An illustration of leadership in action, presenting Tafhim Al Azmi, Chairman of BD Food Limited and BD Seafood Limited.
Bangladesh’s agricultural and food industries form the backbone of the nation’s economy, significantly contributing to GDP, employment, and global trade. These sectors are also key drivers of sustainable practices and ethical food sourcing for international markets. Amidst this dynamic landscape, BD Group has emerged as a leader, and at its helm is Tafhim Al Azmi.
Tafhim Al Azmi is the Chairman of BD Foods Limited, BD Seafood Limited, Sabjiana Limited, Mughal Snacks Limited, and BD Packing Ind. Limited, all under the aegis of BD Group, his family business. He also serves as the Chairman of Al Azmi Trade International, and is a member of the board of directors at Heritage Enterprise Limited. He is a visionary changemaker with a mission to elevate Bangladesh’s agro-processing and food sectors on the global stage. His journey to the forefront of these critical sectors is both inspirational and motivational.
A Journey Rooted in Entrepreneurship
Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, Mr. Azmi was immersed in the world of business from an early age. He earned both a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) while simultaneously participating in BD Group, gaining formal education alongside practical experience. This early exposure to the complexities of running a large conglomerate honed his entrepreneurial instincts and deepened his commitment to creating lasting impact.
A Unifier of Purpose
Tafhim Al Azmi’s leadership ethos centres around fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and shared purpose. He brings together people and energises them to work towards a common goal – a vision of becoming a globally celebrated food-producing conglomerate marked by the highest standards of world-class food products, and a mission to provide utmost reliability and ensuring uncompromising consumer satisfaction, thereby contributing meaningfully to the society and nation. Through this hands-on approach, Mr. Azmi has cultivated a workplace culture that values collaboration and continuous improvement, ensuring that BD Group remains at the forefront of Bangladesh’s food and agro-processing industries. Mr. Azmi’s pursuit of excellence has propelled BD Group to leadership not only in the local market but also on the international stage.
Leading BD Group – An Internationally Revered Conglomerate
As the third-generation leader of BD Group, which was founded in 1969, Mr. Azmi has overseen the company’s transformation into one of Bangladesh’s most recognised and respected conglomerates in the food and agro-processing industries. BD Group, now employing over 4,000 satisfied individuals, is committed to producing world-class food products while minimising environmental impact and uplifting local communities.
BD Seafood Ltd., one of BD Group’s flagship companies, exemplifies the group’s commitment to sustainable and ethical practices. It is a leading processor and exporter of seafood in Bangladesh, meeting and exceeding global standards for food safety. The company holds a range of international certifications, including ISO 22000:2018, HACCP, GMP, BRC, BAP, ASC, and MSC. BD Seafood ranks as the number 1 exporter of frozen shrimp and whitefish in Bangladesh and is approved by the European Union and registered with the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
BD Foods Ltd., another of BD Group’s core ventures, has emerged as one of Bangladesh’s fastest-growing FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) manufacturers. Specialising in agricultural foods and beverages, BD Foods’ strength is in sales, marketing, and distribution. BD Group’s commitment to agricultural innovation extends to Sabjiana Ltd., which processes and exports traditional and organic frozen vegetables and fruits, and Mughal Snacks Ltd., a producer of high-quality snacks gaining recognition in European and North American markets.
Under Mr. Azmi’s leadership, various companies under BD Group have been awarded the prestigious National Export Trophy – Bangladesh’s highest export honour – every year from FY 2008-2009 till date. Further highlighting his significant contributions to the national economy, Mr. Azmi has been recognised as a Commercially Important Person (CIP) multiple times, including in 2011, 2014, 2015, 2021, and 2022.
A Trailblazer for a Promising Future
Tafhim Al Azmi sees gargantuan potential in the nation’s agricultural food processing industry. Given the vast agricultural resources that are harnessed by the most hardworking, innovative and resilient population of farmers and fishermen perhaps in the entire globe, the industry possesses the potential of being a flagship sector representing Bangladesh. He firmly believes that with the right support, Bangladesh can truly be branded in a new positive light by the virtues of these unsung heroes who feed a nation of nearly 190 million. As a member of the executive committee of the Bangladesh Agro-Processing Industry, Mr. Azmi has advocated for fostering a favourable trade landscape that addresses existing export barriers alongside exploring alternative proposals for cash assistance in the agro-processing sector, particularly in light of the nation’s LDC graduation. Such a progressive trade policy, paired with efforts to equip the nation’s resilient and relentless farmers and fishermen with the right set of technologies, will harvest and cultivate innovation. Mr. Azmi sees a future where the nation’s entrepreneurial ecosystem truly has the potential to redefine the story of Bangladeshi dedication to achieving excellence.
Photograph by Najmul Haque Sagor (portrait of Tafhim Al Azmi)
Photographs courtesy of BD Group (pictures of BD Seafood Limited and BD Foods Limited)
