Akij Food and Beverage to raise Tk 5b through zero-coupon bond

Akij Food and Beverage Limited (AFBL), one of Bangladesh’s leading homegrown FMCG companies competing with global giants, has announced plans to raise Tk 5 billion through a zero-coupon bond, subject to approval from the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC), according to a press statement Monday.

The five-year bond, designed to offer an attractive return, aims to support AFBL’s ongoing expansion by strengthening trade operations, improving cash flow management, and diversifying funding sources beyond traditional bank financing. The move reflects AFBL’s forward-thinking financial strategy and introduces a secure, innovative investment opportunity for the country’s growing investor base.

At a recently held ceremony at the AFBL head office, the agreement was formally signed by Sk Shamim Uddin, managing director of Akij Food and Beverage Limited (issuer); Md Minhaz Zia, CFA, chairman of North Star Investments (arranger); Zhuang Lifeng, chairman of Lion City Advisory Limited (advisor); and Mesbah Uddin Ahmed, managing director of IDLC Investments Ltd (trustee).

Senior officials from Akij Food and Beverage Limited, North Star Investments Limited, Lion City Advisory Limited, and IDLC Investments Ltd were also present at the event.

AFBL’s market leadership was further affirmed when Mojo, its flagship beverage brand, was named the most loved brand of 2024 by the Bangladesh Brand Forum. In the alternative carbonated soft drink (CSD) category, Speed also received the most loved brand award, reflecting strong consumer appeal and brand strength.

With this bond issuance, AFBL strengthens its position as a key player in industrial innovation and capital market development in Bangladesh, continuing its journey as a proudly Bangladeshi FMCG leader.