Private sector key to growth, govt prioritising investment Finance Minister

Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Sunday said the private sector remains the main engine of the country’s economic growth and the government is giving top priority to trade, commerce and investment.

Amir Khosru made the remarks during a meeting with Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) President Taskeen Ahmed at his office at the Secretariat.

The minister said the government is working to make the capital market more vibrant and the central bank more private sector-oriented through different initiatives.

Khosru also noted that easing lending conditions for the private sector and increasing credit flow remain among the government’s priorities to boost investment in the country.

The discussions focused on bolstering financial stability and creating a more favourable environment for private sector growth to strengthen the national economy.

In his speech at the meeting, Taskeen Ahmed presented several key recommendations aimed at revitalizing the country’s financial landscape and easing the burden on businesses.

He specifically advocated for a gradual reduction in the policy rate to effectively lower lending costs and stimulate increased private sector investment.

The DCCI President also proposed reconsidering loan rescheduling facilities specifically for genuine defaulters by extending existing classification periods, ensuring that honest businesses facing temporary hardships are distinguished from willful defaulters and provided the necessary breathing room to recover.

Emphasizing the need for a holistic strategy, Ahmed noted that a coordinated approach is essential for the nation’s economic trajectory.

“Through a coordinated approach to monetary, fiscal and structural reforms, Bangladesh can restore investor confidence, strengthen financial stability, and accelerate inclusive development,” he stated.

He further assured the Minister of the business community’s full support in implementing these essential reform initiatives.

The meeting was also attended by DCCI Senior Vice President Razeev H Chowdhury and Vice President Md. Salem Sulaiman.