Eight business entities and a government app were crowned at the 2nd HSBC Business Excellence Awards for their role in promoting Bangladesh and contributing to the sustainable growth of the economy during the challenging time brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.

The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation in Bangladesh, one of the world's largest banking and financial service organisations, recognised the winners at a programme at the capital's Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden Hotel, in association with the commerce ministry of Bangladesh and the British High Commission in Dhaka.

Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi handed over the crests to the winners.

Pacific Jeans Group won the award in the readymade garments industry category for an annual export turnover of $50 million, while Envoy Textiles received it in the Supply Chain and Backward Linkage category for an annual export turnover of $10 million and above.

Pran-RFL Group, one of the largest conglomerates, took home the accolade in the nontraditional and emerging sectors for netting an annual export turnover of more than $3 million.

Hatil Complex Ltd, one of the largest furniture makers in Bangladesh, clinched the accolade for substituting imports to a value of $10 million and above.

Summit Corporation Ltd, the trailblazer in the power and energy sector, has been recognised thanks to its leadership in inbound investment and infrastructure.

In recent years, the group has attracted investments of over 1.1 billion from various international lenders and renowned financial institutions.

Malek Spinning Group, one of the oldest apparel manufacturing conglomerates that exports to large global retailers, was handed the award for its efforts to achieve better results in environmental, social and governance parameters.

The Best in Innovation & Technology Category Award went to BiBEAT Ltd, which has taken healthcare and other appropriate technologies to the doorsteps of the common people in Bangladesh and other third world countries.

It has developed a number of technological inventions, including Digital ECG equipment transferring data instantly over internet for telemedicine and electrical iontophoresis device for treating excessive sweating of palms and soles.

The special achievement award went to City Group, which has made an exemplary contribution to socio-economic growth through excellence in innovation, job creation and supporting the community in the last five decades.

Surokkha App, the coronavirus vaccine registration platform of the government that has already paved the way for a sizeable population of the country to access Covid-19 jabs, secured the Jury Award.

Speaking at the event, Tipu Munshi congratulated the winners.

He said at the beginning of Covid-19, Bangladesh was on the brink of losing businesses regarding international trade due to countrywide lockdowns and restrictions.

"However, we have showed strong resilience, fought back and survived," he said, adding that the government took many major initiatives to protect industries and businesses.

"The Business Excellence Awards is well-aligned with our intention to recognise successful businesses and entrepreneurs who have significantly contributed to the country's growth."

Zunaid Ahmed Palak, state minister for information and communications technology, said the Surokkha system is ensuring smooth vaccination for mass people.

He thanked HSBC for taking initiatives to recognise the business community for their contribution to the development of the nation and driving the economy towards becoming a middle-income country.

Robert Chatterton Dickson, the British high commissioner, said he was delighted that the British High Commission is once more able to join HSBC in honouring the best of Bangladeshi business as part of the awards initiative.

"Highlighting the achievements and potential of Bangladesh's innovative and resilient private sector is an excellent way to attract foreign capital, which will sustain growth through and beyond LDC graduation."

Amanda Murphy, head of commercial banking at HSBC South and Southeast Asia, said that as the leading international bank in Bangladesh, HSBC is strongly committed to the development of the country and helping its clients connect with sustainable growth opportunities.

"We are pleased to celebrate their winning journeys. We are proud of the many ways we have supported our clients as we work together to build a thriving, stronger future for Bangladesh and its business community."

Md Mahbub ur Rahman, chief executive officer of HSBC Bangladesh, said the bank has been supporting and enabling businesses in Bangladesh to connect with global opportunities for the last 25 years.

"Businesses and entrepreneurs have been resilient throughout the pandemic and are fueling the economic growth of Bangladesh. We are proud to recognise and encourage them for their perseverance and hard work."

Md Jashim Uddin, president of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industries, said: "The award will motivate other companies to achieve excellence."

He said the global economy is growing slowly, but Bangladesh is doing better.