Business leaders have urged the government to take immediate action to improve the law and order situation and ensure energy security as both are crucial for fostering economic growth and industrial stability.

Speaking at the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) conference titled “Private Sector Outlook: Expectations and Priorities” on Saturday, they said the current law and order situation is a major impediment to business operations.

Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed was the chief guest at the conference.

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“Unprecedented corruption in the banking sector has affected financial stability. However, ongoing reforms and a focus on inflation control offer hope for improvement,” he said.

“To reduce business costs and sustain industrial productivity the government must ensure uninterrupted gas and electricity supply while improving law enforcement,” said DCCI President Ashraf Ahmed.

He also called for tax administration reforms, business process automation, and lower interest rates to support the private sector, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

BKMEA President Mohammad Hatem said a zero-tolerance approach to law enforcement issues and suggested delaying Bangladesh’s LDC graduation to better prepare for future challenges.

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Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin called for enhanced collaboration between the government and the private sector to strengthen security measures and economic policies.

He stressed the need for boosting trade capacity in anticipation of LDC graduation and proposed extending the timeline for better preparedness.

BTMA President Shawkot Aziz Russell pointed out the high costs of imported energy and urged the government to invest in domestic gas production and efficient waste management systems.