PHOTO: ICAB

STAR BUSINESS DESK

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB) has launched the ICAB Public Interest Forum (PIF), a high-level advisory platform aimed at strengthening stakeholder engagement and providing strategic insights on issues related to the accountancy profession, corporate governance, financial reporting, sustainability, public financial management, and national economic development.

NKA Mobin, president of ICAB, inaugurated the forum at the institute’s head office in Karwan Bazar, according to a press release.

The forum, which consists of 15 members, held its inaugural meeting at CA Bhaban in Dhaka on Sunday, marking a new phase in ICAB’s engagement with policymakers, regulators, business leaders, academics, development partners, and civil society representatives.

Participants welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that it would strengthen ICAB’s public-interest and self-regulatory role, enhance confidence in the accountancy profession, and help the institute meet growing expectations surrounding corporate governance, transparency, and accountability.

Members stressed that stronger governance and credible financial reporting are essential to restoring trust, attracting domestic and foreign investment, and supporting sustainable economic growth.

The forum’s establishment was described as a key step under ICAB’s “Reform Strategy 2025-2030”.

Participants said a structured stakeholder-engagement mechanism could generate valuable insights, strengthen policy dialogue, and contribute to more effective institutional reforms and national development outcomes.

The forum brings together leading business figures, economists, academics, and professionals, reflecting ICAB’s commitment to advancing the public interest through stronger governance, accountability, and sustainable economic development.