BNP gives investors assurance of policy consistency

Pledging to maintain a long-term transparent trade environment, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has assured investors of introducing an 'Investor Protection Regulations' to safeguard their rights.

"We're giving you assurance of maintaining policy consistency," said BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury while talking to BSS today (9 April) at the 'Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025' being held at Hotel InterContinental here.

"We will introduce a necessary Investor Protection Regulations to guarantee non-arbitrary treatment, ensure tax stability, and safeguard investor rights. This legal framework will provide institutional assurance and signal Bangladesh's long-term commitment to a fair and transparent business environment. We are also giving assurance of policy consistency to investors" said Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, a leading businessman in the country. 

Talking to BSS, Amir Khasru said to address lack of policy consistency, which often hampers long-term planning and financial forecasting, BNP emphasises the need for clear and stable policies regarding customs duties, tax rates, and export incentives.

"Abrupt regulatory changes that disrupt cost projections must be avoided to foster a predictable investment environment. Additionally, maintaining stability in foreign exchange policies is crucial to ensure smooth profit repatriation and the seamless import of essential goods and services," he added.

Amir Khasru said BNP proposes a simplified regulatory architecture by consolidating overlapping agency responsibilities under a single-window investment authority operated by BIDA.

"This authority will offer time-bound services such as company registration within 48 hours and work permits within 7 days. We will ensure consistency in taxes, fees, and tariffs across all sectors, supported by digital one-stop services for business registration, regulatory predictability will be maintained by avoiding sudden policy changes that disrupt cost structures. Customs clearance processes, particularly at Chattogram and Mongla ports, will be automated and documentation requirements minimized. These measures are aimed at reducing bureaucratic red tape and significantly boosting investor confidence," he added.

He said BNP envisions BIDA as a legally empowered facilitator across all departments, including customs, tax, law enforcement, and banking.

"To further streamline coordination, each FDI project will be assigned a dedicated 'FDI Captain' who will serve as a single point of contact throughout the investment lifecycle. These reforms are designed to eliminate unnecessary delays and administrative friction, ensuring a seamless experience for investors," he added.

To build lasting trust, he said, BNP proposes the establishment of a 24/7 investor help desk and a formal escalation system under BIDA.

"This mechanism will promptly address grievances and support investors throughout their engagement with Bangladesh. Such a system will not only enhance transparency but will also encourage reinvestment and long-term partnerships," he added.

Amir Khasru, also former commerce minister, said recognising the importance of talent mobility, BNP will remove or relax arbitrary caps on expatriate hiring.

"Work permits and visa for investors and essential personnel will be fast-tracked and processed within ten days. We will also introduce long-term, multiple-entry investor visas valid for up to five years. These reforms will attract top global talent and facilitate critical knowledge and technology transfer," he added.

He said BNP will ensure that compliant foreign businesses can repatriate profits within 30 days without unnecessary interference from the central bank.

"We will also negotiate more bilateral investment treaties and double taxation avoidance agreements. Additionally, we will digitise VAT and customs refund processes to accelerate reimbursements. This will strengthen Bangladesh's image as a secure and predictable investment destination," he added.

To enhance ease of doing business, he said, BNP proposes granting full autonomy to SEZ and EPZ authorities, enabling them to issue all required clearances including those related to utilities, labor, environment, and customs.

"We will develop SEZs with dedicated infrastructure and fully digitize zone approval processes to eliminate manual intervention. Our aim is to establish a 'plug-and-play' environment that allows investors to operate from day one," he added.

He said BNP will partner with foreign investors to co-develop technical and vocational training institutes to bridge the skills gap in engineering, IT, and advanced manufacturing.

"We will also provide salary subsidies for companies that employ locally trained professionals. These initiatives will foster sustainable employment and reduce over-reliance on expatriate workers," he added.