proposed Tk61,455 crore for the communication infrastructure sector in the national budget of the 2019-20 fiscal year.
“The implementing of the Padma Bridge is underway, along with the tunnel under the Karnaphuli riverbed, the Dhaka Elevated Expressway from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to Kutubkhali on Dhaka-Chittagong Highway and many other mega projects.
"These projects have been undertaken and being implemented in order to establish an integrated and uninterrupted communication network in Bangladesh,” he said while placing the budget at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Thursday.
“About two kilometre structure of the Padma Bridge, being constructed entirely with our own resources, is now visible, and the overall physical progress of the project is 67% ,” he added.
The minister said: "The second Kanchpur, second Gomoti, and second Meghna Bridge have been opened for traffic after completing construction ahead of the stipulated time.
"South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation road connectivity projects one and two are being implemented in order to be connected with the global transport network to reap the benefits of globalization."
The minister added that the government is implementing the Revised Strategic Transport Plan (2015-2035) to develop internal road networks in the Dhaka metropolitan area, reduce traffic congestion at the entry and exit points of the capital and establish a planned as well as integrated modern public transport system and its adjacent areas.
Under this plan, the finance minister said the construction of the first Metro Rail in Bangladesh, MRT Line 6 from Uttara to Motijheel is in progress.
Alongside, the implementation of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to Gazipur is also underway, the minister stated.
He said steps to build a safe, environment-friendly and modern information technology (IT) based road transport and control systems are underway.
A plan has been taken up to install directional sign-signal and kilometre posts in 8,100 spots.
The minister said steps have been taken to gradually upgrade all national highways into four lanes or above in order to modernize the country's road transport system.
"In this respect, 509km national highway has been upgraded into four lanes while upgradation of another 507km highway is going on," he added.
Kamal said: "The present government is giving top priority to the railway sector in order to make railway an economical, safe, and environment-friendly mode of transport.
"For the overall development of railway, the government has undertaken a 30-year master plan spanning from 2016 to 2045 at a cost of Tk553,662 crore."
"Development of necessary infrastructure and facilities at sea ports are also in progress. A plan for construction of the Bay-Terminal at the Chittagong port at a cost of Tk17,000 crore has been undertaken.
"The handling capacity of the Chittagong port will be enhanced in the next financial year from 2.8 million TEUs to 3 million TEUs,” the minister added.
Besides, the construction of the third terminal at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is in progress to enhance its passenger handling capacity to 12 million, he said, adding works for the site selection and feasibility study on the construction of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib International Airport is in progress.
The budget for the communication infrastructure sector was Tk53,081 crore in the last fiscal.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/busine...ovlRUQm76An4ikPgwG_kKP6018QBBnXV7ZBcMn4G-VQmc
The Ronin
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Bangladesh sees record growth in FDI, trend likely to continue
A UN trade report says FDI inflows to Bangladesh have risen to a record level of $3.6 billion
Bangladesh has registered a record level of growth in foreign direct investment (FDI)—while investment inflows to South Asia increased by a modest 3.5% in 2018—according to a United Nations (UN) trade report.
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) World Investment Report 2019 was released last Wednesday.
The report says FDI flows to Bangladesh rose by 68% to a record level of $3.6 billion.
“This was driven by significant investments in power generation and in labour-intensive industries such as ready-made garments; as well as the $1.5 billion acquisition of United Dhaka Tobacco by Japan Tobacco,” it says.
FDI to India—which has historically accounted for 70% to 80% of inflows to South Asia—increased by 6% to $42 billion. Investment was strong in manufacturing, communication, and financial services – the top three industry recipients.
Pakistan, the fourth largest recipient of FDI in the sub-region, registered a 27% decrease in investment to $2.4 billion.
“The prospects for FDI flows to the region in 2019 are moderately optimistic, thanks to a favourable economic outlook and ongoing efforts to improve the investment climate in several major economies,” said James Zhan, director of UNCTAD’s division on investment and enterprise.
