Global maritime trade is facing renewed instability as the Middle East war and a severe fuel crisis disrupt shipping routes. Main line operators are preparing to raise freight charges again from April 1, potentially increasing Bangladesh’s import and export costs. Container rates to Europe have already risen sharply, while connections on Middle East routes have nearly collapsed, with limited vessels charging several times higher rates. Freight for a 40-foot container from Chattogram to Europe has climbed from about $1,600–$1,700 in February to around $2,400 in March.

Shipping companies cite rising global fuel prices and war risks as reasons for the new rate adjustments, with expectations of a further 25–30 percent increase in April. Industry leaders warn that the surge will directly affect Bangladesh’s export sector, particularly the ready-made garment industry, as existing orders were priced under earlier freight structures. Freight forwarders also report a 20 percent rise in bulk cargo rates and growing risks in the Red Sea and Hormuz Strait.

Experts urge the government to closely monitor shipping line pricing and take measures to mitigate the impact on trade and the broader economy.

The government has directed the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to investigate the operations of three private submarine cable companies—Summit Communications Limited, Metacore Subcom Limited, and CdNet Communications—and the legality of their jointly formed consortium. The directive, issued by the Posts and Telecommunications Division, seeks a detailed report on whether the consortium was formed with prior approval and if it complies with licensing conditions and government guidelines.

According to the ministry’s letter, each company received separate submarine cable licenses in September 2022 to strengthen Bangladesh’s internet infrastructure and reduce state monopoly in the sector. The three firms later formed the “Bangladesh Private Cable System” consortium to establish a 1,300-kilometer submarine cable link with Singapore. Officials from Bangladesh Submarine Cables PLC (BSCCPLC) have expressed concern that the consortium may have violated licensing rules by installing fewer fiber pairs than required and by planning to connect through a branch cable mostly located in Myanmar’s shallow waters.

The government aims to ensure compliance with licensing terms for national security and sectoral discipline. If irregularities are found, authorities may take action against the involved companies.

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has reinstated the commercial operation license of First Communications Limited (Firstcom BD), a company owned by controversial businessman S Alam. The company had been shut down in December 2024 due to serious allegations of irregularities, unpaid dues, and financial corruption. Despite owing significant amounts to both the International Gateway Operators Forum (IOS) and BTRC, the regulator lifted the operational cap on December 2, 2025, after the company paid only half of its dues to BTRC. On March 16, 2026, BTRC granted full permission for the company to resume operations.

The decision has sparked intense debate within the telecommunications sector. Industry stakeholders argue that BTRC violated its own May 2025 directive requiring full payment of dues by July 31, 2025, before participation in new network topologies. IOS operators rejected Firstcom BD’s proposals to repay dues in installments, expressing concern that the company might again default as it had in the past.

Sector insiders warn that BTRC’s move could undermine regulatory neutrality and discourage compliant operators, especially as the Anti-Corruption Commission had previously secured a court order freezing assets linked to the company’s controlling shareholders.

A report by Amar Desh on March 31, 2026, reveals that substantial amounts of money are being transferred from Bangladesh to India through both legal and illegal means. Official remittance data from Bangladesh Bank shows annual transfers of around USD 50–60 million, but experts believe the actual figure is several times higher due to undeclared payments to Indian workers in Bangladesh. The report also notes that about 50,000 Indian nationals currently live in Bangladesh, many without valid permits, and that authorities have identified thousands of illegal residents during recent police operations.

The Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) has issued over 8,000 new work permits and extended more than 13,000 since 2018–19. Officials acknowledge that foreign workers are hired due to skill shortages, though concerns remain about unreported salaries and tax compliance. The National Board of Revenue (NBR) audits foreign taxpayers but faces limitations in verifying undeclared income.

The report further highlights that Bangladesh’s trade deficit with India exceeds USD 9 billion annually, while travel and medical expenses by Bangladeshis in India have also contributed to significant outflows of foreign currency.

Economy and finance ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations have pledged to take all necessary measures to stabilize global energy markets as the US-Israeli war on Iran disrupts oil supplies. Following a teleconference organized by France, which currently holds the G7 presidency, the ministers and central bankers issued a joint statement emphasizing their readiness to act in coordination with partners to preserve energy market stability and security. The meeting came as Iran’s retaliatory attacks on Gulf oil producers and its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz pushed Brent crude prices above $116 a barrel.

