UNDP, BIAC convene seminar to advance commercial justice reform

A robust, efficient commercial justice system is crucial for catalysing investment, enhancing business confidence and accelerating Bangladesh's economic growth, leading jurists and development partners said at a Dhaka seminar.

The event, organised by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre (BIAC), convened legal experts, government officials, development partners, and private-sector stakeholders to address the need for swifter, more predictable mechanisms for resolving commercial disputes.

Chief guest Md Asaduzzaman, MP, underscored that foreign investors prioritise legal certainty, safety and protection from undue harassment.

Bangladesh's commercial justice system must become more pragmatic, efficient and responsive to investors' concerns. The Commercial Courts Act is a positive step forward, but requires further refinement through targeted amendments, enhanced judicial and legal training, and more robust arbitration mechanisms to fully realise the shared vision of the government, UNDP and international partners," he said.

Michael Miller, the EU's Ambassador to Bangladesh, noted the EU's support for Bangladesh's ongoing justice system reform.

"The European Union is encouraged to witness the transformation of Bangladesh's justice system and is proud to stand alongside Bangladesh in this journey," he said.

"Investors assess not only market size and labour availability, but also legal certainty, safety and the strength of the business environment. This is why the EU, in partnership with UNDP, strongly supported the establishment of commercial courts and economic opportunities protected by the rule of law," he added.

Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, said UNDP has continued to support the operationalisation of the Commercial Courts Act 2026, including by recommending digitalisation solutions to expedite, increase transparency and improve accessibility in commercial dispute resolution.

"Commercial courts are not simply a new institutional mechanism — they are essential to reinforcing confidence in the justice system and the broader business environment," he said.

Earlier, Justice Fatema Anwar, delivering her keynote address on commercial litigation and arbitration, emphasised the importance of timely and specialised dispute resolution mechanisms to meet the evolving needs of businesses and investors.

She noted that effective commercial courts and stronger arbitration systems could reduce delays, improve enforcement and bolster trust in the justice system.

The seminar also featured panel discussions on reforms to the Arbitration Act 2001 and implementation challenges associated with the Commercial Courts Act 2026.

Sessions explored enforcement mechanisms, institutional readiness and practical pathways to strengthen Bangladesh's commercial justice ecosystem.

Speakers underlined that a robust commercial justice framework is critical to improving investment in the private sector, private-sector growth, and enabling Bangladesh to strengthen its position in the graduation process following its graduation from least developed country status.