The Daily Corporate Desk
Dhaka, 30 June 2026: VEON Group, the global telecommunications and digital services company behind mobile operator Banglalink, is considering a $250 million investment in Bangladesh as part of a broader effort to strengthen the country’s digital ecosystem and attract additional foreign direct investment.
The proposed investment was discussed during a meeting between VEON Founder and Chairman Augie K. Fabela II and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Prime Minister’s Office on Monday.
According to company representatives, the planned investment would serve as the foundation of a larger initiative named “Invest in Bangladesh NOW.” Under the programme, VEON aims to act as the lead investor while encouraging other international partners and institutions to invest in Bangladesh, with the goal of generating up to $1 billion in total foreign direct investment.
The company said the proposed funding would focus on key areas of the digital economy, including digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, digital financial services, mobile banking, and next-generation connectivity technologies.
During the meeting, VEON outlined its vision for expanding financial inclusion through the introduction of digital banking services, microfinance solutions, and micro-insurance products designed to reach underserved and unbanked populations across the country.
The discussion was attended by Posts, Telecommunications, Information Technology, and Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam, Prime Minister’s Adviser Rehan Asif Asad, VEON Board Member Michiel Soeting, Banglalink Chief Executive Officer Johan Buse, and Banglalink Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer Taimur Rahman.
VEON, a NASDAQ-listed company with operations across multiple markets, said Bangladesh remains one of its strategic priorities. Beyond telecommunications, the group is exploring opportunities in sectors such as digital banking, healthcare technology, education, agriculture, ride-sharing platforms, and Internet of Things (IoT)-based services.
The company is also evaluating advanced connectivity solutions that could further improve nationwide digital access, including satellite-enabled direct-to-device communication technologies.
Following the meeting, Augie K. Fabela II expressed confidence in Bangladesh’s long-term growth potential, stating that VEON remains committed to supporting the country’s digital development through investment, innovation, and partnerships.
Banglalink CEO Johan Buse said the company plans to expand beyond traditional telecom services by developing new digital and financial solutions in collaboration with government stakeholders, contributing to the country’s broader digital transformation agenda.
The proposed investment comes at a time when Bangladesh is seeking to attract greater foreign investment into technology-driven sectors and strengthen its position as a growing digital economy in South Asia.
