Editorial, News & commercial office:
55/A, H M Siddique Mansion (Level-7), Purana Paltan, Motijhel C/A, Dhaka-1000. Phone: +8802226640056,
e-mail: [email protected], [email protected]
A panel of experts has highlighted the importance of faster and more predictable commercial dispute resolution systems to build investor confidence and support private sector growth.
The call was made at a seminar organised by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre (BIAC) at a city hotel on Friday, said a press release.
During the event, the experts said that strengthening Bangladesh’s commercial justice system is essential for improving the business climate, attracting investment, and supporting economic growth.
Addressing the event as Chief Guest, Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman said, “As foreign investors seek safety, legal certainty, and protection from harassment, Bangladesh’s commercial justice system must become more practical, efficient, and responsive to their concerns.”
“The Commercial Courts Act is a good start, but we must reexamine and strengthen it through necessary amendments, improved judicial and legal training, and more effective arbitration mechanisms so that the shared vision of the government, UNDP, and our international partners can be fully realized,” he added.
Speaking as the special guest, Michael Miller, ambassador of the European Union to Bangladesh, said, “The European Union is encouraged to see that the transformation of Bangladesh’s justice system is already underway, and we are proud to stand alongside Bangladesh in this journey.”
“Investors look not only at market size and labour availability, but also at legal certainty, safety, and a strong business environment—this is why the EU, together with UNDP, strongly supported the establishment of commercial courts and economic opportunity protected by the rule of law,” Miller added.
Stefan Liller, resident representative of UNDP Bangladesh, said, “Following the adoption of the Commercial Courts Act 2026, UNDP has continued supporting its operationalisation, including through suggesting digitalisation options to make dispute resolution faster, more transparent, and more accessible.”
“Commercial courts are not just a new institutional mechanism—they are essential for strengthening confidence in the justice system and the wider business environment,” Liller added.
Earlier in her keynote address on commercial litigation and arbitration, Justice Fatema Anwar emphasised the importance of timely and specialised dispute resolution mechanisms to address the evolving needs of businesses and investors.
She highlighted that effective commercial courts and stronger arbitration systems can help reduce delays, improve enforcement, and strengthen trust in the justice system.
