Top 10 English Newspapers in Bangladesh
In the vibrant media landscape of Bangladesh, English-language newspapers play a crucial role in delivering reliable news to a diverse audience. While Bengali newspapers dominate in terms of circulation, English dailies cater to professionals, expatriates, students, and international readers seeking in-depth coverage of national and global affairs. As of 2025, these publications offer a mix of print and digital formats, with strong online presences that make them accessible worldwide.
The demand for English newspapers in Bangladesh has grown steadily, driven by the country's expanding educated middle class, business community, and diaspora. These newspapers are known for their analytical reporting, editorial independence, and focus on topics like politics, economy, business, sports, and culture. Many also provide e-papers and mobile apps for convenient reading.
This article explores the top 10 English newspapers in Bangladesh, ranked based on popularity, circulation estimates, online traffic, and journalistic reputation. Whether you're looking for daily updates on Bangladesh news or insightful opinion pieces, these sources are essential. We'll include details on each newspaper's name, website, and primary category to help you choose the right one.
Why Read English Newspapers in Bangladesh?
English newspapers in Bangladesh offer several advantages:
- Global Perspective: They often feature international news alongside local stories, making them ideal for readers interested in world affairs.
- Business and Economy Focus: Many specialize in financial news, appealing to entrepreneurs and investors.
- Quality Journalism: Known for balanced reporting and investigative pieces.
- Accessibility: Most have robust websites and apps, with some offering free access to articles.
- Language Improvement: Regular reading helps enhance English proficiency, especially for students preparing for exams or careers.
In 2025, digital readership has surged, with platforms like The Daily Star and Dhaka Tribune leading in online engagement. These newspapers also contribute to public discourse on critical issues like politics, human rights, and economic development.
List of Top 10 English Newspapers in Bangladesh
Here's a curated list of the top 10 English newspapers, presented in a clear format with key details:
- Website: https://www.thedailystar.net
- Category: General News (National, International, Business, Sports, Entertainment)
- Website: https://www.dhakatribune.com
- Category: General News (Politics, Business, Lifestyle, Opinion)
- Website: https://www.newagebd.net
- Category: General News (Outspoken, Investigative, Human Rights Focus)
- Website: https://thefinancialexpress.com.bd/
- Category: Business and Finance (Economy, Stock Market, Trade)
- Website: https://www.tbsnews.net
- Category: Business and Economy (In-depth Analysis, Corporate News)
- Website: https://www.daily-sun.com
- Category: General News (Daily Updates, Politics, Sports)
- Website: https://www.theindependentbd.com
- Category: General News (Politics, International Affairs)
- Website: https://www.observerbd.com
- Category: General News (National, Business, Lifestyle)
- Website: https://bangladeshpost.net
- Category: General News (Politics, Economy, Culture)
- Website: https://businesspostbd.com
- Category: Business and Finance (Market Insights, Entrepreneurship)
This ranking is based on factors like readership surveys, online rankings (e.g., from Semrush and Alexa equivalents), and mentions in media directories as of late 2025. Note that circulation figures for English papers are generally lower than Bengali ones, with The Daily Star often leading in both print and digital.
In-Depth Look at Each Top English Newspaper
Founded in 1991, The Daily Star is widely regarded as Bangladesh's leading English daily. It offers comprehensive coverage of national politics, international news, business, sports (especially cricket), and entertainment. Its editorials are influential, and it has won awards for journalism. The website features live updates, videos, and an e-paper.
Launched in 2013, Dhaka Tribune is known for neutral and analytical reporting. It excels in political analysis, foreign affairs, and lifestyle sections. The paper has a young, dynamic team and a strong digital presence, making it popular among urban readers.
New Age stands out for its outspoken and progressive stance. It focuses on human rights, social issues, and investigative journalism. Often critical of establishment views, it's a favorite among intellectuals and activists.
As Bangladesh's premier financial newspaper since 1993, The Financial Express provides detailed coverage of economy, stock markets, trade, and banking. It's essential for business professionals and includes collaborations with international outlets.
A newer entrant, The Business Standard has quickly risen in popularity for its sharp business reporting and data-driven stories. It covers corporate news, startups, and economic policies with high-quality analysis.
6. Daily Sun
Part of a major media group, Daily Sun offers broad coverage with a focus on daily news, politics, and sports. Its straightforward style appeals to a wide audience.
One of the older English dailies, The Independent provides balanced views on politics and international relations. It's trusted for its fidelity to facts.
