Bangladesh's economy last week revolved around a new five-year plan for post-LDC challenges, proposed changes to margin loan rules, mandatory food safety registration, a gas supply disruption, and a draft overhaul of civil aviation rules.

The following is a recap of those major stories as covered by Star Business.

Govt adopts 5-year plan for post-LDC challenges (July 20)

The government has adopted a new five-year plan under the WTO's Enhanced Integrated Framework to boost business competitiveness and address post-LDC graduation challenges. The project prioritises 12 key reforms aimed at enhancing the ease of doing business and tariff liberalisation.

BSEC proposes easier margin loans even for low-dividend shares (July 21)

The Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission has proposed draft amendments to ease margin loan rules, aiming to boost market liquidity and trading volume. However, market experts caution that easier borrowing options could encourage riskier investments and heighten market volatility.

All food businesses now need safety registration (July 22)

Under new regulations, all food supply chain businesses must obtain registration or a licence from the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority to ensure safety oversight. However, industry leaders warn that the rules will increase compliance costs and administrative burdens.

FSRU glitch cuts gas supply by 17% (July 23)

A technical glitch at a floating LNG terminal has reduced national gas supply by 17 percent, disrupting power generation, industrial output, and CNG filling. Government officials assured that sufficient fuel reserves exist and efforts are underway to restore operations.

Govt set to replace 42-year-old civil aviation rules (July 24)

The government has drafted the Civil Aviation Rules, 2026, to replace 1984 regulations, introducing guidelines for commercial drone use, noise certifications, carbon emission reduction plans, and cybersecurity. However, industry insiders warn that several proposed provisions conflict with ICAO standards.