Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has assured that Bangladesh is steadily progressing towards becoming a trillion-dollar economy, supported by rising domestic and foreign investments and the government’s long-term development strategy.
Speaking to journalists at Shah Amanat International Airport during a visit to Chattogram on Saturday, the minister explained that the national budget has been specifically designed to maximise the country’s regional economic potential and attract further investment.
He noted that the nation is currently experiencing increased inflows of foreign direct investment (FDI), capital market investment, and contributions from international fund managers.
Strategic regional development, logistics
Khosru emphasised that the budget prioritises the benefit of the nation by accounting for the unique potential of various regions and identifying methods to utilise those opportunities.
Highlighting the strategic importance of Chattogram, Khosru detailed a series of government initiatives intended to transform the port city into a regional logistics hub.
Due to its seaport and geographical location, the government has incorporated several major projects into its development agenda, including the establishment of a 600-acre free zone in Anwara across the Karnaphuli River and various port development projects.
Furthermore, the budget includes measures to upgrade Shah Amanat International Airport into a significant hub for both cargo and passengers.
The minister also mentioned that a Chinese economic zone will be established in Chattogram, while the government intends to reduce rail travel time between Dhaka and the port city by approximately two hours through the improvement of the Laksam railway section.
These initiatives are expected to evolve the economic corridor centred on Chattogram into an efficient logistics hub, enhancing port operations.
Major development activities are also currently underway in the Matarbari area, as the budget places particular emphasis on strengthening the logistics capabilities of the region.
Economic stability and future outlook
While describing these as long-term projects that will take several years to complete, the minister stated the government’s intention to commence work as early as possible.
However, he acknowledged that implementing such an ambitious budget remains a significant challenge.
The minister pointed out that the current administration inherited a fragile economy from its predecessor, and the situation has been further pressured by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Consequently, the government’s immediate priority is to stabilise the economy before fully realising its development potential.
Despite these hurdles, Amir Khosru expressed optimism that the national economic outlook will show marked improvement during the third and fourth years of the government’s tenure, paving the way for sustained growth.
He reiterated that by fully utilising its inherent potential, Bangladesh will successfully move towards the trillion-dollar mark.
During the briefing, Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain, Chattogram Development Authority (CDA) Chairman Engineer Belayet Hossain, and Chattogram City BNP Joint Convener MA Aziz were also present.
