In a move towards achieving smart governance, Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Mayor Barrister Sheikh Fazle Noor Tapas announced the issuance and renewal of five-year trade licenses during a ceremony held at the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) office on Monday.
Mayor Barrister Sheikh Tapas emphasized the vision of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to build a smart Bangladesh by 2041.
He stated, “Through the issuance and renewal of five-year trade licenses, DSCC has taken another step towards ensuring smart governance.”
One of the key benefits of this initiative is the elimination of the need for business owners to endure harassment during the trade license application process.
Mayor Barrister Sheikh Tapas highlighted the transition to an online application system, saving valuable time for entrepreneurs. “A businessman can renew his trade license in just 10 minutes,” he noted, emphasizing the transition to international standards.
To further prevent harassment and streamline the process, trade licenses will now be issued for five years, benefiting all traders under the jurisdiction of South City Corporation.
Mayor Barrister Sheikh Tapas clarified that this benefit extends to all businesses in the area, not limited to members of the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Both Bengali and English language versions of the trade licenses will be available to accommodate the diverse business community.
Mayor Barrister Sheikh Tapas also discussed the development of a suitable investment environment in the Shyampur Industrial Area. He highlighted the extensive infrastructure improvements, including widened roads and improved sewer systems, as part of the city’s master plan.
MCCI President Saiful Islam commended the move, stating that the previous annual trade license renewal process had subjected traders to unnecessary harassment.
He credited MCCI’s efforts in working with policymakers, the government, and the Mayor of the South City to extend the trade license period to five years.
“Hopefully, through this, we will move forward in ease of doing business,” he said.
The program was conducted by MCCI General Secretary Farooq Ahmed and featured the participation of the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation, Mizanur Rahman, and Chief Revenue Officer Ariful Haque, among others.
This initiative reflects a significant step forward in Dhaka’s journey towards becoming a smart city and fostering a business-friendly environment that aligns with the country's vision of development.
