Prof Yunus Pledges Full Support to Boost Industrial Growth

Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus assured business leaders today of the government’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s industrial growth and elevating it to new heights.

"We aim to take the industry to a new level," the Chief Adviser stated during a courtesy meeting with a business delegation at the State Guest House Jamuna. The delegation was led by Mahbubur Rahman, President of the International Chamber of Commerce, Bangladesh.

Dr Yunus highlighted that the recent student-led revolution has sparked new hope in the country, and the Interim Government is focused on implementing crucial reforms in industry, finance, and manufacturing.

The business leaders raised concerns about recent unrest in the garment and pharmaceutical sectors, attributing the incidents to possible instigation by external forces, including groups operating from abroad. They called for enhanced security in industrial areas, warning that the country's reputation could suffer if safety in factories is not ensured.

In response, Prof Yunus reassured the delegation of the government's commitment to safeguarding factories against violence and attacks. "It is our responsibility to protect the industry," he affirmed.

The Chief Adviser also encouraged industry leaders to adopt labour reforms in line with International Labour Organization (ILO) standards to attract more orders from top global brands and retailers.

"We have a great opportunity to implement vital reforms. Upgrading our labour laws to ILO standards is essential," he emphasized.

Dr Yunus added that discussions with top global CEOs had shown strong interest in investing in Bangladesh and placing more orders with the country's manufacturers.

Among those present at the meeting were Tapan Chowdhury, Managing Director of Square Pharmaceuticals; AK Azad, former President of the FBCCI; Mir Nasir Hossain, another former FBCCI President; Khondker Rafiqul Islam, President of the BGMEA; and Naser Ezaz Bijoy, Managing Director of Standard Chartered Bangladesh.