A total of 71 business leaders have submitted nominations to vie for seats in the board of directors’ election of the Chattogram Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), the century-old trade body of Bangladesh.
Sunday marked the final day for nominations, which were filed at the Chattogram Divisional Commissioner’s office in four categories, according to the Election Commission.
This year, 18 of the chamber’s 24 director positions will be determined through voting. The Ordinary category is the most competitive, with 48 candidates contesting 12 seats, while 17 candidates are competing for six Associate category posts. No polls will be held for the Town Association and Trade Group categories, as a single nominee in each will be elected unopposed.
Two full panels have entered the race. Prominent businessman Amirul Haque has nominated 22 candidates in the Ordinary category, eight in the Associate category, and six across the Trade and Group categories. His main rival, led by SM Nurul Haque, has also fielded a complete slate.
Speaking after submitting his nomination, Amirul Haque said he was contesting without political affiliation, aiming to keep the chamber independent. “Our goal is to turn Chattogram into a true commercial hub,” he said. Nurul Haque highlighted his panel’s focus on supporting businesses through challenges and growth, and reinforcing the chamber as an autonomous trade body.
Industry insiders expect the new board to address persistent issues affecting trade and exports, including customs harassment, discriminatory treatment of Chattogram, mandatory highway weigh-scale checks, and the 13-ton truckload limit. Resolving these concerns could directly benefit Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector, which relies heavily on the port city for export logistics. Improved infrastructure, streamlined customs processes, and reduced bureaucratic hurdles would enhance export efficiency and competitiveness for RMG manufacturers.
According to the election schedule, voting is set for 1st November, with the final list of candidates to be published on 5th October after scrutiny and any withdrawals.
