Women Entrepreneurs in Bangladesh Advocate for SME Support in Pre-Budget Talks

In a recent pre-budget consultation, women entrepreneurs strongly argued for critical fiscal measures targeted at fostering small and medium-sized companies (SMEs), empowering women in business, and enhancing trade dynamics.

The suggestions were sponsored by representatives of the Bangladesh Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BWCCI) and the Women Entrepreneurs Development Network (WEND). Their ideas mostly centered on tax breaks for SMEs, higher tax-free thresholds, and greater freedom in participation in trade fairs. These proposals sought to spark entrepreneurship and strengthen women's participation in the corporate world.

Abu Hena Md Rahmatul Muneem, head of the National Board of Revenue (NBR), presided over the meeting. He led a varied group of stakeholders, including members of the Bangladesh-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCCI), the Bangladesh-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BICCI), and the Anti-Tobacco Media Alliance (ATMA).

The consultation emphasized the necessity of building a supportive environment for female entrepreneurs, acknowledging their critical role in economic growth and innovation. The suggested changes, if included in the budget, have the potential to pave the path for a more inclusive and dynamic economic scene in Bangladesh.

The event emphasized the combined efforts of government institutions, business chambers, and advocacy groups to shape policies that promote entrepreneurship and gender equality in the business sector.