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DHAKA, Jan 12, 2026 (BSS) – Female business leaders and representatives from various women’s chambers have called for low-interest loans, easy credit access, and enhanced capacity-building support to ensure the sustainability of women-led enterprises in Bangladesh.

These demands were raised today during an exchange meeting organized by the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), focusing on the development and skill enhancement of women’s chambers and associations.

Despite existing central bank directives to facilitate credit for women, entrepreneurs mentioned that significant hurdles at the field level. 

Participants noted that commercial bank managers at the district and upazila levels often create obstacles by demanding unnecessary documentation, effectively bypassing central bank instructions. 

Nasreen Fatema Awal, President of the Women Entrepreneur Association of Bangladesh (WEAB), emphasized that the proper implementation of existing policies is crucial, alongside a focus on low-interest rates, specialized training, and workshops.

Ferdaus Ara Begum, CEO of Business Initiative Leading Development (BUILD), pointed out that while the government has introduced many women-friendly policies, many emerging entrepreneurs in rural areas remain unaware of them. 

She urged entrepreneurs to become compliant to take advantage of these government facilities.

To address structural challenges, FBCCI Administrator Md. Abdur Rahim Khan announced that the government has taken steps to establish women’s chambers in every district.

 He highlighted that increasing women's participation in economic activities is essential for the country’s overall economic growth.

Tanvir Ahmed, Senior Advisor of the She-Trades Initiative, highlighted the need to eliminate gender discrimination in trade and increase connectivity with experienced international entrepreneurs.

Entrepreneurs demanded the introduction of English versions of trade licenses and special discounts for women at fairs organized by the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB).

Sultana Yasmin, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Industries, assured the participants that their recommendations would be presented to the appropriate authorities. 

The meeting also saw participation from representatives of Bangladesh Bank, UNDP Bangladesh, and the SME Foundation, all of whom discussed various initiatives to empower women in the business sector.