Bangladesh moves first ever commercial court system

City Desk :

Bangladesh is taking a major step toward strengthening its legal framework and boosting investor confidence, with the Supreme Court and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) hosting a seminar in Sylhet on the Draft Commercial Court Ordinance 2025.

The day-long event brought together Chief Justice Dr. Syed Refaat Ahmed, EU Ambassador Michel Miller, senior judges, government officials, legal professionals, business leaders, and academics to shape the country’s first dedicated commercial court system, says a press relase.

Speaking at the event, Justice Zafar Ahmed, Judge, High Court Division, Supreme Court of Bangladesh, emphasised key features designed to bridge the justice gap, including summary judgments for frivolous claims, a two-tier threshold system to improve SME access, and structured settlement mechanisms. “The Draft Commercial Court Ordinance reflects a strong commitment to establishing a new covenant between commerce and justice, emphasising speed, efficiency, and integrity,” Justice Zafar Ahmed said.

Chief Justice Dr. Syed Rifat Ahmed, the seminar’s chief guest, described the Draft Ordinance as an “outstanding beginning” and a “powerful statement of intent” in bridging Bangladesh’s justice gap caused by delays. “Commercial justice must be right on time, not just right. The Draft Ordinance lays the foundation for a judiciary that is efficient, expert, and trustworthy,” said the Chief Justice. “Collaboration among judges, lawyers, policymakers, and business leaders is essential to create a new covenant of trust between commerce and justice, promoting speed, expertise, and integrity,” he added.