In Bangladesh, the gains were mostly the result of a $1.5 billion mergers and acquisitions (M&A) deal in tobacco, and new investments in power generation. Also, reinvested earnings in the country—mainly by multi-national enterprises (MNEs)—in banking, textiles, and wearing apparel, more than tripled to $1.3 billion.
The report notes explosive growth in the use of special economic zones (SEZs) as key policy instruments for the attraction of investment for industrial development. More than 1,000 have been developed worldwide in the last five years, and by UNCTAD’s count at least 500 more are in the pipeline. India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan—together—have more than 200 zones in the pipeline.
As an instrument to support structural transformation, these zones are designed to attract specific industries—such as manufacturing, natural resource processing, or technology-intensive industries and services— to support countries’ structural transformation.
However, the report also cautions against costly failures in SEZs for developing economies like Bangladesh.
One of the big challenges, according to the report, is the new industrial revolution, which could erode the importance of low labour costs, the traditional competitive edge of most SEZs.“SEZs will need to anticipate trends in their targeted industries and adapt,” it says.
Economists and policymakers have lauded Bangladesh’s impressive economic growth and projected graduation from a least developed country to a developing country by 2024.
However, they have also suggested improvements to its business environment and reforms in investment laws and regulations to maintain the current growth trajectory.
The World Bank’s Doing Business report for 2019 lists Bangladesh as 176th out of 190 countries for ease of doing business.
International bodies—including the United States—have repeatedly urged Bangladesh to continue progress on labour rights and work place safety in line with International Labour Organization standards.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangla...UAXPBQI3-wr-AuY7grmzIOKkrw39XuM7Pw6KZRpHmT9zg
A UN trade report says FDI inflows to Bangladesh have risen to a record level of $3.6 billion
Bangladesh has registered a record level of growth in foreign direct investment (FDI)—while investment inflows to South Asia increased by a modest 3.5% in 2018—according to a United Nations (UN) trade report.
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) World Investment Report 2019 was released last Wednesday.
The report says FDI flows to Bangladesh rose by 68% to a record level of $3.6 billion.
“This was driven by significant investments in power generation and in labour-intensive industries such as ready-made garments; as well as the $1.5 billion acquisition of United Dhaka Tobacco by Japan Tobacco,” it says.
FDI to India—which has historically accounted for 70% to 80% of inflows to South Asia—increased by 6% to $42 billion. Investment was strong in manufacturing, communication, and financial services – the top three industry recipients.
Pakistan, the fourth largest recipient of FDI in the sub-region, registered a 27% decrease in investment to $2.4 billion.
“The prospects for FDI flows to the region in 2019 are moderately optimistic, thanks to a favourable economic outlook and ongoing efforts to improve the investment climate in several major economies,” said James Zhan, director of UNCTAD’s division on investment and enterprise.
In Bangladesh, the gains were mostly the result of a $1.5 billion mergers and acquisitions (M&A) deal in tobacco, and new investments in power generation. Also, reinvested earnings in the country—mainly by multi-national enterprises (MNEs)—in banking, textiles, and wearing apparel, more than tripled to $1.3 billion.
The report notes explosive growth in the use of special economic zones (SEZs) as key policy instruments for the attraction of investment for industrial development. More than 1,000 have been developed worldwide in the last five years, and by UNCTAD’s count at least 500 more are in the pipeline. India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan—together—have more than 200 zones in the pipeline.
As an instrument to support structural transformation, these zones are designed to attract specific industries—such as manufacturing, natural resource processing, or technology-intensive industries and services— to support countries’ structural transformation.
However, the report also cautions against costly failures in SEZs for developing economies like Bangladesh.
One of the big challenges, according to the report, is the new industrial revolution, which could erode the importance of low labour costs, the traditional competitive edge of most SEZs.“SEZs will need to anticipate trends in their targeted industries and adapt,” it says.
Economists and policymakers have lauded Bangladesh’s impressive economic growth and projected graduation from a least developed country to a developing country by 2024.
However, they have also suggested improvements to its business environment and reforms in investment laws and regulations to maintain the current growth trajectory.
The World Bank’s Doing Business report for 2019 lists Bangladesh as 176th out of 190 countries for ease of doing business.
