Desk Report:
Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said that the government is determined to shape the country’s economy into a progressive, inclusive and sustainable framework. He said that in addition to implementing the election pledge, the government is working on the goal of transforming Bangladesh into a trillion dollar economy by 2034.
He made these remarks while presenting a comprehensive statement in the National Assembly on Friday (April 10, 2026) under Rule 300 of the Rules of Procedure.
The Finance Minister said that immediately after assuming office with strong public support, the government has taken initiatives to stabilize the economy, restore institutional capacity and ensure equitable development for all citizens.
He said, “The people have placed their trust in us, and it is our responsibility to build an inclusive and sustainable economy as a reward for that trust.”
In his speech, he mentioned the introduction of multi-party democracy under the leadership of Ziaur Rahman and the journey of economic liberation. He also highlighted the development of the garment industry during Khaleda Zia’s tenure, strengthening Bangladesh’s position in the global labor market, and the expansion of the middle class.
The Finance Minister said that the current government is working to advance the economy on the basis of transparency, honesty, and accountability by introducing the VAT system, modernizing the customs and import structure, and pursuing private investment-friendly policies.
Highlighting the current economic situation, he said that the government has inherited a challenging economy—where there is high inflation, pressure on the foreign sector, slow investment, and institutional weaknesses. In this situation, the government’s goal is to reach the benefits of development to everyone through economic democratization and deregulation.
Distribution of 5 million family cards has started to strengthen social security and there are plans to bring all families under its ambit step by step. In addition, initiatives have been taken to introduce farmer cards for farmers, fishermen, and livestock farmers.
He said that agricultural loans up to Tk 10,000 have been waived and support is being provided to increase rural production.
The Finance Minister also highlighted the plan to create one crore jobs by expanding the ICT sector, developing communication infrastructure, blue economy, eco-tourism and establishing regional creative hubs to create employment. He also said that initiatives are being taken to launch the ‘Created in Bangladesh’ brand.
Stating that the government plans to increase tax collection and reduce dependence on debt by ensuring transparency and automation in the revenue sector, he said that the target has been set to increase the tax-GDP ratio to 15 percent by 2034.
He also said that various steps have been taken to restore discipline in the financial sector, including reforms in the banking sector, strengthening the legal framework of the central bank and developing the capital market. He opined that strengthening the SME sector and ensuring easy access to credit will increase investment and employment.
Regarding the impact of the ongoing war in the Middle East, the Finance Minister said that there has been a great deal of uncertainty in the global energy market and supply system. As international oil and LNG prices have more than doubled, an additional Tk 36,000 crore in subsidies has to be paid to the power and energy sectors during March-June of the current fiscal year, which is putting pressure on the budget and foreign exchange.
To deal with this situation, he said that steps have been taken to save energy, reduce office hours, limit electricity consumption and ensure alternative energy sources. Additional assistance is also being sought from development partners to address the budget deficit.
Stating that a decision has been taken to keep energy prices unchanged to reduce the pressure on the people even amid the global crisis, he said that these challenges can be met through prudent policies and efficient management.
The Finance Minister said that stability, transparency and inclusive growth will be given utmost importance in the upcoming budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year.
Finally, he expressed the hope that the people, taking into account the limitations of the past, will support the government’s reform efforts and cooperate in building a strong, sustainable economy.
