On December 7, 2024 a meeting was held at the BGMEA Complex in Dhaka to discuss the current business environment in Bangladesh with a particular focus on safety and sustainability within the industrial sector. The meeting was presided over by Mr. Md. Anwar Hossain, Administrator of BGMEA. Mr. Showkat Aziz Russell, President of BTMA attended the meeting.
The meeting addressed several pressing issues, particularly those affecting the Textile and RMG industry. Key topics included:
• Safety concerns in industrial areas;
• The ongoing gas shortage; and
• Challenges related to the banking sector.
A major point of discussion was the recent attack on the Deputy Managing Director of Mahmud Denim Limited which has alarmed the business community. Business leaders including the Honorable President of BTMA, urged the government to take immediate action to ensure the safety and security of factories across all sectors. They emphasized that protecting workers and entrepreneurs is essential for sustaining economic growth and preserving jobs.
Additionally, the business leaders expressed concerns over Bangladesh Bank’s new policy on defaulted loans, scheduled to take effect in April 2024. Business leaders warned that the policy could disrupt investment flows and negatively impact the private sector, urging the government to reconsider its implementation strategy.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for a collaborative approach between the government and industry stakeholders to address these challenges and foster a safer, more sustainable business environment.
Among the invited attendees were prominent business leaders of the country including Mr. Tapan Chowdhury, Former Advisor to the Caretaker Government of Bangladesh and Former President of BTMA, Mr. Md. Hafizur Rahman, Administrator of FBCCI, Mr. Ardashir Kabir, President of BEF, Mr. Anwar Ul Alam Chowdhury, President of BCI, Mr. Mohammad Hatem, President of BKMEA, Mr. Kamran T. Rahman, President of MCCI, Mr. Md. Shahriar, President of BGAPMEA, Mr. Osama Taseer, Past President of DCCI, Mr. Shams Mahmud, Member of BGMEA Support Committee and Former Director of BTMA, Mr. Abrar H. Sayem, President of BAYLA and Ms. Hasin Arman, 1st Vice President of BAYLA.