The government is preparing a series of reforms aimed at making it easier for people to participate in economic activities, with a focus on reducing business barriers, improving public services and creating new opportunities for small entrepreneurs.
Speaking at a roundtable discussion Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said the country`s economic system needs to become more open and accessible so that people from all backgrounds can benefit from growth and development.
He said many businesses have faced difficulties due to complex regulations and lengthy approval processes, which have increased operating costs over the years. To address these challenges, the government has begun reviewing existing rules and plans to remove unnecessary restrictions that hinder business activities.
According to the minister, economic opportunities in the past were often concentrated among a limited group, while smaller entrepreneurs struggled to compete under an increasingly complicated regulatory environment. He said the government wants to create a level playing field where businesses of all sizes can grow and succeed.
Khosru also highlighted the contribution of rural artisans and traditional producers, including blacksmiths, potters, weavers and handicraft workers. Despite their long-standing role in the economy, many have not seen significant improvements in their livelihoods due to limited access to finance, markets and policy support, he said.
To help these groups, the government is considering the establishment of a large "Creative District" near the capital. The proposed project, planned on around 160 acres of land, would provide support services for creative entrepreneurs and small producers.
The minister said plans are also being developed to offer easier access to loans, raw materials, product design support, branding assistance and marketing opportunities. Efforts are also being considered to help local producers reach international buyers through online platforms.
Referring to successful international examples, he said Bangladesh has strong potential to adopt a "One Village, One Product" approach, allowing different regions to develop specialised products and strengthen local economies.
As part of wider reforms, the government is working on a unified approval system that would allow entrepreneurs to submit applications through a single platform. Relevant agencies would then coordinate the approval process, reducing delays and administrative burdens. Authorities are also considering time limits for licensing and registration procedures to improve efficiency.
Khosru said the combined focus on deregulation, digitalisation and support for grassroots entrepreneurs is intended to build an economy where more people can participate and share the benefits of national development.
The event was also attended by Prime Minister`s Special Assistant on Investment and Capital Market Affairs Tanvir Gani and Bangladesh Cricket Board ad-hoc committee member and BNP Foreign Affairs Committee member Israfil Khasru.
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