PPP chief calls for urgent overhaul of framework

Ashik Chowdhury, Chief Executive Officer of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Authority, has called for an urgent overhaul of Bangladesh's PPP framework, warning that without reform, the programme risks stagnation.

In an opinion piece published in The Business Standard, Chowdhury stated that weak implementation and missed opportunities have hindered PPP progress, despite its potential to drive infrastructure growth. "Over a decade into its existence, the PPP Authority remains stalled—without reform and expertise, its promise could turn into another broken ambition," he wrote.

He emphasised the need for stronger institutional support, deeper technical expertise, and talent sourced from both the public and private sectors. Chowdhury also suggested placing the PPP Authority under the Prime Minister's Office or the Ministry of Finance to provide it with greater authority and impact.

Citing successes such as the Dhaka Bypass Expressway, Chowdhury argued that PPPs can transform Bangladesh's infrastructure landscape if properly designed and implemented.