Bangladesh economy improving
Staff Reporter :
The World Bank has reiterated its commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s ongoing development initiatives and budgetary requirements, Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed said on Sunday.
Speaking to the press following a meeting with Johannes Zutt, the World Bank’s newly appointed Vice President for the South Asia Region, the adviser noted that the Bank expressed satisfaction with the country’s current economic trajectory.
“Mr Zutt commended Bangladesh’s recent progress and acknowledged the challenges it has navigated over the past year,” said Salehuddin. “He highlighted improvements in key macroeconomic indicators, including the financial sector, balance of payments, and foreign exchange reserves, as positive signs of resilience.”
The World Bank vice president also stressed the importance of further strengthening the private sector and attracting greater volumes of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). “He recognised that, in com
parison to many other economies, Bangladesh is performing relatively well,” Salehuddin added.
Reflecting on his previous role as World Bank country director in Bangladesh 15 years ago, Zutt noted the country’s significant transformation, particularly in infrastructure development. He cited the progress of the metro rail as a notable example. “The World Bank stands ready to provide all necessary support to Bangladesh,” Zutt was quoted as saying.
On the subject of ongoing economic reforms, the finance adviser confirmed that the World Bank welcomed the measures currently underway. In particular, Zutt praised the Bangladesh Bank’s efforts to restructure the banking sector, describing the nation’s macroeconomic indicators as “moving in the right direction.”
Regarding the recent U.S. tariff measures that have raised concerns for Bangladesh’s export sector, Salehuddin said further clarity will follow upon the return of the Commerce Adviser from Washington.
“He will brief us on the areas where tariff adjustments may be necessary,” Salehuddin explained. “This will involve reviewing our tax policy and other related issues carefully.”
The meeting is seen as a key moment in reaffirming international support for Bangladesh’s reform agenda at a time of global economic uncertainty.