DHAKA, Sept 14, 2023 (BSS)-Speakers at a seminar today laid emphasis on adopting technology to make SMEs equipped in the supply chain ecosystem.

They made the observation at a seminar on “Securing Global Supply Chains” of 
Commonwealth Trade and Investment Forum at a hotel in the city.

The Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, the Commonwealth's accredited business network, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Zi Foundation, a family-run foundation that offers support to vulnerable people, jointly organised the two-day event from Wednesday.

The programme aims to promote innovation, trade, investment and economic growth, enhance partnerships and explore ways towards sustainable and inclusive economic development for Bangladesh.

Barrister Md Samir Sattar, President of Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), Barrister Nihad Kabir, Director of Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI),  Masrur Reaz, Chairman of the policy Exchange, Vijay Kumar Pillai, Managing Director of Altus Logistics, Ilhan Erem, Director of CNR Holdings and Lyn Pitt, Managing Director of DT & G Ltd, among others, spoke on the occasion.

Sameer Sattar said to make Bangladesh's SMEs equipped in the supply chain ecosystem they need to be efficient in technology adoption. 

“Awareness programme can be arranged for the SME sector as to how they can develop them digitally. Moreover, easy access to finance for SMEs is also very important, he said. Later he said that automation can reduce the cost of doing business for SME sector”.

Vijay Kumar Pillai said due to Russia Ukraine war there are few supply chain disruptions they have seen in recent times.

Ilhan Erem said they need to focus on both sustainable economic growth and commercial viability as these are complementary to each other.

Lyn Pitt said global warming is a critical issue and globally it should be addressed without any delay.

The speakers also urged digital transformation in the supply chain ecosystem. And for that, there is a need for easy funding. They said cost of implementing technology and block chain in this sector is also a challenge for many countries. More tariff support for SMEs are also sought.