The G7, comprising the United States, Canada, Japan, Britain, France, Germany, and Italy, urged countries to avoid unjustified export restrictions on oil and gas. They also noted the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) recommendation to manage demand and its earlier decision to release 400 million barrels from strategic reserves. Japanese Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama warned that prolonged supply disruptions could harm global growth, while British Chancellor Rachel Reeves called for a swift resolution to the Middle East conflict.

The G7 statement added that central banks remain committed to maintaining price stability as rising energy costs threaten to fuel inflation worldwide.

Bangladesh Bank has announced a special auction of 91-day treasury bills to raise Tk 5,000 crore for the government. The auction is scheduled for April 1, according to a senior central bank official. The initiative comes amid increased liquidity in the banking sector, with banks recently depositing around Tk 11,500 crore through the Standing Deposit Facility.

Central bank sources said the government typically requires large sums of money toward the end of the fiscal year. As funds are currently available from banks at a cost lower than the policy rate, the government is taking advantage of this situation to borrow for 91 days. Officials clarified that the move is not due to debt pressure but rather an effort to manage excess liquidity in the banking system.

The banking sector is currently in a strong liquidity position, supported by rising remittance inflows and slower private investment due to the Middle East crisis. Sources added that upcoming grants expected by the end of June will help repay the borrowed funds easily, balancing both government financing needs and liquidity management.

Bangladesh’s Minister of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud, told Parliament on Monday that certain groups are smuggling fuel through border areas. In a statement under Rule 300, he said that the tendency to purchase fuel beyond actual need has artificially created a sense of crisis. The minister assured that the government has taken timely measures to maintain normal supply and that there is currently no shortage of fuel.

According to Mahmud, the country has a stock of 218,000 metric tons of diesel, with supply systems operating normally. The government plans to import 50,000 metric tons of octane in April and expects an additional 30,000 tons from domestic sources, enough to meet demand for two more months. He noted that hoarding behavior, rather than actual scarcity, has become a major issue.

The minister emphasized that despite global challenges, the government has not raised fuel prices and continues to provide subsidies for public benefit. He urged citizens to avoid unnecessary fuel purchases and wastage, stressing that collective effort is essential to overcome any global crisis.

Bangladesh’s Minister of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud, told the national parliament on Monday that the country currently has no fuel shortage. He stated that fuel supply has been increased compared to the same period last year, ensuring greater availability across the country. The minister emphasized that the government is working tirelessly to maintain public comfort and stability in energy supply.

Mahmud noted that the world is going through a period of instability due to international conflicts and geopolitical tensions, which have created uncertainty in global energy transportation and supply. He said that despite these global challenges, Bangladesh has taken timely and appropriate measures under the Prime Minister’s supervision to safeguard domestic energy security.

According to the minister, when the current government took office on February 17, the diesel reserve stood at 206,000 tons, which has since risen to 218,000 tons. Between February 17 and March 29, 482,000 tons of diesel were sold, yet reserves still increased, indicating effective import planning and management.

Electricity, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud and State Minister Anindya Islam Amit held a meeting with officials and employees of the Rural Electrification Board (REB) on Monday at the Brigadier Sabihuddin Ahmed Auditorium of the organization. The meeting was chaired by REB Chairman Major General S M Zia-ul-Azim, with Power Division Secretary Farzana Momtaz also in attendance.

During the session, REB representatives presented ongoing activities and achievements in electricity distribution, noting the board’s establishment in 1977 to expand rural electrification. The minister directed the REB chairman to resolve existing issues between the board and rural electricity cooperatives promptly and emphasized that no initiative would be taken to weaken the institution. Instead, efforts would focus on ensuring reliable and quality electricity services.

Secretary Farzana Momtaz suggested measures to improve service quality, including installing fault locators for quick power restoration after storms, reducing distribution line length to minimize system loss, and promoting solar pumps to save fuel. She also instructed submission of new project proposals to develop a modern and sustainable distribution system.

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanom Rita said the government aims to transform Biman Bangladesh Airlines into a profitable and passenger-friendly organization through collective efforts. She made the remarks on Monday at a views-exchange meeting with the airline’s officials and employees at Balaka in Kurmitola, where State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat was also present.

Addressing the staff, the minister emphasized that their salaries come from passengers’ payments, urging them to treat passengers with due respect. She mentioned plans to link promotions with performance monitoring, fill vacant posts quickly, and improve salary and benefits to satisfactory levels. The state minister added that the current government is people-oriented and democratic, aiming to make Biman a model institution.

The meeting discussed short- and long-term plans for the airline’s development, including adding new aircraft, increasing wheelchairs for elderly and special-needs passengers, and strengthening connections between domestic and international flights. After the meeting, the ministers inspected the Biman Flight Catering Centre to check cleanliness standards.

