Staff Reporter:
Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said that there is no alternative to industrial development if Bangladesh is to build a stronger and more resilient economy. He stressed that sustainable economic growth cannot be achieved without ensuring the progress of the country’s industrial sector, adding that the government is working to identify and gradually resolve the challenges facing industries.
The minister made the remarks while speaking to reporters after separate meetings with leaders of the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) and the Saudi Arabia–Bangladesh Chamber at the National Board of Revenue (NBR) headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Thursday.
He said the government would continue maintaining regular dialogue with the business community to accelerate industrial development. During the meeting, BTMA leaders presented a number of concerns and proposals related to the industrial sector. According to the minister, immediate decisions were taken on several issues, while the remaining proposals would be given due consideration.
“The government wants local industries to become more competitive and efficient. A strong industrial base is essential for sustainable economic growth and the creation of new employment opportunities,” he said, adding that efforts to address business concerns would continue.
The finance minister also noted that the government has already introduced deregulation measures in several areas to make doing business easier. However, he acknowledged that some obstacles still remain and said those barriers would be identified and removed in phases.
Referring to discussions with the Saudi Arabia–Bangladesh Chamber, Chowdhury said the meeting explored opportunities for cooperation in skilled workforce development, expanding bilateral trade, and alternative financing. As the government is restructuring its financing framework, it is also seeking new sources of funding, including potential cooperation from Saudi Arabia, he added.
Asked about the newly announced national budget, the finance minister declined to offer a direct assessment. Responding with a smile, he said, “You will judge how the budget is. How can I say that?”
On revenue collection, he expressed optimism that the National Board of Revenue would achieve its target for the current fiscal year, saying NBR officials are well prepared and that revenue collection is expected to remain satisfactory.
However, the minister declined to comment in detail when asked about the activities of the task force formed to oversee revenue collection.
