The Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) has called for timely, effective and long-term economic initiatives, backed by proper implementation, to maintain overall economic momentum and stability in 2026.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the chamber said that amid political tensions surrounding the national parliamentary election scheduled for February 12, safeguarding macroeconomic stability and business confidence must remain a top priority. DCCI urged the interim administration and all political stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, inclusive and credible election.
The chamber noted that political stability during and after the election is crucial to restoring the confidence of local entrepreneurs and foreign investors, and to supporting a durable economic recovery.
To accelerate recovery in the new year, DCCI stressed the need to improve law and order, ensure uninterrupted and affordable energy supply for industries, simplify business procedures and reduce the cost of doing business. It also emphasised strengthening investment-friendly infrastructure and policy support.
DCCI highlighted the importance of export diversification and targeted assistance to high-potential export sectors, along with easier access to finance for cottage, micro, small and medium enterprises (CMSMEs) and the development of skilled human resources.
The chamber warned that the ongoing energy crisis and high fuel prices are disrupting industrial production and weakening Bangladesh’s competitiveness in global markets. It reiterated the need for a predictable, long-term energy pricing policy, faster exploration of new gas fields, alternative energy import sources and expansion of long-term supply agreements.
Pressure on foreign exchange reserves and currency depreciation have also created challenges for the financial sector, affecting imports of energy and industrial raw materials, DCCI said. It suggested considering currency swap arrangements for essential imports and offering more effective incentives to boost remittance inflows.
DCCI further said that stronger fiscal discipline, improved efficiency in development project implementation, reduced reliance on bank borrowing and better governance could ease liquidity pressures in the financial system.
Expressing concern over rising government borrowing from banks, the chamber warned of potential crowding out of private sector credit, which could hurt investment and employment. It urged tax reforms to focus on automation, modernisation and broadening the tax base without harassing existing taxpayers.
In view of Bangladesh’s graduation from the least developed country category, DCCI stressed the need for careful preparation to sustain export growth. It called for prioritising free trade agreements and trade deals with regional economic blocs in the post-LDC period.
The chamber said export diversification, uninterrupted industrial production, stronger local industries, modern infrastructure, skilled manpower, technological upgrades and a rational tax and tariff structure will be key to sustaining economic growth in 2026.