On Tuesday, December 10, 2024, the Board of Directors of the Japan-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JBCCI) held a courtesy meeting with H.E. Mr. Sk Bashir Uddin, Hon’ble Advisor to the Ministry of Commerce, at his office. The delegation of JBCCI was led by Mr. Tareq Rafi Bhuiyan (Jun), President of JBCCI.
The discussions centered on advancing the ongoing negotiations between Bangladesh and Japan concerning the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) and highlighting JBCCI’s initiatives and priorities. JBCCI’s recently published Study Report on EPA was shared with Hon’ble Advisor.
During the meeting, the JBCCI board emphasized the need for reforms in critical areas such as financial regulations, the business environment, taxation policies, and other challenges affecting business operations, the board presented several key recommendations, including:
- Inclusion of JBCCI representation in EPA related committees and activities.
- Reviewing and simplifying the complex tax system and addressing inconsistent taxation policies.
- Streamlining and increasing transparency in administrative procedures, including customs clearance and business registration.
- Simplifying criteria for work permits and visas, as well as easing the security clearance process for expatriates.
- Relaxing financial regulations to promote ease of doing business.
- Addressing policy inconsistencies to foster a stable business climate.
- Restructuring government agencies to enhance efficiency.
- Extending the renewal tenure for trade licenses.
H.E. Mr. Sk Bashir Uddin expressed his appreciation to the JBCCI board for their insights and assured that the government would take appropriate steps to address the highlighted concerns.
