Top English Newspapers in Bangladesh

In the vibrant media landscape of Bangladesh, English-language newspapers stand as vital bridges between local stories and global discourse. As the country navigates rapid economic growth, political transitions, and digital transformation in 2025, these publications cater to an increasingly educated, urban readership seeking unbiased reporting, in-depth analysis, and international perspectives. With Bangladesh's literacy rate surpassing 75% and internet penetration reaching over 50%, English dailies like The Daily Star and Dhaka Tribune have evolved from print staples to dynamic online platforms, influencing policy, business, and public opinion.

The roots of English-language journalism in Bangladesh trace back to the British colonial era, when the subcontinent's press was a tool for both imperial administration and nationalist awakening. The first English newspaper in the Bengal region, The Bengal Hurkaru, emerged in 1818 from Calcutta (now Kolkata), focusing on trade, shipping, and colonial gossip. By the mid-19th century, Dhaka—then the heart of East Bengal—saw its own contributions. In 1856, Dhaka News, edited by A.R. Forbes, became the first English weekly published in what is now Bangladesh, covering local events, missionary activities, and British policies.

The partition of Bengal in 1905 spurred further growth, with English papers like The Eastern Times (1906) advocating for regional autonomy. However, true momentum came post-1947, during the Pakistan era. In 1949, The Pakistan Observer—founded by Hamidul Huq Choudhury in Dhaka—marked the birth of a sustained English daily in East Pakistan (modern Bangladesh). Renamed The Bangladesh Observer after independence in 1971, it chronicled the Liberation War's aftermath, becoming a symbol of resilience amid censorship and political turmoil. Circulation peaked at over 50,000 copies, but it ceased in 2010 due to financial woes, leaving a void filled by newer entrants.

Independence in 1971 ushered in a golden age for English journalism, aligning with Bangladesh's aspirations for modernity and international alliances. The 1980s and 1990s saw liberalization, with private ownership booming. The Daily Star launched in 1991 amid restored democracy, quickly eclipsing predecessors with its bold editorials and investigative scoops. This era also birthed business-focused titles like The Financial Express (1993), reflecting Bangladesh's shift toward export-led growth.

By the 2000s, digital disruption and rising literacy fueled expansion. Outlets like New Age (2003) and Dhaka Tribune (2013) emphasized progressive voices, often clashing with authoritarian regimes through exposés on corruption and human rights. Challenges persisted: military coups, emergency rule (2007-2008), and the 2018 Digital Security Act curtailed freedoms, forcing many to pivot online. Yet, English papers endured, with hybrid models blending print and apps.

In 2025, English journalism in Bangladesh reflects hybrid vigor—print circulations stabilizing at 30,000-45,000 daily amid a 50% drop during COVID-19, while online traffic surges via Semrush rankings. They now tackle pressing issues like the Rohingya crisis, climate migration, and LDC graduation. As Bangladesh eyes middle-income status, these newspapers remain indispensable, blending colonial legacies with postcolonial innovation.

The Top 10 English Newspapers in Bangladesh: In-Depth Profiles

Bangladesh boasts over 40 English dailies and portals, but a handful dominate with credibility and reach. Below, we profile the top 10 based on 2025 circulation estimates, online engagement, and influence. These rankings draw from recent audits and traffic data, highlighting their evolution in a competitive market.

1. The Daily Star: The Gold Standard of Bangladeshi English Journalism

Founded on January 14, 1991, by Syed Mohammed Ali under the Transcom Group, The Daily Star is Bangladesh's premier English daily, with a circulation of approximately 45,000 copies as of 2025—making it the highest-circulating English paper. Editor Mahfuz Anam has steered it through turbulent times, earning accolades for fearless reporting on the 1971 War atrocities and 2024 political upheavals.

What sets The Daily Star apart? Its balanced sections—national politics, international affairs, business, sports, and lifestyle—appeal to urban elites and diaspora readers. The weekend edition features supplements like Star Weekend, blending literature, arts, and youth culture. Online, thedailystar.net boasts millions of monthly views, with podcasts and videos enhancing accessibility. Notable scoops include exposés on garment factory fires, influencing labor reforms. In 2025, it champions sustainability, dedicating series to Delta Plan 2100 amid rising sea levels. For SEO-savvy readers searching "best English news Bangladesh," it's the go-to for authoritative, ad-free content.

2. The Financial Express: Beacon for Business and Economy

Launched in 1993 by International Publications Limited, The Financial Express (FE) pioneered financial journalism in Bangladesh, boasting a 2025 circulation of 39,000—tied for second among English dailies. Under Editor Shahiduzzaman Khan, it focuses on markets, trade, and policy, mirroring Bangladesh's GDP growth from $100 billion in 2010 to over $500 billion today.

