Strengthening Bangladesh’s commercial justice system is increasingly seen as essential for improving the business climate, attracting investment, and supporting economic growth. Speakers at a seminar organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre (BIAC) at a hotel in Dhaka today highlighted the importance of faster and more predictable commercial dispute resolution systems to build investor confidence and support private sector growth.

Addressing the event as Chief Guest, Md. Asaduzzaman, MP said “As foreign investors seek safety, legal certainty, and protection from harassment, Bangladesh’s commercial justice system must become more practical, efficient, and responsive to their concerns. The Commercial Courts Act is a good start, but we must reexamine and strengthen it through necessary amendments, improved judicial and legal training, and more effective arbitration mechanisms so that the shared vision of the government, UNDP, and our international partners can be fully realized.”

Delivering special remarks, Michael Miller, Ambassador of the European Union to Bangladesh, said, “The European Union is encouraged to see that the transformation of Bangladesh’s justice system is already underway, and we are proud to stand alongside Bangladesh in this journey. Investors look not only at market size and labour availability, but also at legal certainty, safety, and a strong business environment—this is why the EU, together with UNDP, strongly supported the establishment of commercial courts and economic opportunity protected by the rule of law.”

Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, said, “Following the adoption of the Commercial Courts Act 2026, UNDP has continued supporting its operationalization, including through suggesting digitalization options to make dispute resolution faster, more transparent, and more accessible. Commercial courts are not just a new institutional mechanism—they are essential for strengthening confidence in the justice system and the wider business environment.”

Earlier in her keynote address on commercial litigation and arbitration, Justice Fatema Anwar emphasized the importance of timely and specialized dispute resolution mechanisms to address the evolving needs of businesses and investors. She highlighted that effective commercial courts and stronger arbitration systems can help reduce delays, improve enforcement, and strengthen trust in the justice system.

The seminar also featured two panel discussions focusing on reforms to the Arbitration Act 2001 and the implementation challenges of the proposed Commercial Courts Act 2026. The sessions brought together legal experts, government representatives, development partners, and private sector voices to discuss enforcement mechanisms, institutional readiness, and practical pathways for strengthening Bangladesh’s commercial justice ecosystem.