B Mirror Report: Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury today told the Jatiya Sangsad that the government is firmly committed to transforming Bangladesh’s economy into a progressive, inclusive, and sustainable one, while fulfilling its election pledges and aiming to achieve a trillion-dollar economy by 2034 despite global challenges.

Presenting a statement in Parliament under Section 300 of the Rules of Procedure, he said the government assumed office with a strong mandate and quickly moved to stabilize the economy, rebuild institutions, and ensure equitable development.

“The people have placed their trust in us, and we must deliver by building a progressive, inclusive, and sustainable economy,” he said.

Khosru highlighted the historical role of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), noting that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman introduced multiparty democracy and initiated economic reforms, while Begum Khaleda Zia strengthened the economy through garment sector expansion, overseas employment, and pro-investment policies.

Building on that legacy, he said the current government is focusing on transparency, accountability, and sustainable growth.

Describing the present economic situation, the minister said the government inherited structural weaknesses, high inflation, external pressures, and slow investment, requiring urgent reforms.

He said the key goal is economic democratization so that growth benefits all citizens, not just a few.

Among major initiatives, he noted the distribution of 50 lakh family cards under social protection programmes, introduction of farmer cards, and waiver of agricultural loans up to Tk 10,000 to support rural producers.

To boost employment, the government plans to create one crore jobs through ICT expansion, infrastructure development, blue economy initiatives, and eco-tourism. Efforts are also underway to promote a “Created in Bangladesh” brand globally.

On fiscal policy, Khosru said the government is prioritizing transparency and automation in tax collection, aiming to raise the tax-GDP ratio to 10 percent in the medium term and 15 percent by 2034.

He added that better debt management, bond market development, and improved fiscal planning will help maintain stability.

In the financial sector, steps are being taken to restore discipline in banks, improve governance, and rebuild confidence, alongside efforts to strengthen the capital market through new financial instruments.

The minister also stressed support for SMEs, easier access to credit, and increased spending on education, healthcare, and social protection.

Referring to the Middle East conflict, he said it has created uncertainty in energy markets and global trade, with oil and LNG prices more than doubling. This has forced the government to provide Tk 36,000 crore in additional subsidies and increased pressure on foreign exchange reserves.

To address this, the government has introduced energy-saving measures, sought external support, and ensured uninterrupted supply while keeping energy prices unchanged to reduce public burden.

Khosru said the upcoming 2026–27 budget will focus on stability, transparency, and inclusive growth, expressing hope that people will support the government’s reform efforts.

He reiterated that the government remains committed to strengthening institutions and putting the economy on a sustainable path for the future.