A seminar here on Sunday heard complaints that excessive tax and customs harassment of businesspeople are obstructing the growth of Bangladesh’s foreign trade and hurting businesses.

The seminar, organized by Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) at its auditorium, reviewed the economy of Bangladesh during the second quarter of the January-June 2022 from the perspective of the private sector.

DCCI President Rizwan Rahman gave a presentation on the topic in the seminar.

Mohammad Hatem, executive president of Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), said the honest businesses involved in export and import of goods and services are mostly harassed at customs and National Board of Revenue.

Hatem said they face a number of hurdles in doing honest business. “These are our main obstacles,” he noted.

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"We need to call Chattogram Customs, Dhaka Customs and the Commissioner of North-South Customs almost every day to rescue the businesspeople from harassment. Transports and goods are detained on various pretexts. Why do they do it? It’s irritating."

He also said customs and NBR instead should pursue the corrupt businesses and detect those who commit crimes.

Shamsul Alam, state minister for planning, spoke as the chief guest, while former FBCCI president Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin was the special guest.