Staff Reporter :
The country’s business community has frustrated while reacting to the proposed national budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, acknowledging its attempts to address pressing challenges such as inflation, fiscal deficit, revenue mobilisation, investment, and the upcoming LDC graduation – but raising concerns over its overall direction and priorities.
Anwar-Ul-Alam Chowdhury, President of the Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI), criticised the budget for failing to create a business-friendly environment or provide a clear roadmap for industrial expansion. “The focus seems more on achieving revenue targets than building business confidence,” he remarked.
Chowdhury expressed concern over what he termed an over-reliance on tax hikes, saying the increased burden on both corporate and individual taxpayers could deter investment. He also highlighted the impact of higher taxes on construction materials, warning of negative consequences for the housing sector.
Meanwhile, the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) raised alarm over the government’s increased dependence on the banking sector to finance the budget deficit. Calling it a “negative signal” for the economy, DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed urged for alternative strategies.
Speaking at a press conference held at the chamber’s headquarters on Monday, Ahmed stated, “The budget lacks clear measures to control inflation. Instead of leaning on banks, the government should focus on widening the tax base to boost revenue.”
Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed presented the Tk7,89,999 crore budget in a pre-recorded speech earlier in the day.