The Daily Observer emphasizes people's rights and national issues. It includes sections on business, health, and education.
This newspaper covers a mix of politics, economy, and culture, with a focus on positive developments in Bangladesh.
Focused on business trends, markets, and entrepreneurship, it's a go-to for economic news and insights.
History of English Newspapers in Bangladesh
The history of English-language newspapers in Bangladesh is deeply intertwined with the country's colonial past, its struggle for independence, and its evolution as a nation. While Bengali newspapers dominate the media landscape due to the language's status as the mother tongue, English dailies have played a vital role in serving educated elites, business communities, expatriates, and international readers. These publications have often provided analytical depth, global perspectives, and critical commentary on politics, economy, and society.
As of 2025, Bangladesh boasts over 30 English-language dailies, though circulation remains modest compared to Bengali papers—estimated at around 70,000 copies combined. Leading titles like The Daily Star dominate in readership and influence, with strong digital presences. This article traces the journey of English newspapers from the British colonial era through partitions, independence, and the digital age.
Colonial Era: The Beginnings of English Press (1850s–1947)
The roots of English journalism in what is now Bangladesh trace back to the British colonial period in undivided India. Printing presses arrived late in East Bengal compared to Calcutta (Kolkata), the colonial hub.
- 1856: The first English weekly in Dhaka (then Dacca), The Dacca News, was launched. Edited by A.R. Forbes, it was a pioneering effort but struggled due to limited infrastructure and readership. It faced challenges like shortages of printing types.
Subsequent publications included The Bengal Times, which continued into the early 20th century. These early papers primarily served British officials, traders, and a small educated Bengali elite. They focused on commercial news, administrative announcements, and colonial perspectives.
During this time, the English press in Bengal was influenced by broader Indian journalism, with papers like Hicky's Bengal Gazette (1780, Calcutta) setting precedents for critical reporting—though often censored.
English newspapers helped spread ideas of reform, education, and later nationalism, but in East Bengal, development lagged due to lower literacy and economic underdevelopment.
Pakistan Period: Post-Partition Growth (1947–1971)
After the 1947 Partition of India, East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) saw a resurgence in English journalism amid political changes.
- 1949: The Pakistan Observer was launched in Dhaka, becoming the leading English daily. It later renamed to Bangladesh Observer after independence and ran until 2010, making it one of the longest-running English papers in the region.
Other notable papers included Morning News (pro-government) and The Observer. These publications navigated the tensions of the Language Movement (1952), where demands for Bengali's recognition fueled nationalism.
English papers often reflected pro-Pakistan or establishment views but also covered the growing autonomy movement in East Pakistan. Circulation was limited, catering mainly to urban professionals and government circles.
During the Liberation War of 1971, many papers faced censorship or closure under Pakistani authorities. Underground and exile publications emerged, boosting morale.
Post-Independence Era: Rebirth and Challenges (1971–1990)
Bangladesh's independence in 1971 marked a new chapter. The Pakistan Observer became the Bangladesh Observer, symbolizing continuity.
The early years saw press freedom enshrined in the constitution, but political instability, military rules, and economic constraints limited growth. The government nationalized some papers briefly.
English journalism focused on reconstruction, international aid, and politics. However, Bengali papers like Dainik Ittefaq and Dainik Sangbad dominated circulation.
Challenges included censorship under military regimes (e.g., 1975–1990) and low readership due to English's elite status.
The Evolution of English Media in Bangladesh
English newspapers trace their roots to colonial times, with The Bangladesh Observer (1949-2010) being one of the oldest. Post-independence, publications like The Daily Star emerged to fill the gap for quality English journalism. Today, in 2025, digital transformation has made these newspapers more accessible, with most offering free online articles and paid e-papers.
Challenges include competition from social media and online portals, but English dailies maintain credibility through fact-checking and depth.
How to Access These Newspapers Online
All listed newspapers have user-friendly websites with sections for breaking news, opinions, and archives. Many provide mobile apps for notifications. For expatriates, these sites are a vital link to home news.
Benefits of Reading Top English Newspapers
- Stay updated on Bangladesh's politics, economy, and culture.
- Improve vocabulary and critical thinking.
- Access unbiased international coverage.
- Support independent journalism.
In conclusion, the top 10 English newspapers in Bangladesh offer diverse perspectives in a dynamic media environment. From general news giants like The Daily Star to business specialists like The Financial Express, there's something for every reader. Start exploring these today for informed, engaging content.
