KDS is one of the most renowned businesses and industrial conglomerates of Bangladesh, established in the port city of Chittagong but have now extended operations throughout the world. Having established offices and agencies in Singapore, Hong Kong and the UK, with plans of expanding into the USA, the group thereby is paving the path into becoming a Bangladeshi based multinational.
Founded in 1983, through the establishment of one of the first garments industries in Bangladesh, and over the last 28 years, through innovation, dynamism, untiring effort and dedication, the business in terms of assets and revenues have grown exponentially by sometimes over 500% a year. The fields of business have also extended from being just apparel exports to a whole array of other industries. Today the total group can proudly declare over USD 500 million of annual revenues in total with over 25,000 employees, staff and workers.
Established in 2000 with a steadfast dedication to international exports and specializing in the production of top-tier solid and striped knit fabrics, KDS Textile currently operates with an impressive annual capacity of 3000 tons.
Headed by Chairman Khalilur Rahman and managed by Managing Director Salim Rahman, KDS Logistics is a renowned industrial conglomerate based in the Port City. With an extensive international presence and a remarkable turnover exceeding $900 million in 2020-2021, KDS Logistics is on the path to becoming a Bangladeshi-based multinational powerhouse.
KDS Steel, a pioneering force in Bangladesh’s steel industry since its establishment in 1989, with a product portfolio encompassing a wide range, extends across all 64 districts of Bangladesh and proudly stands as one of the nation’s top flat steel exporters, with a global presence spanning over 22 countries.
KDS Group has played a pivotal role in shaping the financial landscape of Bangladesh as a founding force behind two prestigious local commercial private banks: National Bank Limited and Al-Arafah Islami Bank Limited. In addition to its banking ventures, the group expanded into the insurance sector, successfully establishing two thriving companies: Northern Insurance Ltd. and Pragati Insurance Ltd.
SKYS Securities is KDS’s newest venture dedicated to capturing a significant market share in the rapidly expanding Chittagong Stock Market. The company is committed to providing state-of-the-art trading facilities at each branch, fostering a world-class trading environment for clients.
Rahman & Co. (Fossil), a unique chain of refueling stations in Chittagong, owned by KDS. Beyond conventional refueling, Fossil’s profits are dedicated to supporting 17 nonprofit organizations within KDS. With flagship facilities in Muradpur and Charfarid, Fossil caters to 1,500-2,500 vehicles daily, embodying social responsibility and community empowerment.
Sustainability
Energy
- Energy from waste
- Solar plant
- 100% LED (light emitting diodes)
- Gas from waste
Water
- ETP
- Captive rainwater
- Water recycling
- Clean drinking water plant
Emissions
- Recycling waste material.
- EGB – Exhaust Gas Boiler
- Paperless office
Social
- Empowerment
- Incentives
- Well-Being
The Visionary
Mr. Khalilur Rahman
Every successful entrepreneur has a fascinating tale to tell, full of ideas, dreams, challenges, and triumphs. Their unwavering confidence has led to many products and services we’ve taken for granted. One such entrepreneur’s dreams and struggles have built one of Bangladesh’s largest business conglomerates, employing over 30,000 people worldwide. Mr. Khalilur Rahman is the head of KDS Group.
When he first started out in business in 1967, he had few resources but firm faith in himself. He began with a humble local operation, but he has since expanded into many different fields. As a result of his compassion for the economically disadvantaged locals, he began investigating opportunities that required substantial manual labor. Initially based in Chittagong, he established his large-scale garment manufacturing facility, KDS Garments, around 1983. 90% of the business’ workers were the poor locals he was concerned about. As with his previous endeavors, his zeal for success and affection for the human race were the defining characteristics of this new enterprise. Mr. Rahman’s tenacity and drive allowed him to diversify his business holdings over the years and take on new ventures in diverse industries. These include textiles, garment accessories, steel, investment management, logistics, banking, insurance, etc. To this day, KDS group has grown to generate more than $500,000,000 annually in revenue.
Managing Director
Mr. Salim Rahman
Managing Director
Mr. Rahman has completed MBA from USA and holding the office as Managing Director in the company. He has been actively involved with different sectors like Garment, Accessories, Steel, Textile, Shipping, Securities, Banking and Insurance. He is also working as a Managing Director of KDS Garments Industries Limited, KDS Apparels Limited, KDS Fashion Ltd, KDS Poly Industries Limited, KDS Cotton Poly Thread Industries Ltd, Steel Accessories Limited and KDS Logistics Ltd.
Mr. Rahman has social participation with the life members Bhatiary Golf & Country Club, Chittagong Club Limited and Chittagong Institute Limited (Senior’s Club). He is currently chairman of the board of directors of Al-Arafah Islami Bank Limited (AIBL). He is a director of Chittagong Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce & Industries. He is also involved with others social organizations and activities.