Q: Do you believe that the announcement of the national election date in February will increase investor confidence?
A: The announcement of the national election date has brought the desired clarity to the country’s political landscape, which sends a very positive signal for the business and investment environment. No country can ensure a smooth flow of investment without political stability. If uncertainty persists for long, both domestic and foreign investors refrain from making decisions, which negatively impacts production, employment, and revenue generation.
Q: Do you think investment and business activities will pick up before the election, or will entrepreneurs wait for the new government?
A: Some momentum can be expected before the election. However, most investors will continue to monitor the political situation. Final investment decisions will depend on the election outcome — which party comes to power, what their economic vision is, and how committed they are to creating a business-friendly environment.
Q: What policy measures do you think would increase the confidence of domestic and foreign investors?
A: Merely announcing a timeline is not enough. Peaceful political programs must be ensured so that no violence occurs.
The rule of law, administrative transparency, and anti-corruption efforts must be emphasised. Good governance must be ensured in the economic sector, especially in banks and financial institutions. Additionally, old business laws such as the Companies Act, Foreign Exchange Regulatory Act, and Customs Act need to be modernised.
Q: How much priority do you think political parties will give to economic reforms and investment in their election manifestos?
A: Political parties should prioritise investment-friendly policies, job creation, and skill development for youth in their manifestos.
It’s not about making promises — it’s about presenting realistic and measurable plans that can earn investors’ trust. An electoral roadmap is not just political; it carries an economic message as well, offering a glimpse of future potential to both domestic and foreign investors.
Q: What are the main reasons Bangladesh is falling behind in global trade competition? What can be done to overcome this?
A: Bangladesh is lagging in global trade primarily due to weak infrastructure, complicated customs procedures, and sluggish logistics systems. As a result, our exporters are struggling to compete in international markets. To change this, a coordinated strategy is essential.
Signing trade agreements alone is not enough; customs reform, transparency in the clearance process, and the development of research-based, timely policies are also required.
Q: How optimistic are you about Bangladesh’s economic future?
A: I am quite optimistic about Bangladesh’s economic future. The country is now on a path where politics and economics are strengthening each other. If this trend continues, new doors of opportunity will open for us. Political stability will boost investor confidence, which will positively impact both domestic and foreign investment.
At the same time, employment opportunities will grow, and economic growth will accelerate. If we can now ensure structural reforms, good governance, and stability in policy-making, Bangladesh could become a stronger and more competitive economy in just a few years.
Courtesy: Kalerkantho
Bd-praitdin English/ ANI