Press Release

Commerce Minister Announces Regulatory Reforms to Ease Business

Please find attached a press release regarding a call-on meeting held today at the Secretariat between a delegation from Business Initiative Leading Development (BUILD) and the Honourable Minister of Commerce, Khandaker Abdul Muktadir.

During the meeting, the Honourable Minister announced significant regulatory reforms, including the introduction of a 12-month provisional license for essential clearances to simplify the start-up process for entrepreneurs. The discussion also covered modernising the jute sector, expanding bonded warehouse facilities, and developing a National Traceability Strategy to maintain global market competitiveness.

We would appreciate it if you could cover this news in your esteemed publication. The full text of the press release is provided below and attached for your convenience.

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A National Traceability Strategy Needs to Be Formulated for Better Market Access to EU

We are sharing a press release regarding a high-level policy discussion held today, March 12, 2026, at the Ministry of Commerce—the meeting, chaired by Additional Secretary (Export) Md Abdur Rahim Khan, focused on the urgent need for a National Traceability Strategy to address the European Union’s new Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).

Key findings from the ‘Gap Analysis and Needs Assessment’ conducted by BUILD reveal that:

  • Approximately 85% of Bangladesh’s exports will fall under the new EU regulations within 36 months.
  • The absence of a digital traceability system puts an estimated USD 0.36-1.20 billion in annual export revenue at risk.
  • The Digital Product Passport (DPP) is set to become a mandatory requirement for entering the EU market.

We have attached the full press release in both English and Bengali, along with a high-resolution photograph of the event for your consideration.

We would be grateful if you could cover this significant development in your esteemed publication. Should you require any further information or wish to arrange an interview with our representatives, please do not hesitate to reach out.

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BUILD Congratulates New Government, Stresses Priority on Economic Recovery and Structural Reforms

Please find the attached press release from Business Initiative Leading Development (BUILD) extending its heartfelt congratulations to the newly formed government of Bangladesh.

In the statement, BUILD emphasises the urgency of addressing prevailing economic challenges and restoring macroeconomic stability by managing inflation and improving liquidity within the banking sector. The organisation also urges the government to accelerate reforms that reduce the cost of doing business and remove regulatory bottlenecks to navigate the upcoming challenges of LDC graduation.

Furthermore, BUILD calls for targeted policy support for MSMEs and highlights the importance of attracting both domestic and foreign direct investment to ensure sustainable growth.

We would greatly appreciate it if you could publish this news in your esteemed media outlet.

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BUILD Releases 6th Edition of Simplified Business Licensing Guide to Support SME Expansion and Growth

We are pleased to share a press release regarding the publication of the 6th Edition of Business Start-Up Licenses: A Regulatory Guide, jointly released by Business Initiative Leading Development (BUILD) and the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA).

In an effort to further the ‘Ease of Doing Business’ in Bangladesh, this updated edition serves as a comprehensive roadmap for local and foreign investors. It covers 416 licenses across 53 regulatory agencies, providing much-needed transparency regarding fees, documentation, and processing times.

We have attached the full press release for your kind consideration and coverage in your esteemed media. This information will be highly beneficial to your readers in the business and investment community.

Thank you for your continued support in promoting Bangladesh’s economic growth.

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BUILD Urges Policy Reforms in Duty-Free Import Facilities for Non-bonded Exporters to Drive Export Diversification

We are pleased to share a press release regarding a high-level dialogue organised by BUILD today, January 8, 2026, titled “Duty-Free Import of Raw Materials beyond Bonded Warehouse Facility.”

The dialogue focused on the implementation challenges of the recently announced SRO 384/2025, which allows non-bonded exporters to import raw materials duty-free on condition of a 100% bank guarantee. Key highlights from the event include:

  • Financial Hurdles: The 100% bank guarantee requirement acts as a significant barrier for SMEs and small-scale exporters who lack sufficient collateral.
  • Sectoral Scope: BUILD urged the government to expand the facility beyond the current eight sectors to include all 1,200+ products with export potential.
  • Strategic Recommendations: The study presented by BUILD advocates a transition toward international models such as “Duty-Suspension” and “Deferred Duty,” alongside the full automation of customs and VAT systems (ASYCUDA and iVAS).
  • Government Response: Representatives from the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and Ministry-level officials engaged in the discussion, noting that the policy will be refined based on industry feedback to support LDC graduation goals.

