The newly elected leaders of the Real Estate and Housing Association of Bangladesh (REHAB) met Housing and Public Works Minister Zakaria Taher Suman on 5 May to seek policy support for the sector, focusing on affordable housing, investment conditions, and urban management, the association said in a press release.
The meeting discussed challenges including high construction costs, financing constraints, and regulatory complexities, with both sides exploring ways to improve access to housing for the general public and ensure sustainable sector growth.
REHAB leaders stressed the need for long-term policy backing and easier financing to stabilise and expand the industry, while government officials acknowledged the sector’s role in economic growth and urbanisation.
REHAB President Ali Afzal said, “The housing sector plays a significant role in the country’s economy. However, it is currently facing challenges due to various policy complexities, high construction costs, and financing constraints. We hope that with effective government support, the sector will become more dynamic and affordable housing for the general public can be ensured.”
He added that expanding access to financing on easier terms would be critical to advancing the sector in a planned manner.
Housing and Public Works Minister Zakaria Taher Suman said, “The housing sector is a key component of the country’s urbanisation and economic growth. The government is committed to its development and has already taken various initiatives.”
He said coordination with REHAB would help build a modern, sustainable, and people-friendly housing system, adding that policy support for affordable housing would continue.
Also present at the meeting were Narayanganj-1 constituency Member of Parliament Mostafizur Rahman Bhuiyan Dipu and Housing and Public Works Secretary Md Nazrul Islam.
Other attendees included REHAB Senior Vice President Abdur Razzaq, Vice President-2 Abu Khalid Mohammad Barkat Ullah, Vice President-3 A F M Obaidullah, Vice President Finance Md Harun Or Rashid, Director Tasnuva Mahbub Salam, and REHAB Member Representative MGR Nasir.
Both sides expressed optimism about working together to strengthen the housing sector.
