PM Tarique Rahman Promises More Business Opportunities for All

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said the government is working to create a business-friendly environment that will allow entrepreneurs, traders and industrialists to expand their businesses and generate employment.

He made the remarks during the question-and-answer session on the fourth day of the second session of the 13th National Parliament and the first budget session on Wednesday (June 10). The session was chaired by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram.

Responding to a question from Comilla-10 lawmaker Md. Mobasher Alam, the Prime Minister said restoring economic discipline and rebuilding investor confidence are key priorities for the government.

He said the country's economy had been severely affected by corruption and money laundering, making economic reforms essential. The government’s first budget, scheduled to be presented on June 11, has been designed to support businesses of all sizes and sectors, he added.

"Our goal is to create opportunities for everyone to do business successfully and generate employment," the Prime Minister said.

To attract both domestic and foreign investment, the government has introduced several measures to simplify business and investment procedures. The Ministry of Commerce has taken a number of initiatives in this regard.

According to the Prime Minister, the import and export registration process is now being provided online more quickly through the Office of the Chief Controller of Imports and Exports.

He also said the Export Policy has been updated to promote a more investment-friendly environment, while work is underway to finalize the Import Policy Order 2026–2029 to facilitate easier market access for foreign investors.

The government has also taken steps to remove non-tariff barriers related to imports for export-oriented industries. The scope for importing goods on a Free of Cost (FOC) basis is being expanded for both bonded and non-bonded institutions.

In addition, import payment procedures are being simplified. Importers will be allowed to import through contracts without letters of credit (LCs), regardless of value limits.

The Prime Minister said Bangladesh is also implementing trade facilitation measures in line with World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements to make trade processes faster, more transparent and more efficient.