Small traders have urged the government to ease value-added tax (VAT) management, stop harassment, and improve the law and order situation to ensure congenial business climate.

They made the demands at a view-exchanging meeting organised by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) in Dhaka today, according to a press release. 

Speaking at the event, DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed said the complex VAT and tax system, delay in export-import activities, weak law enforcement, and high bank interest rates are putting pressure on the economy, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME). 

He called for full automation of revenue management, a single-digit VAT rate, and easier credit access to boost industrialisation.

"Businessmen want to pay tax and VAT, but without harassment," he said, adding that rule of law is critical for smooth business operations.

Mohammad Mostafizur Rahman, additional director (SME and Special Programs Department) at the Bangladesh Bank, said the central bank has extended the term loan period to seven years and formed a Tk 25,000 crore fund to support SMEs at lower interest rates.

The programme took place at Tokyo Square Convention Centre in the capital's Mohammadpur. 

While speaking at the event, Md Milon Sheikh, additional commissioner of Customs, Excise and VAT Commissionerate (Dhaka West), said VAT collection has grown by 15–20 percent in Mohammadpur and nearby areas, and 98 percent of small businesses are now VAT-registered. 

He welcomed proposals for a VAT return app to reduce human contact and simplify collection procedures.

Md Alamgir Kabir, additional deputy commissioner of police (Tejgaon Zone), said the law and order situation has improved, citing recent arrests of many extortionists. 

Tania Sultana, additional deputy commissioner of police (Traffic, Tejgaon Zone), stressed the need for greater public awareness to ease traffic congestion.

DCCI senior leaders and representatives of several market associations also spoke, calling for better business conditions for traders.