Monday, 6th April 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 20th February 2026, 9:32 AM
Bangladesh is poised for a transformative shift in its stock market and overall economy, according to Finance and Planning Minister Ameer Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury. Speaking to journalists in Chattogram on Friday morning (20 February), the minister outlined a series of ambitious initiatives aimed at economic revival and structural reform.
Minister Chowdhury emphasised that the upcoming fiscal measures would mark a departure from conventional budgeting approaches. “The next budget will not be a routine one. It will set the country firmly on a path of economic upliftment. We are committed to restoring illicitly transferred funds and curbing the politics of patronage that has hindered progress,” he said.
He stressed that the government’s focus is on creating an environment where economic growth benefits the wider population. “Our priority is to liberate the economy and ensure that every citizen experiences its advantages. This is a fundamental shift, and we are determined to achieve it,” the minister added.
A significant part of this vision involves transforming Chattogram into a true commercial capital. “Now is the time to establish Chattogram as the economic powerhouse it is capable of being. Investment is the key, and the city holds immense potential in this regard. By enhancing port operations and expanding investment opportunities, we can simultaneously boost employment,” Minister Chowdhury explained.
The minister also highlighted that job creation is among the most pressing challenges facing the nation. “While we have multiple plans underway, the central concern remains employment. We are designing initiatives that not only stimulate investment but also ensure people directly benefit from economic growth,” he said.
To summarise the government’s economic priorities, a preliminary outline is presented below:
| Priority Area | Objective | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Stock Market Development | Strengthen regulatory frameworks, attract domestic & foreign investors | Enhanced market stability and growth |
| Anti-Corruption & Fund Recovery | Recover illicitly transferred funds | Increased state revenue, reduced capital flight |
| Investment Promotion in Chattogram | Encourage private sector investment in industry & infrastructure | Job creation, economic growth |
| Port Efficiency | Modernise and optimise port operations | Improved trade, reduced logistics costs |
| Employment Generation | Launch skill development & entrepreneurship initiatives | Sustainable job opportunities across sectors |
| Budget Innovation | Introduce progressive fiscal policies | Shift from routine budgeting to transformative outcomes |
Minister Chowdhury concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to a bold economic agenda. “We are not merely planning incremental changes. We aim for revolutionary development that will reshape the financial landscape and bring tangible benefits to our citizens,” he affirmed.
With these initiatives, Bangladesh’s financial and commercial sectors are poised for significant transformation, signalling a new era of economic dynamism and inclusive growth.
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