Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has said the government will attach importance to the opinions of the business community to make the economy dynamic, adding that proposals from the private sector will be incorporated into the upcoming budget.
He made the remarks at the 46th meeting of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) Advisory Committee, organized by the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka in the capital on Wednesday.
The commerce minister said the energy crisis, high interest rates and stagnation in new investment have emerged as major challenges. Alongside attracting fresh investment, sustaining existing businesses and industries has now become a major responsibility, he added.
He said revitalizing the economy is now essential not only for economic security but also for overall development. The discussion was aimed at finding ways to incorporate proposals from the private sector into the upcoming budget, he added.
The minister also said there are significant problems in the banking and logistics sectors. To tackle these challenges, the government expects specific and realistic proposals from the private sector, he said.
Muktadir said the country cannot move forward unless the tax-to-GDP ratio is increased. Everyone must play a responsible role in ensuring the development and security of the state, he added.
Describing the finance minister as business-friendly, he said the country’s economic management is in the right hands and people will see positive outcomes in the days ahead.
Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury attended the meeting as the chief guest. The event was chaired by Md Abdur Rahman Khan and conducted by FBCCI Administrator Md Abdur Rahim Khan. Top business leaders and leaders of different trade bodies were present.
Bd-Pratidin English/ AM
