S.M. Nurul Haque, the panel leader of Sammilito Business Parishad, has unveiled an ambitious manifesto to transform the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), promising a sweeping agenda of modernization, transparency, and business-friendly policies if his panel is elected.
He made these commitments at a 'Meet the Press' event at the Radisson Blu Hotel on Wednesday afternoon.
Addressing the media, Haque outlined a multi-faceted plan focused on both national infrastructure and local business needs. His core pledges include a focus on infrastructure advocacy, which involves pushing for the completion of the Bay Terminal, Matarbari Deep Sea Port, and economic zones—projects he stated would "change the development of the country."
He also vowed to negotiate with port authorities to rationalize tariffs and reduce transportation costs for goods vehicles on the Dhaka-Chittagong highway.
Another key area is chamber modernization, which entails transforming the CCCI into a "world-class" and "Petra-powered e-chamber" through comprehensive digitalization; this includes introducing digital membership services, a modern library, and a help desk for business complaints.
Regarding financial transparency and support, Haque pledged to appoint an auditor to ensure the chamber's financial transparency, set up a training center for young entrepreneurs, provide easy financing for new businesses, and support the expansion of export markets and the agro-industry.
Finally, a major initiative under revenue for development is to realize the "logical demand" that 10% of the revenue from Chittagong's port and customs be allocated for the essential infrastructure development of the port city, alongside a promise to complete the unfinished construction of the World Trade Center.
Haque emphasized that the overarching goal is to "transform Chittagong into the commercial capital of the country." He further promised to leverage technology, including the use of AI, and to increase initiatives in medical services and disaster management.
Concluding his speech, he expressed his determination to implement the manifesto, stating, "If our victory is confirmed through the valuable votes of the traders, we are determined to implement this manifesto... Moving forward with new enthusiasm, building a world-class chamber, I hope to be able to take the chamber to a better level with this motto and innovation."
