In a significant move toward fostering an inclusive economic landscape, the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) convened a high-level consultative meeting on January 12, 2026. Held at the FBCCI office in Motijheel, Dhaka, the session focused on the critical themes of capacity building and skill development, drawing together a diverse cohort of women business leaders, government officials, and representatives from development agencies.

The dialogue, presided over by Mr. Md. Abdur Rahim Khan, Administrator of FBCCI, provided a vital platform for women entrepreneurs to vocalize the systemic obstacles hindering their growth at the grassroots level.

Participants emphasized the urgent necessity for policy interventions, specifically advocating for streamlined access to credit through simplified loan terms and the modernization of regulatory documents, such as the issuance of trade licenses in English to facilitate global integration. Furthermore, the gathering called for strategic incentives, including preferential booth allocations and discounts at exhibitions organized by the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), alongside a robust framework for both domestic and international technical training.

The strategic depth of the meeting was further enhanced by a keynote address from Tanvir Ahmed, Senior Advisor of the She-Trades Initiative of Asia Women, who provided global insights into female economic empowerment. Speakers underscored a unified, multi-agency commitment to dismantling barriers. By synthesizing the expertise of business leaders and policymakers, the FBCCI continues to lead the charge in equipping women entrepreneurs with the competitive tools required for the modern marketplace.

Esteemed guests in the dialogue includes - the President of Women Entrepreneurs Association of Bangladesh (WEAB) Mrs. Nasreen Fatema Awal, the CEO of Business Initiative Leading Development (BUILD) Ms. Ferdaus Ara Begum, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Industries Ms. Sultana Yasmin, Additional Director of the Bangladesh Bank Ms. Afrina Nasreen, Gender Team Leader of UNDP Bangladesh Ms. Sharmin Islam, the Deputy Managing Director of the SME Foundation Ms. Farzana Khan, Former Director of FBCCI Mr. Giasuddin Chowdhury (Khokon), President of Bangladesh CNG Machineries Importers Association Mr. Zakir Hossain Noyon, Secretary General of FBCCI Mr. Md. Alamgir, Head of International Affairs Wing Mr. Zafar Iqbal ndc, Advisor of the FBCCI Safety Council Brig. Gen. (Retd.) Abu Nayeem Md. Shahidullah and others.