Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud bin Harun, Executive Chairman of BIDA and BEZA, announced that the recent investment summit attracted preliminary proposals worth BDT 3,100 crore. While the government spent around BDT 1.5 crore, partners contributed BDT 3.5 crore. Ashiq noted that the summit should not be evaluated by cost alone and emphasized that many deals were built on prior negotiations. Delegates from 50 countries participated, with foreign investors making up 58% of attendees. Meanwhile, ten proposed economic zones have been canceled.

The US dollar has dropped to its lowest value in three years, driven by global market instability and new tariffs imposed by the US government. According to the US Dollar Index and Forbes, the value fell to 99.01, marking an 8% decline over the past year. The steep drop followed President Donald Trump’s announcement of unprecedented import tariffs on dozens of countries. While the tariffs were later suspended for most nations, markets across the US, Europe, and Asia experienced significant disruptions.

Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur has revealed that the country’s banking sector has become a major victim of money laundering. Over the past 15 years, approximately Tk 5 trillion (500,000 crore) has been misappropriated. He said major business groups and families have laundered Tk 250,000 to 300,000 crore abroad. One large group from Chattogram alone siphoned off nearly Tk 150,000 crore. Dr. Mansur assured that action will be taken upon receiving concrete allegations. Despite the losses, he said the country’s stock market and foreign reserves remain stable, exports are increasing, inflation is at a manageable level, and regular LNG imports are helping maintain stable electricity production.

Following the U.S. decision to impose a 125% tariff on Chinese goods, China is ramping up engagement with major trade blocs. Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao held virtual meetings with EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and Malaysian Trade Minister Tengku Zafrul. Both sides expressed eagerness to initiate negotiations on market access and electric vehicle pricing, and to redirect exports previously bound for the U.S. toward Europe. China reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with ASEAN and all trade partners.

Foreign and local investors attending a four-day investment summit in Dhaka were introduced to the government’s roadmap for Bangladesh in 2035. Political parties also participated. BIDA reported that the summit helped establish a long-term investment pipeline, which is expected to significantly increase foreign direct investment. According to Nahian Rahman, over 450 foreign investors attended and left with a positive impression of Bangladesh. However, it may take 18 to 24 months for these investments to materialize.

Bangladesh’s Trade Advisor has downplayed concerns about India’s cancellation of transshipment, stating that it will not cause significant problems for Bangladesh. He mentioned that the focus should be on enhancing domestic capacity, and that India’s sudden decision would not affect Bangladesh’s trade severely. He emphasized efforts to address infrastructural issues and rising costs while working to increase commercial capabilities and overcome any obstacles.

Kiak Sung, founder of the Korean Export Processing Zone (EPZ), stated that Bangladesh, currently the world’s second-largest garment exporter among single countries, is well-positioned to claim the top spot. He emphasized that achieving this goal requires strategic reforms, increased use of technology, and the development of in-house production facilities for hand-spun yarn.

Sung highlighted the importance of policy support and the need for more bonded warehouses to ensure the swift availability of raw materials. This, he said, will enable manufacturers to produce and export garments more efficiently. He also praised the Bangladesh government’s proactive response during the temporary suspension of tariff policies under the Trump-era trade regulations.

Dr. Mumtazur Rahman Daud, CEO of Bangla US LLC, announced at an investment summit that the company is investing $1.6 billion (approximately Tk 2000 crore) to build an international-standard hospital in Bangladesh by 2026. The project also includes plans for a nursing university and industrial facilities, aiming to significantly enhance the country’s healthcare and industrial sectors.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a three-month suspension of retaliatory tariffs on most countries while increasing tariffs on Chinese imports to 125%.

On Truth Social, Trump wrote: “Due to China’s disrespect for global markets, we are imposing a 125% tariff on their goods, effective immediately.” U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent praised Trump’s bold move, stating that countries willing to negotiate will be rewarded.

Following the announcement, U.S. stock indices surged. Notably, Trump made this decision shortly after receiving a letter from Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, requesting a temporary suspension of the tariffs.

Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur led a delegation to London from March 17 to 21 as part of a high-profile diplomatic initiative to recover laundered assets and participate in global workshops on financial inclusion and interconnectivity.

As head of the asset recovery task force, Governor Mansur was the keynote guest at a meeting held at Portcullis House, UK Parliament. The event was attended by UK MPs Jo Powell, Rupa Huq, Baroness Uddin, and former Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk.

During the meeting, Dr. Mansur called for stronger cooperation in recovering stolen wealth and urged the UK government to impose sanctions on those involved in money laundering. He also met with Catherine West, Minister for Asia at the UK Foreign Office, expressing gratitude for the UK’s support. The visit included engagements with legal professionals and media representatives to build momentum around the issue.

In a sharp escalation of trade tensions, China has announced an 84% tariff on all American goods, effective from Thursday. This move comes in retaliation to the United States imposing a 104% tariff on Chinese imports, which Beijing has described as “oppressive.”

The Chinese Ministry of Finance stated that the new tariffs are a necessary response to the U.S.‘s aggressive trade policies. Analysts believe this development marks the beginning of another round of trade war between the world’s two largest economies—raising concerns about potential negative impacts on the global economy.

Despite the escalation, China has expressed its willingness to engage in dialogue with the U.S. government to resolve the conflict. In a white paper released on Wednesday, Beijing emphasized its consistent efforts to maintain mutually beneficial trade relations with Washington. The document acknowledges that trade disputes are “normal” but stresses the importance of safeguarding China’s national interests.

In a recent interview, Press Secretary Shafiqur Alam emphasized that a surge in foreign direct investment (FDI) could lead to an employment boom in Bangladesh. Citing Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, he noted the country’s urgent need for large-scale FDI to create massive employment opportunities.

“We need to knock on every door and say, ‘We are ready—come and invest,’” he said. Shafiqur added that wherever he travels—be it China, the US, New York, or Dublin—he presents Bangladesh as an attractive investment destination.

“If this happens, there will be a flood of jobs in the country,” he said, stressing that these jobs must be quality positions, not ineffective or low-grade ones. He also pointed out the need for stronger infrastructure and logistical support to accommodate such growth and mentioned that establishing Bangladesh as a global manufacturing hub is a dream of the Chief Adviser.

Faiz Ahmad Tayyab, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, has requested that the ‘March for Gaza’ rally scheduled for April 12 be postponed by a week. He cited the Bangladesh Investment Summit taking place from April 9, with over 600 investors from 50 countries visiting various companies, EPZs, high-tech parks, and startups. He urged organizers to consider the international presence and adjust the program accordingly. He also reiterated the Chief Adviser’s condemnation of Israeli aggression.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025, Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus stated that Bangladesh possesses groundbreaking ideas capable of transforming the world. “There are immense business opportunities here,” he said. “These ventures are not just beneficial for Bangladesh but can create global impact.” He cited microcredit as an example, which started in a small Bangladeshi village and eventually became a major financial industry in the United States. Dr. Yunus became emotional while recalling the Liberation War. Awards were presented to Walton (domestic investor), bKash (foreign investor), Square Pharmaceuticals, and Square Fabrics for their contributions. Korean Export Processing Zone Chairman Ki-Hak Sung received honorary citizenship under a special category.

Starting Wednesday, the United States is enforcing a 104% tariff on a range of Chinese goods, following an announcement by former President Donald Trump. Earlier, on April 2, a 34% tariff was imposed, adding to a previous 20% duty. In retaliation, China announced a 34% tariff on U.S. goods last Friday. Trump warned of an additional 50% tariff if China does not retract its decision. China’s response measures take effect from Thursday.