Govt prioritised this budget to ensure benefits reach all citizens: Finance Minister

Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has said the government placed strong emphasis on inclusivity while formulating the national budget, aiming to ensure that its benefits reach people from all segments of society.

Speaking at a conference on “Trade, Economic Growth and Economic Diplomacy Action Plan” in the capital on Saturday (June 13), the minister said the proposed budget reflects distinct policy priorities designed to support sustainable and broad-based economic development.

The conference was jointly organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA).

Addressing a plenary session titled “Leveraging Resilience to Manage Risks,” Khosru said an effective tax system remains one of the most important tools of economic policymaking and should be treated as a strategic component of national development.

He stressed the need for a skilled and specialised team capable of managing tax policy in a professional and coordinated manner, noting that efficient tax governance is essential for achieving long-term economic goals.

The finance minister also said the government is working to establish a new policy framework that will ensure greater public participation in the decision-making process.

“Policies should be formulated with a clear understanding of their potential impact on citizens and the economy. Public perspectives must be reflected in policy decisions,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of institutional efficiency, Khasru noted that clear divisions of responsibility among policymaking bodies are crucial for effective governance.

“When policies are properly designed, implementation becomes significantly easier and more effective,” he added.

Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman and senior officials of BIDA among others attended the event.