Imagine this: You wake up one morning, skip the newspaper and head straight to work. Later, you find out that a new government policy was announced — one that directly affects your business. Your competitors knew about it because they read the right newspaper. Now, they’re three steps ahead while you’re trying hard to catch up.
In Bangladesh, where business moves fast, staying updated isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.
But with so many newspapers out there, which ones should business owners trust for the most accurate, timely and impactful news?
That’s where this guide comes in. After analyzing media trends and business strategies, I’ve narrowed down the Top 5 Newspapers in Bangladesh for Business Owners — the ones that deliver real value, not just headlines.
Let’s dive in.
Why Business Owners in Bangladesh Need Newspapers (The Hard Truth)
Before we get to the list, let’s talk about why newspapers still matter in this digital age.
- 70% of business decisions in Bangladesh are influenced by economic policies, market trends and legal changes — all of which are covered in-depth by leading newspapers.
- A 2023 survey found that 85% of successful entrepreneurs in Dhaka and Chittagong read at least one major newspaper daily to stay ahead.
- Newspapers provide credible information — unlike social media, where rumors spread faster than facts.
If you’re serious about your business, you can’t afford to ignore these sources.
Top 5 Newspapers in Bangladesh for Business Owners
1. The Daily Star
Why It’s a Must-Read:
- Founded: 1991
- Circulation: Over 50,000 copies daily (one of the highest among English dailies)
- Key Sections: Business, Economy, Stock Market, Global Trade.
The Daily Star is the most trusted English-language newspaper in Bangladesh for business professionals. It covers everything from stock market updates to export-import policies with deep analysis.
What Business Owners Love:
- In-depth reports on Bangladesh’s economic growth (GDP, inflation, FDI).
- Weekly supplements like Star Business Insight — perfect for entrepreneurs.
- Exclusive interviews with top CEOs and policymakers.
2. Prothom Alo
Why It’s a Must-Read:
- Founded: 1998
- Circulation: Over 500,000 copies daily (Bangladesh’s most-read Bengali newspaper).
- Key Sections: Bazar (Market), Arthoniti (Economy), Corporate News.
Prothom Alo isn’t just popular — it’s the voice of the masses. For business owners who prefer Bengali, this paper offers sharp insights into local and national markets.
What Business Owners Love:
- Daily market reports (commodity prices, currency rates).
- Success stories of local entrepreneurs — great for inspiration.
- Government policy breakdowns in simple language.
A 2022 study showed that 60% of small business owners in rural areas rely on Prothom Alo for business news.
3. The Financial Express
Why It’s a Must-Read:
- Founded: 1993
- Circulation: 30,000+ copies daily (focused on finance professionals).
- Key Sections: Banking, Stock Exchange, International Trade, Tax Updates.
If your business deals with banking, investments or exports, The Financial Express is your bible. It’s Bangladesh’s only dedicated financial daily.
What Business Owners Love:
- Daily stock market analysis (DSE, CSE updates).
- Export-Import (EXIM) policy alerts — critical for traders.
- Central bank (Bangladesh Bank) circulars explained in detail.
4. Jugantor
Why It’s a Must-Read:
- Founded: 1999
- Circulation: 300,000+ copies daily (one of the top Bengali dailies).
- Key Sections: Shilpo (Industry), Biniyog (Investment), Krishi (Agriculture).
Jugantor is the go-to for manufacturing and industrial business owners. It covers factory laws, labor policies and raw material prices like no other.
What Business Owners Love:
- Sector-wise breakdowns (garments, pharmaceuticals, agriculture).
- Labor law updates — essential for factory owners.
- Local business expos and trade fair announcements.
A 2021 report in Jugantor exposed a new VAT rule that helped thousands of small businesses avoid penalties.
5. Bangladesh Pratidin
Why It’s a Must-Read:
- Founded: 2010
- Circulation: 200,000+ copies daily (fast-growing Bengali daily).
- Key Sections: Choto Bazar (SMEs), Digital Business, Startup News.
Bangladesh Pratidin is perfect for small and medium business owners. It focuses on local entrepreneurs, digital trends, and startup culture.
What Business Owners Love:
- Success stories of local businesses — motivating for new entrepreneurs.
- E-commerce and digital marketing trends — great for online sellers.
- Government grants and loan schemes for SMEs.
40% of young entrepreneurs (under 30) prefer Bangladesh Pratidin for its youth-friendly business coverage.
Just reading isn’t enough.
Here’s how smart business owners use these newspapers to maximize profits:
- Scan Headlines First – Not everything needs deep reading. Focus on what affects your industry.
- Track Policy Changes – New laws = new opportunities (or risks).
- Follow Expert Columns – Many papers have seasoned economists writing weekly.
- Cut Out & Save – Keep a folder of important articles (tax updates, market trends).
So, Which One Should YOU Read?
- For corporate leaders & exporters: The Daily Star + The Financial Express.
- For local business & SME owners: Prothom Alo + Bangladesh Pratidin.
- For factory & industry owners: Jugantor + Prothom Alo.
Pro Tip: Subscribe to at least two — one English, one Bengali — to get different perspectives. I do the same thing to learn about online business industry.
Here’s the truth:
Reading newspapers won’t make you rich. But acting on the right information will.
Every day, somewhere in Bangladesh, a business owner reads a small news piece — about a new policy, a market shift or a competitor’s move — and makes a decision that changes their business forever.
Will that business owner be you?