National logistics policy to be a ’game changer’ to build a Smart Bangladesh: Tofazzel

Prime Minister's Principal Secretary M. Tofazzel Hossain Miah on Tuesday said National logistics policy will be a 'game changer' to build a Smart Bangladesh.

"The National Logistics Policy 2024 is a pivotal step for Bangladesh to enhance its position in the global market and spur economic development. It's aligned with our ambition to become a 'High-Income Country' and evolve into 'Smart Bangladesh' by 2041," he said.

He said the policy aims to lower business costs, boost exports, and integrate into the Global Value Chain (GVC), which are essential for building a 'Smart Bangladesh'.

Mohammad Tofazzel Hossain Miah, highlighted these objectives at a seminar hosted by the Foreign Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), reports BSS.

The event, titled "National Logistics Policy 2024 of Bangladesh: From Policy Framework to Execution," took place on Tuesday, 25th June 2024, at The Westin in the city, said a press release.

The seminar brought together dignitaries from the government, industry, and academia to discuss the actions from the policy framework to execution regarding recently formulated National Logistics Policy 2024 to achieve sustainable economic growth and expand both local and global trade and investment by building a top-notch logistics network. This system will be modern, quick, cost-effective, and kind to the environment.

Chairman of Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) Rear Admiral Mohammad Sohail, OSP, NUP, PPM, psc attended the seminar as the special guest.

He said, "Bangladesh has given the green light to its first-ever National Logistics Policy. By putting this policy into action effectively, we aim to develop a top-tier, up-to-date, and high-performing logistics network. This will assist us in achieving our economic targets. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Principal Secretary Tofazzel Hossain Mia for his exemplary guidance and leadership."

He praised the initiative of formulating first-ever National Logistics Policy of the country.

He emphasized the policy's role in building a leading logistics network to meet economic goals and thanked Principal Secretary Tofazzel Hossain Mia for his outstanding leadership in this process.

While sharing the Key-note presentation, former President of MCCI Barrister Nihad Kabir highlighted the National Logistics Policy 2024 as a catalyst for private investment in vital areas like ports and railways.

She noted that the policy will attract capital, create jobs, and demand new skills, reflecting a joint effort by the private and public sectors.

The policy is expected to enhance logistics, increase competitiveness, and boost productivity, she added.

The FICCI President Zaved Akhtar expressed gratitude to the government for originating the National Logistics Policy.

He emphasized that the new monitoring mechanisms and councils will ensure the policy's success.

He expected that the establishment of the National Logistics Development Council and the National Logistics Development and Coordination Committee (NLDCC) will provide essential guidance and coordination, ensuring that our logistics policy is implemented effectively and efficiently.

He also highlighted the 2025-2035 decade as a key period for infrastructure development.

The seminar was moderated by Dr. M Masrur Reaz, Chairman and Founder, Policy Exchange Bangladesh.

Among other dignitaries a good number of representatives of stakeholders, High officials of FICCI member companies, FICCI Board of Directors and Advisors attended the seminar.