Chattogram, Dec 23 (V7N) — Former Commerce Minister and BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury emphasized the importance of political neutrality in autonomous financial and regulatory institutions, stating that during BNP’s previous tenure, no political appointments were made in Bangladesh Bank, the stock market, or other key institutions, which helped prevent economic collapses. He made the remarks while delivering the keynote speech at the “Trade Dialogue” organized by the Chattogram Divisional Business Forum at a city hotel on Monday.

Amir Khasru stated that under past Awami League governments, institutions such as Bangladesh Bank operated under the direct influence of the Prime Minister’s Office, which compromised their independence and led to financial irregularities, including cash smuggling. He emphasized that in the future, politicians should be accountable to businesses rather than vice versa.

The dialogue featured prominent business leaders, including BGMEA Senior Vice President Selim Rahman, Chattogram Customs Agents Association President SM Saiful Alam, BGAPME President Shahid Ullah, Khatoon Bazar Traders’ Association President Abdus Salam, Asian Group Chairman MA Salam, Terri Bazar Traders’ Association President MA Mannan, SICM Group owner Amirul Haque, Chattogram Inter-District Bus Owners’ Association Secretary Kafil Uddin, Pacific Jeans Chairman Syed Mohammad Tanvir, and PHP Group Director Jahirul Islam Chowdhury.

Addressing the business community, Amir Khasru announced that exporters would receive back-to-back support, with comprehensive automation measures implemented under the supervision of a newly formed committee. He also stressed the need to involve at least half of the country’s women in business activities.

Selim Rahman highlighted infrastructure challenges, noting that no gas connections have been provided to new factories in the past 20 years and called for allocation of two-acre plots in EPZs for BGMEA factories to generate employment. Jahirul Islam Chowdhury pointed out bureaucratic delays in the shipbreaking industry, where environmental approvals take up to two months despite quick permissions from the Ministry of Industry, urging reforms to prevent harassment.

Addressing the hill district business concerns, Rangamati Chamber President and district BNP General Secretary Mamunur Rashid noted difficulties in accessing bank loans, recommending the opening of EPZs in the three hill districts and the activation of the Thegamukh land port in Barkal to create youth employment opportunities. Bandarban Chamber Executive Member Jasim Uddin highlighted the lack of government support in the tourism sector, despite generating annual business worth around Tk 1,000 crore.

The dialogue underscored the need for political neutrality, regulatory reforms, infrastructure development, and broader inclusion to strengthen the business environment in Bangladesh.

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