The election of at least 10 housing sector representatives to the 13th Jatiya Sangsad has raised fresh hopes for a turnaround in the country’s long-stagnant real estate industry.
The Real Estate and Housing Association of Bangladesh (REHAB) believes the new parliamentary representation could help unlock long-awaited policy reforms and restore momentum in the sector.
REHAB expressed its optimism at a board meeting held at a city hotel in Dhaka on Monday, where newly elected lawmakers linked to the organisation were formally congratulated. Leaders of the association said the increased presence of housing sector voices in parliament has created a new window of opportunity.
They noted that direct representation would allow industry-specific challenges to be raised more effectively at the national level, paving the way for realistic and coordinated policy action.
Among the newly elected lawmakers associated with REHAB are representatives from constituencies in Lakshmipur, Narayanganj, Noakhali, Bogura, Narsingdi, Barishal, Dhaka, Cumilla and Netrokona. REHAB leaders said such wide geographic representation strengthens the sector’s collective voice.
At the meeting, REHAB highlighted several long-standing challenges facing the housing industry, including a complex tax regime, urban planning constraints, implementation of the Detailed Area Plan (DAP), delays in utility connections, and cumbersome approval procedures.
They said these issues have contributed to prolonged stagnation in the sector, affecting investment, project implementation and home buyers’ confidence.
REHAB President Md Wahiduzzaman said the election of 10 members from the REHAB family to parliament was a source of pride for the organisation. “This achievement goes beyond individual success and signals a stronger institutional footing for the housing sector,” he said.
He added that the real estate sector plays a crucial role in the national economy by creating employment, driving growth in construction and allied industries, and contributing significantly to government revenue.
“With representation in parliament, the sector’s justified demands and development potential are more likely to receive due policy attention,” Wahiduzzaman said.
The REHAB president also extended advance congratulations to the new government, expected to be formed within the next two days, and conveyed greetings to all victorious political parties.
REHAB leaders expressed hope that the newly elected lawmakers would use their experience and leadership to help strengthen the economy and support sustainable growth in the housing sector.
Vice-presidents and directors of REHAB were present at the meeting, which concluded with expectations that the new MPs would play an active role in shaping policies critical to the country’s development trajectory.