Bangladesh and New Zealand have agreed to explore a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to expand trade and investment ties. The proposal came during a meeting between Bangladesh’s Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir and New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Investment Todd McClay on the sidelines of the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference in Yaoundé, Cameroon. A press release from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Commerce confirmed the discussion, which emphasized enhancing trade relations and sending a positive signal to investors.

During the meeting, Minister Muktadir highlighted Bangladesh’s goal of deeper integration into the global value chain and its efforts to foster a business-friendly environment. He reiterated Bangladesh’s interest in joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and sought New Zealand’s support. McClay praised Bangladesh’s geopolitical importance and economic potential, assuring cooperation with other RCEP members to facilitate Bangladesh’s inclusion.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening friendly relations and exploring new areas of economic collaboration. McClay accepted an invitation to visit Bangladesh later this year to continue discussions on trade and investment opportunities.

The government has directed the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to investigate the legality of operations by three private submarine cable companies—Summit Communications Limited, Metacore Subcom Limited, and CdNet Communications—and their jointly formed consortium, Bangladesh Private Cable System. The directive, issued by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, seeks a detailed report on whether the consortium was formed with prior approval and if it complies with licensing and government guidelines.

The three companies received individual submarine cable licenses in September 2022 to break the state monopoly in the sector. They later formed a consortium to establish a 1,300-kilometer submarine cable link with Singapore to meet growing internet demand. However, officials have raised concerns that the consortium may have violated licensing rules and posed digital security risks.

Bangladesh Submarine Cables PLC’s managing director criticized the consortium, alleging non-compliance with fiber installation requirements and potential security risks due to the planned cable’s proximity to Myanmar’s waters. The government indicated that licenses could be revoked if violations are confirmed.

British officials have warned that global food prices could rise due to the economic impact of the ongoing war involving Iran. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is scheduled to meet business leaders at Downing Street on Monday to discuss the issue. The warning follows Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which has already driven up oil prices and raised concerns about fertilizer costs, according to a maritime analyst.

Lars Jensen, founder and CEO of shipping consultancy Vespucci Maritime, told BBC Radio 4’s Today program that 20 to 30 percent of the world’s seaborne fertilizer originates from the Persian Gulf region. He cautioned that this disruption could cause food prices to increase rapidly, particularly in poorer countries. The UK’s National Farmers Union also warned that higher fuel and fertilizer costs would inevitably push up domestic food prices.

The discussions at Downing Street are expected to focus on mitigating the potential economic fallout and ensuring stability in the UK’s food supply chain.

Farmers in Amtali upazila of Barguna district are facing financial losses despite a bumper watermelon harvest this year. The cultivated area exceeded the target of 4,249 hectares, reaching over 4,309 hectares, according to the local agriculture office. However, low market prices have left many growers disappointed, with watermelons weighing 5 to 7 kilograms selling for only 120 to 150 taka each. Only those who managed to bring their produce to market early have seen some profit.

Local farmers, including Mamun Molla of Patakata village, reported that despite excellent yields, they are unable to recover production and land lease costs due to weak demand from wholesalers. Agricultural officer Md. Russel stated that favorable weather conditions had raised expectations of earning up to 2.5 billion taka from watermelon cultivation in Amtali alone, but the lack of fair prices now threatens that projection.

Upazila Executive Officer Muhammad Zafar Arif Chowdhury urged wholesalers from across the country to visit Amtali and purchase watermelons, emphasizing the region’s suitability for large-scale commercial cultivation and the administration’s continued support for local farmers.

A severe fuel shortage has hit Rupsa upazila in Khulna, causing major disruptions for residents and transport workers. Two local fuel stations, Monir Uddin Fuel Station and Kazi Sobhan Pump, are struggling to maintain adequate supply. Long queues of motorcycles, private cars, and other vehicles have formed, with many drivers waiting two to three hours only to receive limited amounts of fuel worth 100 to 200 taka. In some cases, supplies run out after serving a few hundred vehicles, leaving others without fuel.

The manager of Kazi Sobhan Pump said they are receiving very small quantities of fuel from the company, far below local demand, forcing them to ration distribution. Frustrated customers reported losing valuable time and income due to the shortage. Some locals suspect that a syndicate might be behind the crisis, though no clear information has emerged. Meanwhile, fuel is reportedly available at retail shops for 200 to 220 taka per liter after bargaining.

The situation has raised concerns about supply chain irregularities and the lack of transparency in fuel distribution in the area.