B Mirror Report:  Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has announced plans to introduce a new policy that would require large-cap companies in Bangladesh to be listed on the stock market, aiming to strengthen the country’s capital market and reduce reliance on high-interest bank loans.

He made the remarks on Thursday at a roundtable discussion titled “Budget in Times of Crisis and Public Expectations”, organized by Prothom Alo at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka.

The finance minister said the government is working to build a stronger capital market and bond market as alternative sources of financing for businesses. He added that international investment bankers, fund managers, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have responded positively to the initiative.

According to him, companies exceeding a certain capital threshold will be made mandatory for stock market listing. The government is also planning to launch “Bangladesh Bonds” both locally and internationally, with interest rates expected to range between 6 percent and 9 percent.

Amir Khasru said the government has undertaken broad reforms to move away from an oligarchic and patronage-based economy and establish a welfare-oriented and humane state. He described the democratization of the economy as one of the government’s key priorities.

The minister also emphasized integrating marginalized communities such as blacksmiths, potters, and weavers into the mainstream economy, saying they had long remained outside national budgetary and economic planning.

He further announced that the upcoming national budget will include special projects and funding for creative economy sectors such as theatre, culture, music, fine arts, and artificial jewelry. Plans are also underway to establish “theatre districts” in Dhaka and other major cities and to promote Bangladeshi culture, films, and music internationally as part of efforts to enhance the country’s soft power.

On improving the business environment, the finance minister said the government is taking strict measures to reduce the cost of doing business, cut excessive charges, and ease administrative complexities in areas ranging from ports to transportation. He noted that the number of approvals required for businesses and projects would be reduced to 13.

He also announced plans to bring the country’s economic and administrative systems under digital automation within the next year. A “One Citizen, One Card” initiative is also being planned to simplify public services.

Regarding taxation, the minister said the government will ensure proper tax collection from multinational soft drink and tobacco companies after verifying their actual market shares. He added that a simplified flat-rate tax system is being considered for small businesses and restaurant owners to reduce harassment by tax officials.

Amir Khasru also revealed plans for a new tax policy bill aimed at forming a policymaking body comprising experts with knowledge of the global economy, local trade, and sustainable profitability, rather than focusing solely on tax collection efficiency.

The event was attended by noted economist Hossain Zillur Rahman, Debapriya Bhattacharya, Selim Jahan, Simin Rahman, Mahbub Ur Rahman, Masrur Riaz, and representatives from various sectors.