As the Chairman and Managing Director of Aftab Group, Iftekharul Islam, has been instrumental in driving the development and growth of the Aftab Group’s industrial establishments. His group is committed to making Bangladesh self-reliant in every sector, stands as a testament to his relentless pursuit of progress.
Born on 15 July 1980, Iftekharul Islam embarked on his journey to success by earning a Bachelor’s degree in commerce. However, it was his family’s background and legacy that instilled in him the spirit of entrepreneurship.
His late uncle, the renowned industrialist Zahurul Islam, was widely recognized for his contributions to the industry, earning him a prominent place in private sector in Bangladesh. Building upon the foundation laid by his father, Azharul Islam, the Executive Chairman of Aftab Group, Iftekharul Islam has taken the group to new heights. Under his leadership, the group has expanded extensively, not only within the country but also internationally, with a significant presence in New York, USA.
The diverse portfolio of Aftab Group encompasses various industries, including Milners Pumps Ltd., Sea Trade Fertilizer Ltd., Aftab Global Textile Ltd., Aftab Garments Ltd., Frozen Foods Ltd., Aftab Foods Ltd., Aftab Fertilizer and Chemicals Ltd., Aftab Milk and Dairy Products Ltd., Aftab CNG Ltd., Aftab International Ltd., Aftab Local and International Trading Ltd., Aftab Software Ltd., Aftab Computer Ltd., Aftab Properties Ltd., Aftab Steel Ltd., Aftab Holdings Ltd., Aftab Logistics Ltd., Aftab Global Fisheries Ltd., and Aftab Global Foundation Ltd.
Aftab Group has also made a mark in the banking sector, holding the majority stake in Uttara Bank Ltd., one of Bangladesh’s largest private commercial banks. Azharul Islam serves as the Chairman of Uttara Bank Ltd., with Iftekharul Islam serving as the Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors. With 220 branches and a skilled workforce of over 4,600 officers and employees, Uttara Bank plays a pivotal role in facilitating foreign business and remittances through agency arrangements with approximately 600 foreign banks.
The flagship company of Aftab Group, Milners Pumps Ltd., was established in 1981 in collaboration with Germany’s KSB Pumps Company Ltd. Located in Tongi, Gazipur, the Aftab Industries Complex has been catering to the needs of the common man for decades. In recognition of its commitment to quality, Milners Pumps obtained ISO 9001:2000 certification in 2002. Sea Trade Fertilizer Ltd., founded in 1992, has played a significant role in bolstering Bangladesh’s agricultural economy. Through the production of high-quality fertilizers such as urea, TSP, SSP, and MOP, the agricultural sector has witnessed remarkable growth. In 2001, Aftab Fertilizers and Chemicals Ltd. was established in Narayanganj, producing popular NPKS mixed fertilizers that have empowered farmers to achieve higher yields using superior imported fertilizers and pesticides. Aftab Milk and Dairy Products Ltd. has gained a reputation for its exceptional quality pasteurized milk, mango milk, chocolate milk, and ghee. By meeting the local demand with high-quality products, the company contributes to saving foreign exchange. Aftab CNG Limited has been instrumental in meeting the growing demand for natural gas in several cities, including Dhaka, Chittagong, and Gazipur. Aftab International Limited has earned the trust of businesses in Bangladesh as a reliable company for export, import, and trading. Headquartered in New York, USA, it has expanded its operations in property development, real estate, commodity trade, investment, and ready-made garment trading, contributing to the positive image of Bangladesh in the international arena.
Aftab Group’s industrial establishments are strategically located across the country, with industrial cities in Tongi, Shafipur, and Kishoreganj. Aftab Group’s software development company, AG Company, plays a leading role in computer systems, promoting technological advancement. Iftekharul Islam’s entrepreneurial vision and unwavering dedication, combined with the dreams of his father, Azharul Islam, have propelled the Aftab Group’s businesses to new horizons. Today, the group stands as a shining example of Bangladeshi entrepreneurship, making significant contributions to the nation’s development and extending its influence across the world.
