We’re pro-businesses instead of being pro-people: Titu
Staff Reporter :
Ahasanul Islam (Titu), the State Minister of the Ministry of Commerce, on Wednesday remarked that the government has shifted its focus to being business-friendly rather than people-friendly, while businesses have reciprocated by becoming more aligned with government interests.
“In the 1980s and 1990s, we witnessed business apex bodies preparing like warriors for negotiations with the government over policymaking.
However, nowadays, these bodies tend to align with the government, and conversely, the government leans towards being business-friendly rather than prioritizing the welfare of the people,” noted State Minister Ahasanul Islam (Titu) during a meeting at Motijheel, organized by the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) at its first tri-monthly lunch ceremony.
MCCI President Kamran T. Rahman chaired the meeting, which was attended by former and current Presidents, Directors of the chamber, and other business leaders.
The State Minister emphasized that while he supports favorable policies for businesses, negotiations with the government should precede any concessions.
Furthermore, he urged businesses to keep commodity prices low during the holy month of Ramadan, citing the tradition observed in Muslim countries where prices are reduced to facilitate fasting.
He implored businesses in Bangladesh to refrain from exploiting this period for profit and instead prioritize affordability for consumers.
Addressing corporate social responsibility (CSR), the State Minister urged businesses to assist employees by providing essential commodities at lower prices during Ramadan.
Additionally, he highlighted the government’s efforts to diversify export baskets, focusing on jute, leather, and handicrafts. Plans include transparency in pricing through online platforms and revitalizing market management.
Regarding tax matters, the State Minister pledged to address issues of harassment from the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and proposed streamlining audits to avoid prolonged delays.
He also advocated for collaboration between businesses and the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection to ensure fair market practices.
To tackle inflation and ensure supply chain efficiency, efforts will be made to identify the root causes of price hikes and remove barriers to smooth supply.
