Talha Bin Habib

The country's apex trade body has taken an initiative to strengthen business associations helping those contribute to the country's economic growth process, officials said.

Under the move, the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) has streamlined its different standing committees looking into the problems and prospects of different business associations.

There are around 300 business associations in the country, which have been facing various problems and this keeps those from contributing to the economy.

The sectors such as readymade garment (RMG), pharmaceuticals, steel, ship building, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), leather and leather goods, jute and jute goods, plastics, ceramics, information and communication technology (ICT), light engineering, printing, packaging, and textiles are the most important, contributing much to the country's economic growth.

When contacted, president of the FBCCI Md Shafiul Islam (Mohiuddin) said that they have convened a meeting with the different business associations today (Saturday) to discuss the present problems of business associations and their prospects.

"We are holding a meeting with different business associations on Saturday to discuss the problems they face and will discuss the wayout," he said.

He said the problems of the sectors would be resolved on a priority basis.

He said that the FBCCI will stress the need for wider engagement between the FBCCI and the business associations.

The FBCCI plays an important role in sorting out the problems of business associations and provides guidance to the bodies helping those function and flourish.