The government has awarded the commercially important person (CIP-export) status to 147 businessmen in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the country's economy in the year 2012.
Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed handed over the CIP cards to the exporters at a city hotel on Wednesday. Out of 147, 101 persons got CIP cards for their contribution to exports from 18 sectors, and 46 as CIP (Trade). The recipients included FBCCI president, vice-presidents and directors.
The commerce minister was the chief guest at the programme where President of FBCCI (Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry) Kazi Akramuddin Ahmed and Commerce Secretary Hedayetullah Al Mamun were present as special guests.
A large number of leading business personalities, high officials of the government and members of the civil society were also present at the function.
Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed said the government has a plan to increase the number of CIPs by easing selection process and including new sectors.
Expressing regret for delayed CIP card distribution of 2012, he promised that the CIP cards of 2013 and 2014 will be distributed by June of 2015.
The minister said the government is planning to fetch Tk50 billion export during its present tenure if political situation remains normal.
He said the government will consider awarding the status of CIP to exporters earning above Tk5 million.
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