The speakers at a seminar emphasized the need to address discriminatory tax structures for local companies in public procurement processes to ensure fair competition between domestic and foreign firms. The seminar, titled “Public Procurement Act-Challenges and Opportunities,” was organized by the International Business Forum of Bangladesh.

State Minister for Planning Md Shahiduzzaman Sarker, speaking as the chief guest, highlighted the government's efforts to enhance transparency in procurement through the introduction of an electronic government procurement system (E-GP). He acknowledged that while E-GP has improved transparency, more measures are needed to ensure greater accountability.

Sarker emphasized the importance of having individuals with high moral standards to uphold transparency and accountability in procurement processes. He pledged to address the recommendations, complaints, and demands put forward by stakeholders during the seminar.

Mohammed Shoheler Rahman Chowdhury, CEO of the Bangladesh Public Procurement Authority (BPPA), discussed efforts to transition the procurement system entirely to the E-GP system. He outlined ongoing initiatives to address challenges in procurement and simplify the complaints resolution process.

Dr. Zafrul Islam, Former Lead Procurement Specialist of the World Bank, highlighted concerns regarding conflict of interest in the procurement process. He emphasized the need for stakeholder consultation in the formulation of procurement laws and rules.

Muhammad Abdul Mazid, Adviser to the IBFB and former NBR Chairman, suggested reforms in the financial year to reduce waste in resource and time for implementing construction projects. He called for equal taxation for local and foreign companies to eliminate existing discriminatory tax structures.

Other speakers, including MS Siddiqui, Muhammad Shahadat Hossain Siddiquee, SM Khorshed Alam, and Rabiul Alam, addressed various aspects of the procurement process, stressing the importance of competitiveness, equity, and consideration of capacity in awarding contracts.

In his welcome address, IBFB President Humayun Rashid underscored the significance of the seminar in addressing challenges and exploring opportunities in public procurement practices.