TDS Desk:

Business leaders on Wednesday expressed concerns regarding the security of industries and the potential for religious conspiracies in the country.

As domestic and international investors seek a stable and conducive environment for investment, these issues have become increasingly pressing.

They also highlighted the need to dissolve all trade bodies, including associations and chambers, which they claimed had become political platforms during the regime of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

These remarks were made at a programme addressing the current national situation and future actions held at a city hotel.

Speaking at the event, International Chamber of Commerce Bangladesh (ICCB) President Mahbubur Rahman stated, “We are worried about security amid conspiracies related to religious issues. Law and order have not improved significantly yet. We must all work together and support the interim government in moving forward.”

Rahman also emphasised that business organisations should undergo systematic reforms rather than be subject to hostile takeovers, as this is crucial for the development of industries.

“The business community is facing a dollar crisis, which is affecting exports. Additionally, high inflation is placing further pressure on day labourers. These issues need to be addressed urgently,” he added.

Former president of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), Abdul Awal Mintoo, stated, “It is not the role of business organisations to identify with the BNP, Jamaat, or Awami League. During my tenure as FBCCI president under the BNP government, no one could say I enquired about anyone’s party identity. Our role is to put pressure on the government to facilitate business by highlighting sector-specific issues.”

Mintoo also noted the absence of a trade adviser in the interim government, adding, “Social safety is crucial for foreign direct investment (FDI). Democracy and economic development go hand in hand.”