Please find the full press release in English and Bengali for your kind consideration and coverage in your esteemed news outlet. We have also attached a photograph and BUILD’s logo for your use.

Thank you for your continued support in highlighting critical policy issues for Bangladesh’s economic development.

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15th PSDPCC Highlights Business Process Simplification Through Digitisation

Please find attached the press release on the 15th Meeting of the Private Sector Development Policy Coordination Committee (PSDPCC), held on 28 October 2025 at the Chief Adviser’s Office (CAO).

The meeting, chaired by M. Siraj Uddin Miah, Principal Secretary to the Chief Adviser, underscored the need to revisit trade and investment policies and to simplify business processes through digitisation to enhance competitiveness and address post-LDC-graduation challenges.

We would appreciate the publication of this news in your esteemed media. Please let us know if you need any further information or quotes.

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13th FSDWC Meeting: Bangladesh Bank to Align Credit Guarantee Scheme With CMSME Master Circular

BUILD is pleased to share its latest press release titled “Bangladesh Bank to Align Credit Guarantee Scheme with CMSME Master Circular — Deputy Governor Announces at BUILD’s 13th FSDWC Meeting.”

The press release covers key discussions and insights from BUILD’s 13th Financial Sector Development Working Committee (FSDWC) meeting, held on 15 October 2025, chaired by Nurun Nahar, deputy governor of Bangladesh Bank. The session highlighted the upcoming alignment of the credit guarantee scheme with the CMSME master circular and shared updates on credit disbursement trends, challenges, and policy recommendations to strengthen CMSME financing in Bangladesh.

Please find the full press release in both Bangla and English attached for your consideration and potential coverage.

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BUILD’s TDS Dialogue: NBR Chairman Hints at Automated TDS Refund System in the Coming Months

Attached is a press release regarding BUILD’s dialogue titled “Policy Reform Requirements for Non-Adjustable TDS”.

The press release highlights key takeaways from the event, including the chairman of the National Board of Revenue’s announcement that the board is likely to automate the tax deducted at source (TDS) refund system in the coming months. It also features insights from other experts on the need to rationalise TDS rates and simplify the tax structure to improve the business environment in Bangladesh.

BUILD believes this event holds significant public interest, especially for stakeholders in industry, legal reform and entrepreneurship.

BUILD kindly requests your support in covering this important dialogue through your esteemed platform.

Please find attached the full press release (Bangla and English) for your consideration. Should you require any further details or quotes, BUILD would be happy to provide them.

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BUILD Dialogue on GI Potential for Socio-Economic Benefits and Export Diversification

On Thursday, 11 September 2025, Business Initiative Leading Development (BUILD) hosted a dialogue on the significant potential of geographical indication (GI) products for Bangladesh’s export market. The meeting, which included key government and private sector stakeholders, focused on critical issues such as the need for international accreditation and proper certification to boost the export of GI products such as Jamdani, Hilsa and Muslin.

The discussion highlighted several key recommendations, including the immediate approval of a national GI tag and a strategy to commercialise and market high-potential GI products. BUILD believes this is a crucial topic for businesses and economic development in Bangladesh.

BUILD also believes this event holds significant public interest, especially for stakeholders in industry, legal reform and entrepreneurship.

BUILD kindly requests your support in covering this important dialogue through your esteemed platform.

Please find attached the full press release (Bangla and English) for your consideration. Should you require any further details or quotes, BUILD would be happy to provide them.

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BUILD Expresses Profound Shock at the Milestone College Tragedy

Business Initiative Leading Development (BUILD) is deeply saddened by the recent tragic crash of a Bangladesh Air Force aircraft at Milestone School and College, which claimed the lives of numerous innocent children, teachers, and a brave pilot, while injuring many others. This is a profound national tragedy that has shaken the entire nation.

On behalf of BUILD, heartfelt condolences are extended to the bereaved families, survivors, and all those affected by this devastating event. BUILD’s thoughts are with them during this unimaginably difficult time.

BUILD also takes this moment to acknowledge and thank the first responders, medical professionals, and volunteers for their swift and selfless actions in the face of tragedy.

Please find the statement (Bangla and English) attached for your reference and circulation.

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