Bangladesh is projected to remain the world’s top cotton importer in MY2025-26, with imports reaching 8.5 million bales, ahead of Vietnam’s 8 million, according to the USDA. This surge aligns with a 10.86% year-on-year rise in Bangladesh’s RMG exports to $30.25 billion in the first 10 months of FY25. Global cotton consumption is forecasted to hit a five-year high of 118.1 million bales, while global trade is expected to rise by 2.3 million bales to 44.8 million. Bangladesh’s increased US cotton imports aim to reduce the bilateral trade gap and support its bid for duty-free access to the US market, where its goods face a 15.62% average tariff. Local production meets only 2% of Bangladesh’s annual demand of 9 million bales, prompting calls to raise this to 20%. Falling energy costs, a weaker dollar, and stable prices are expected to benefit Bangladeshi millers amid rising global demand and shifting trade flows.

The BTRC’s draft telecom policy proposes consolidating over 20 licence types into three—NICSP, ICSP, and ANSP—aiming to simplify regulations and attract foreign investment. However, experts warn it may entrench monopolies, as it permits up to 100% foreign ownership in ANSP, 70% in NICSP, and 49% in ICSP without limiting cross-ownership, enabling dominant players like Axiata, Telenor, and Veon to hold stakes across all categories. While phasing out intermediaries like IGW and IIG is a progressive step, delays in implementation risk entrenching current power dynamics. Notably, Summit Communications’ 70% sale to foreign firms aligns with the proposed cap, raising concerns about policy bias. Mobile operators may also gain unfair advantage in broadband markets under vague “enterprise solution” provisions. Critics argue that lack of strict cross-ownership rules and foreign equity caps may deter genuine investment, distort competition, and marginalize local entrepreneurs. The BTRC promises clarifications in the final version following public feedback.

The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has directed the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to block all websites and social media handles linked to the Awami League and its affiliated bodies, citing the Cyber Security Ordinance, 2025. This action follows the government’s May 12 decision to ban AL’s activities, including online presence, during ongoing trials at the International Crimes Tribunal. The Election Commission has also suspended the AL’s political registration. The NCSA requested BTRC to ask platforms like Meta, X, YouTube, and TikTok to take down related content. A list of URLs and social handles has already been shared with these platforms. However, while Bangladesh can block websites, it must rely on global tech companies to act on social media content. This move is framed under national security, religious harmony, and public order provisions, with BTRC confirming that requests were sent to relevant platforms on Tuesday night for urgent compliance.