FE's strength lies in data-driven analysis: stock market trackers, forex updates, and interviews with IMF officials. Supplements like FE Weekend explore fintech and SMEs, vital for Dhaka's startup hub. Digitally, thefinancialexpress.com.bd integrates APIs for real-time BSE indices, attracting investors. A 2025 special on "Post-LDC Trade Strategies" underscores its foresight. Challenges? Navigating advertiser pressures in a volatile economy. Yet, FE remains essential for queries like "Bangladesh economy news 2025," offering unbiased insights into remittances and RMG exports.

3. Dhaka Tribune: Progressive Voice for the Youth

Established April 19, 2013, by 2A Media Limited, Dhaka Tribune has surged to 45,000 circulation in 2025, rivaling The Daily Star with its millennial-friendly tone. Editor Zafar Sobhan emphasizes social justice, from women's rights to environmental activism.

Key features include sharp op-eds, multimedia infographics, and the "Metropolitan" section on urban life. Online at dhakatribune.com, it leads in video journalism, covering protests like the 2024 student uprising. Awards for investigative pieces on trafficking highlight its impact. In 2025, series on "Digital Bangladesh 2.0" align with 5G rollouts. Ideal for searches on "youth news Bangladesh," it bridges generational gaps with podcasts and AR features.

4. Daily Sun: Mass Appeal with Broad Coverage

Since October 23, 2010, under East West Media Group, Daily Sun has grown to 41,000 copies in 2025, ranking second in circulation. Editor Md. Rezaul Karim Lotus oversees a tabloid-style format blending news, entertainment, and tabloid flair.

Standouts: Vivid photo essays on festivals like Pohela Boishakh and health columns post-COVID. Dailysun.com excels in mobile optimization, with 2 million app downloads. It broke stories on cyclone Amphan relief in 2020, aiding aid distribution. For 2025, expect deep dives into tourism recovery. Popular for "lifestyle news Bangladesh," it's accessible yet substantive.

5. The Independent: Stalwart of Investigative Reporting

Founded March 26, 1995, by Beximco Group (now Independent Publications), The Independent thrives in 2025 with 38,000 circulation, defying closure rumors. Editor Golam Azam champions ethics, earning trust through fact-checks.

Highlights: In-depth foreign affairs and anti-corruption probes. Theindependentbd.com offers e-paper and forums. A 2025 exposé on offshore banking influenced regulations. For "independent Bangladesh news," it's a reliable, ad-light choice.

6. New Age: Outspoken Advocate for Rights

Debuting June 2003 via Media New Age Limited, New Age holds 38,600 copies in 2025, known for leftist leanings. Editor Nurul Kabir's editorials critique power structures.

Features: Labor rights focus and cultural reviews. Newagebd.net leads in SEO for "human rights Bangladesh." 2025 coverage of interim government reforms cements its role.

7. The Daily Observer: Balanced and Diplomatic

Launched February 1, 2011, by Observer Ltd., it circulates 38,750 copies, edited by Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury. Emphasizes diplomacy and education.

Observerbd.com's archives aid researchers. 2025 specials on SAARC ties boost its profile for "diplomatic news Bangladesh."

8. The Business Standard: Emerging Financial Powerhouse

Since January 21, 2020, under Orion Group, The Business Standard reaches 35,500, focusing on analytics. Editor Inam Ahmed drives ESG reporting.

Tbsnews.net integrates charts; 2025 green finance series targets investors.

9. Prothom Alo English Edition: Bilingual Bridge

The English arm of Bengali giant Prothom Alo (1998), en.prothomalo.com draws massive traffic in 2025, equivalent to 50,000+ print equivalents via digital. Covers breaking news with visuals.

Popular for "English breaking news BD," its 57% reader share underscores hybrid appeal.

10. The Bangladesh Today: Niche International Lens

From January 26, 2002, by Jobaer Alam, it circulates 22,500, specializing in global affairs. Thebangladeshtoday.com offers UN updates.

2025 focus: Indo-Pacific dynamics for "international news Bangladesh."

The Evolving Role of English Newspapers in Modern Bangladesh

In 2025, English dailies face digital natives: print sales dipped 50-70% post-pandemic, but online readership exploded, with The Daily Star topping Semrush charts at 462nd nationally. Challenges include fake news and funding cuts, yet opportunities abound in AI-driven personalization and podcasts.

These outlets shape discourse on gender equality (e.g., Dhaka Tribune's #MeToo coverage) and sustainability, aligning with SDG goals. As Bangladesh hosts 1 million Rohingya refugees, their reporting fosters empathy. Future trends? VR storytelling and blockchain verification to combat misinformation.

Staying Informed in a Dynamic Nation

English newspapers in Bangladesh are more than news sources—they're catalysts for change. From The Daily Star's legacy to Prothom Alo's digital prowess, they empower readers amid 2025's uncertainties. Dive in, subscribe, and engage: your informed voice strengthens democracy. For the latest, bookmark these top Bangladeshi English dailies today.