Economy
DCCI Urges Immediate Law and Order Restoration
On behalf of the business community, the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) has called for immediate measures to restore law and order in Dhaka and across the country.
The DCCI has also recommended the swift formation and declaration of an interim government in a lawful manner to address the current law and order situation and mitigate economic damages, according to a press release issued today.
The chamber urged all relevant parties to take necessary actions to achieve this.
DCCI emphasized that an interim government is crucial to restoring the democratic election process and returning the country to its people and their elected representatives.
In light of recent political unrest and challenges, the Dhaka Chamber highlighted the urgent need for a quick restoration of law and order and requested all necessary actions to resume normal economic activities as soon as possible.
The nationwide economic operations have been significantly disrupted. Therefore, immediate measures are essential to restore law and order and recover from the substantial damage.
The recent events have severely impacted people’s lives and the economy, disrupting daily living and economic conditions. Without effective measures, supply chain disruptions will cause further damage and increase public suffering.
It is imperative to resume economic operations to their fullest extent for the greater good of the nation. The private sector, a key driver of the economy, requires prompt and substantial support to overcome the setbacks caused by recent disruptions. Addressing law, order, and economic stability is of urgent and utmost priority for the country.
Moving forward, a conducive environment must be established to facilitate economic recovery characterized by political and regulatory certainty. By fostering a stable political environment, DCCI can rebuild business confidence and activities both domestically and internationally.
DCCI called for collective efforts from all stakeholders, including the imminent interim government, the private sector, and political parties, to mitigate the impact of recent losses and damages through a rigorous and sustainable economic recovery process.
The Dhaka Chamber is also committed to working closely with all relevant stakeholders, including the forthcoming interim government and others, through coordinated efforts to overcome current challenges and achieve the much-needed prosperity of the nation.
Expatriate Bangladeshis sent approximately US$ 2.11 billion in remittances during the first 28 days of September in the fiscal year 2024-25, according to data released by Bangladesh Bank on 29 September.
Of this total, state-owned and specialised banks handled $679.10 million, while private banks received $1.43 billion in remittances.
Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has vowed to expedite reforms and hold elections swiftly. Yunus, who recently assumed the role after the collapse of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year administration, expressed his commitment during an interview with Tokyo-based news outlet NHK WORLD in New York on Sunday. He was attending the United Nations General Assembly at the time.
Following mass student-led protests that ended Hasina’s long-standing rule in August, Yunus stepped in as the leader of the caretaker government. Known for founding Grameen Bank, an institution providing microloans to the underprivileged, Yunus, along with the bank, earned the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his efforts in poverty alleviation.
During the interview, Yunus emphasized that the interim government’s primary mission is to implement reforms promptly and ensure elections are held as soon as the groundwork is complete. He underscored the importance of success, stating, “Failure is not something that we can accept.”
Addressing the pivotal role of students in the ousting of the Hasina administration, Yunus acknowledged the sacrifices made by young people, referring to their involvement as part of a “revolution.” He highlighted his intention to engage the younger generation in shaping policy.
Furthermore, Yunus called for continued support from Japan, Bangladesh’s largest donor, during this crucial transition period. He stressed that Japan’s assistance is vital to stabilizing Bangladesh’s economy and fostering a democratic foundation in the nation.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the Adviser for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, announced today that steps will be taken to restrict the use of polythene shopping bags to safeguard future generations.
Starting from October 1, polythene bags will be banned in shopping malls, followed by a ban in kitchen markets from November 1.
“Everyone must take responsibility and stop using polythene voluntarily. Action against polythene producers will begin from November 1,” Rizwana Hasan stated during a seminar.
The Department of Environment (DoE) organized the seminar to raise public awareness about alternatives to banned polythene bags.
Rizwana Hasan highlighted that the restriction on polythene will be executed in phases according to legal provisions, and discussions with shopping centers and store owners are ongoing to ensure a smooth transition.
She also announced plans to make the government secretariat a plastic-free zone by December.
Other speakers at the seminar included Environment Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed, DoE Director General Dr. Abdul Hamid, Director Rajinara Begum, President of the Shop Owners Association Muhammad Helal Uddin, and Md. Arifur Rahman Bhuiyan, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science at BUP. They discussed the harmful effects of polythene and the need for alternative products.
Earlier, Rizwana Hasan inaugurated a fair showcasing eco-friendly alternatives to polythene bags and visited 24 stalls. The fair featured products from government and private entrepreneurs, including reusable bags, jute bags, paper bags, and items made from bamboo and cane.
