Bangladesh Investment Development Authority executive chairman Lokman Hossain Miah on Thursday underscored the pivotal role of smart investment services in propelling Bangladesh towards development.

He made this statement during a day-long workshop organized by BIDA, chaired by Chattogram Divisional Commissioner Md Tofail Islam.

The workshop showcased the advancements of BIDA’s One Stop Service (OSS) platform, a comprehensive portal facilitating business investors and entrepreneurs in the Chattogram region.

This platform, comprising 123 online services, consolidates the investment process, obviating the need for investors to engage with 39 different institutions. Notably, documents are submitted just once, enhancing efficiency and transparency.

Addressing the attendees as the chief guest, Lokman Hossain highlighted significant progress achieved under the leadership of the Prime Minister.

He noted the remarkable increase in per capita income from $700 a century ago to $2784 presently, reiterating the government’s vision to achieve middle-income status by 2031 and full development by 2041.

BIDA executive Chairman spotlighted the provision of expedited on-arrival visas for foreign investors within 6 to 12 hours, demonstrating the government’s commitment to swift and transparent services.

BIDA Executive Member and Secretary Khandoker Azizul Islam spoke as a special guest, assuring attendees of the user-friendly nature of BIDA OSS while cautioning against third-party intermediaries who might mislead investors for personal gain.

Chittagong Chamber of Commerce & Industry president Omar Hajjaz shared insights on policy reforms, investment prospects, and limitations on behalf of Chattogram’s business community.

The event witnessed participation from prominent businessmen, entrepreneurs, investors, senior representatives of chambers of commerce and industries, as well as journalists from print and electronic media.