The Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) has sought the continuation of energy sector subsidies for at least until the end of 2023, as businesses are now navigating through troubled waters.
MCCI President Saiful Islam made the call at a view exchange with journalists at the MCCI office in Dhaka on Saturday.
He said, “The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) loan to Bangladesh is tied to several conditions, such as gradually cutting subsidies from a number of sectors, especially the energy industry.
“However, at present, the businessmen are going through a crisis because of the Covid-19 pandemic and Russia-Ukraine war. Therefore, we request the government to continue subsidies in the energy sector at least throughout this year.”
Saiful Islam also called for trade licenses to be issued for five years for boosting the ease of doing business.
He highlighted the need for good governance to continue the country’s development.