International bodies—including the United States—have repeatedly urged Bangladesh to continue progress on labour rights and work place safety in line with International Labour Organization standards.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangla...UAXPBQI3-wr-AuY7grmzIOKkrw39XuM7Pw6KZRpHmT9zg
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Walton launches RAM, memory cards
20 June 2019, 5:35:44
Walton has lunched a number of new accessories in the local market that include RAM and Micro SD cards. The high quality accessories with attractive designs are now available at all Walton Plaza and distributors’ showrooms across the country beside Agargaon’s IDB in the capital at affordable prices.
Walton Computer Products’ CEO Engineer Liakat Ali said that initially 3 models of DDR4 RAM were released in the market. Each RAM is of 4 gigabytes. Of these, 2 models of RAM are available for desktop computers pricing Tk2,300 and Tk2,400. Their data transfer bandwidth is 19,200 and 21,300 megabytes per/sec respectively. Another model of RAM is designed for laptops and notebooks with 19,200 data transfer bandwidth per/ sec. It costs Tk 2,200 only. 2-year warranty will be given to all models of Walton RAM.
The new Walton accessories include 4 models of memory cards. The capacity of these cards with high speed data transfer capability ranges from 16 to 128 gigabytes. These 10/U1 speed class cards can be used on any device with TF card slot. Waterproof and sustainable Walton micro SD cards function in zero to 70 degree Celsius temperature.
Walton’s 16 GB memory card will cost only Tk. 350 while 32 GB can be bought at Tk. 495, 64 GB at Tk. 995 and 128 GB at Tk. 1,690.
Besides, WiFi router is going to be added to Walton’s technology accessories very soon.
According to Walton Computer Department sources, there are currently 23 models of laptops, 13 models of desktops and 4 models of monitors available in market. Besides, Walton’s computer accessories have various models of gaming and standard keyboards and mouse, pen drives and earphones.
Meanwhile, under Walton Digital Campaign Season-4, customers, who will buy any Walton brand laptop from any Walton plaza, distributor outlet or E-plaza, are likely to get gold edition symbolic cricket bat-ball with the autograph of Bangladesh National Cricket Team ODI captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, also the brand ambassador of Walton. The offer will continue until July 14.
20 June 2019, 5:35:44
Walton has lunched a number of new accessories in the local market that include RAM and Micro SD cards. The high quality accessories with attractive designs are now available at all Walton Plaza and distributors’ showrooms across the country beside Agargaon’s IDB in the capital at affordable prices.
Walton Computer Products’ CEO Engineer Liakat Ali said that initially 3 models of DDR4 RAM were released in the market. Each RAM is of 4 gigabytes. Of these, 2 models of RAM are available for desktop computers pricing Tk2,300 and Tk2,400. Their data transfer bandwidth is 19,200 and 21,300 megabytes per/sec respectively. Another model of RAM is designed for laptops and notebooks with 19,200 data transfer bandwidth per/ sec. It costs Tk 2,200 only. 2-year warranty will be given to all models of Walton RAM.
The new Walton accessories include 4 models of memory cards. The capacity of these cards with high speed data transfer capability ranges from 16 to 128 gigabytes. These 10/U1 speed class cards can be used on any device with TF card slot. Waterproof and sustainable Walton micro SD cards function in zero to 70 degree Celsius temperature.
Walton’s 16 GB memory card will cost only Tk. 350 while 32 GB can be bought at Tk. 495, 64 GB at Tk. 995 and 128 GB at Tk. 1,690.
Besides, WiFi router is going to be added to Walton’s technology accessories very soon.
According to Walton Computer Department sources, there are currently 23 models of laptops, 13 models of desktops and 4 models of monitors available in market. Besides, Walton’s computer accessories have various models of gaming and standard keyboards and mouse, pen drives and earphones.
Meanwhile, under Walton Digital Campaign Season-4, customers, who will buy any Walton brand laptop from any Walton plaza, distributor outlet or E-plaza, are likely to get gold edition symbolic cricket bat-ball with the autograph of Bangladesh National Cricket Team ODI captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, also the brand ambassador of Walton. The offer will continue until July 14.
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