Stakeholders in Bangladesh’s film industry have urged the interim government to establish a dedicated Ministry of Film Affairs, proposing structural changes to the current film governance framework.  

The demand was raised during the National Film Conference 2025, organized by the Bangladesh Film Students' Association at Sir Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban, Dhaka University, on Wednesday.  

In addition to the call for a separate ministry, stakeholders proposed three major reforms:  
1. Prioritizing Film Industry Projects – They urged the government to include film-related projects among its top priority initiatives.  
2. Recognizing Filmmaking as a Respected Profession – They emphasized the need for social and professional recognition of filmmakers.  
3. Amending Restrictive Laws – They sought the revision of outdated laws that hinder film production, distribution, and international trade.  

Speaking at the event, Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, an adviser to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, pointed out that the film industry remains fragmented. He stressed the importance of unifying the cultural sector under a single framework to address ongoing challenges effectively.  

"The reforms we envision won't happen overnight. We need to draft a clear roadmap so that future governments, regardless of political affiliation, can implement our proposals," he stated.  

The conference also covered crucial industry topics, including:  
- Reforming the Bangladesh Film Certification Act  
- Strengthening the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation  
- Digital cinema distribution and e-ticketing  
- Establishing a National Film Centre  
- Expanding film education and investing in Gazipur Film City  
- Forming an anti-piracy cell and boosting government investment  

Stakeholders remain hopeful that their proposals will lead to significant policy changes to strengthen Bangladesh’s film industry.