Dhaka, March 28, (v7N) – The Bangladesh government is finalizing new rules under the Trade Organizations Act 2023 to ensure a more democratic election process for trade bodies, including the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI). Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin confirmed that the reforms aim to eliminate political influence and promote fair elections.

Under the proposed changes, the number of FBCCI board directors will be reduced, with a shift toward direct elections for key leadership positions, replacing the current nomination-based system. The Ministry of Commerce will no longer have representatives on the FBCCI board, further ensuring independence from government influence. The new framework will also enforce stricter criteria for trade associations, requiring a TIN certificate, trade license, and physical office for official recognition.

The push for reform comes after widespread calls for transparency within trade organizations. Since August 2024, demands for restructuring led to the resignation of FBCCI President Mahbubul Alam and the dissolution of the board in September 2024. The government has since taken steps to reshape the election process and remove inactive or redundant trade associations.

With the rules in the final stage, the government expects to implement the new election system soon. If successful, the reforms could strengthen Bangladesh’s business sector, ensuring that trade bodies operate under a truly representative and transparent structure.

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