FBCCI-IBFB joint Discussion meeting on *‘Strengthening Business through Ethics and Fair Practice’

The discussion, titled "Business Climate in Bangladesh: Issues and Challenges of Ethical Practice," was jointly organized by the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) and the International Business Forum of Bangladesh (IBFB) at the FBCCI office in Motijheel.

In his keynote presentation, Dr. Khondaker Golam Moazzem, Research Director of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), advocated for "Business Process Re-engineering" to reduce the cost of doing business and improve the efficiency of government agencies. He underscored that streamlining services—such as licensing, registration, and customs—must be accompanied by a culture of integrity among government officials to eliminate systemic bottlenecks.

Business leaders participating in the open discussion highlighted that a truly investment-friendly environment requires the immediate implementation of digitalization, automation, and a "Single Window" system to ensure transparency. IBFB Director M.S. Siddiqui pointed out that certain regulatory frameworks remain at odds with ease-of-doing-business goals, which can inadvertently discourage both local and foreign investment.

Addressing these concerns, Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Secretary Mohammad Kaled Rahim acknowledged existing procedural complexities but reaffirmed the commission's commitment to simplifying systems. He urged the business community to report specific instances of harassment to the authorities. Foreign Secretary Dr. Md. Nazrul Islam further noted that while the interim government has initiated complex institutional reforms, a broader "behavioral reform" across all sectors is now a critical priority.

IBFB President Lutfunnisa Saudia Khan remarked that ethical practices are the cornerstone of inclusive growth and a stronger global reputation for Bangladesh. She noted that collective responsibility and open dialogue are as vital as legal frameworks in addressing the challenges faced by entrepreneurs today.

Closing the session, FBCCI Administrator Md. Abdur Rahim Khan assured participants that the FBCCI would formally place the private sector’s recommendations to the government. He called upon entrepreneurs to uphold responsible business conduct.

The event was attended by former FBCCI directors, general body members, FBCCI Secretary General Md. Alamgir, Head of FBCCI International Affairs Wing Mr. Md. Zafar Iqbal ndc, Adviser of FBCCI Safety Council Brig. Gen. (retd.) Abu Nayeem Md. Shahidullah, leaders from IBFB, and leaders from different chambers and associations.

Analysts and business leaders at a high-level discussion today emphasized that policy reforms, institutional efficiency, and a steadfast commitment to ethical business practices are essential for Bangladesh to maintain its competitive edge following LDC graduation.

The discussion, titled "Business Climate in Bangladesh: Issues and Challenges of Ethical Practice," was jointly organized by the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) and the International Business Forum of Bangladesh (IBFB) at the FBCCI office in Motijheel.

In his keynote presentation, Dr. Khondaker Golam Moazzem, Research Director of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), advocated for "Business Process Re-engineering" to reduce the cost of doing business and improve the efficiency of government agencies. He underscored that streamlining services—such as licensing, registration, and customs—must be accompanied by a culture of integrity among government officials to eliminate systemic bottlenecks.

Business leaders participating in the open discussion highlighted that a truly investment-friendly environment requires the immediate implementation of digitalization, automation, and a "Single Window" system to ensure transparency. IBFB Director M.S. Siddiqui pointed out that certain regulatory frameworks remain at odds with ease-of-doing-business goals, which can inadvertently discourage both local and foreign investment.

Addressing these concerns, Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Secretary Mohammad Kaled Rahim acknowledged existing procedural complexities but reaffirmed the commission's commitment to simplifying systems. He urged the business community to report specific instances of harassment to the authorities. Foreign Secretary Dr. Md. Nazrul Islam further noted that while the interim government has initiated complex institutional reforms, a broader "behavioral reform" across all sectors is now a critical priority.

IBFB President Lutfunnisa Saudia Khan remarked that ethical practices are the cornerstone of inclusive growth and a stronger global reputation for Bangladesh. She noted that collective responsibility and open dialogue are as vital as legal frameworks in addressing the challenges faced by entrepreneurs today.

Closing the session, FBCCI Administrator Md. Abdur Rahim Khan assured participants that the FBCCI would formally place the private sector’s recommendations to the government. He called upon entrepreneurs to uphold responsible business conduct.

The event was attended by former FBCCI directors, general body members, FBCCI Secretary General Md. Alamgir, Head of FBCCI International Affairs Wing Mr. Md. Zafar Iqbal ndc, Adviser of FBCCI Safety Council Brig. Gen. (retd.) Abu Nayeem Md. Shahidullah, leaders from IBFB, and leaders from different chambers and associations.