Dhaka, Jun 09 (V7N) – State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yaser Khan Chowdhury announced on Tuesday that Bangladesh Television (BTV) has acquired the broadcasting rights for the upcoming FIFA World Cup at a total cost of Tk 63 crore, including VAT and related taxes.
Speaking at a briefing on World Cup broadcasting at the Secretariat, the minister said all matches of the tournament will be broadcast live for viewers across the country.
According to Chowdhury, the government took steps to ensure that football fans can watch the World Cup while safeguarding public resources.
“Arrangements have been made to broadcast the World Cup through BTV while protecting the interests of the people,” he said.
In addition to BTV, two private television channels, OTT platforms and mobile operator services will also be allowed to air the matches, expanding access for viewers nationwide.
The state minister criticized the previous Awami League government’s handling of World Cup broadcasting rights, alleging that public funds were unnecessarily spent under a contract worth approximately Tk 100 crore in 2022.
He said the current administration has prioritized financial prudence and the protection of public wealth in all negotiations.
Chowdhury revealed that an intermediary proposal had offered the broadcasting rights for around Tk 200 crore, but the government declined the offer and instead pursued direct negotiations with FIFA.
As a result, he said, Bangladesh was able to secure the rights for approximately Tk 47 crore, with the total amount reaching Tk 63 crore after the inclusion of VAT and taxes.
The government believes the arrangement will ensure nationwide access to the world’s biggest football tournament while maintaining cost efficiency and transparency in public spending.
END/SMA/AJ
