- Dhaka
Despite some signs of economic stabilization, such as a slight easing of inflation and efforts to maintain stability in the foreign exchange market, Bangladesh’s broader economic reform path is hindered by structural weaknesses and governance shortcomings, said Debapriya Bhattacharya, convenor of the Citizen’s Platform for SDGs, Bangladesh, and distinguished fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), today.
“We are not seeing the kind of structural transformation or reduction in anti-equity bias that would indicate a meaningful shift in economic management,” he said.
Bhattacharya made these remarks at an event titled “Bangladesh Economy 2025-26: Policy Reform and National Budget,” organized by the Citizens’ Platform for SDGs, Bangladesh, held at the Lakeshore Hotel in Dhaka.
He noted that the government has paid little attention to economic reforms compared to other types of reform.
“If there is no economic stability, no other reform will be sustainable,” he said.
Bhattacharya also highlighted that the upcoming budget for FY26 would be shaped by three main deficits: a lack of cooperation and inclusivity, poor coordination, and limited transparency.
“There has been minimal public engagement in the budget-making process. We saw no real dialogue outside Dhaka, nor substantial inclusion of diverse groups even within the capital,” he added.
On the issue of separating tax policy from administration, Bhattacharya emphasized that reform initiatives should involve broader consultations with multiple stakeholders and be conducted transparently.
“The decision to split it into two divisions is the right one, and it was also one of the recommendations in our white paper,” he said.
“However, the way it has been implemented is not appropriate. It was done without proper consultation, limiting the space for professionals and increasing control over other administrative areas.”
“This approach is flawed, and implementing the reform properly has now become critically important.”
He also warned that the ongoing pen-down strike by National Board of Revenue (NBR) officials may further impact overall revenue collection.
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