by 
Dhaka
April 29, 2025
Dhaka: The Bangladesh Restaurant Owners’ Association has issued a stern warning of nationwide restaurant closures in response to the Dhaka South City Corporation’s (DSCC) decision to cancel trade licenses of restaurants operating in buildings not designated for such businesses. The association has condemned the move as “unilateral” and “detrimental” to the industry, threatening legal action, road blockades, and indefinite closures if the decision is not reversed.
In a statement signed by Association President Md. Osman Gani and Secretary General Imran Hasan on Tuesday, the owners expressed outrage, arguing that the decision jeopardizes thousands of businesses and livelihoods. The association highlighted that restaurant owners must navigate approvals from 14 different agencies to start a business, a process fraught with bureaucratic harassment. Despite these challenges, the sector has been a significant contributor to the economy, with young entrepreneurs driving growth.
According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), the country has approximately 481,000 restaurants, employing 3 million people and contributing to a sector valued at over $4 billion annually. With an investment of Tk 2 lakh crore and a 17% annual growth rate, the industry supports nearly 20 million people directly and indirectly.
The association warned that the DSCC’s abrupt decision jeopardizes the financial stability of owners who have taken bank loans and invested heavily in leases and renovations. “This move devalues investments and risks pushing thousands of business families onto the streets,” the statement read. They demanded an immediate reversal of the decision and called for dialogue to formulate a fair policy.
The DSCC, under the Municipal Corporation (Taxation) Rules, 1986, requires businesses to obtain trade licenses. Currently, 1,026 restaurants operate with valid licenses in the DSCC area. The corporation defends its decision, citing safety concerns and unauthorized operations, particularly in rooftop establishments lacking approval from Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk).
The association vowed to launch stringent protests, including legal measures and nationwide closures, if the DSCC does not engage in prompt negotiations. “The responsibility for any resulting civil unrest or instability will lie solely with the DSCC,” they cautioned.
AI/MR
