Entrepreneurs today demanded the government remove red tape and simplify business procedures in the upcoming budget to facilitate the growth of trade and investment.

They also sought support from the government as many sectors, particularly the cottage, micro, small and medium enterprises, need financial assistance to overcome the fallout of the global economic slowdown.

Businesses placed the demands at a pre-budget discussion organised by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) and the Bangla daily Samakal at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre in Dhaka.