Observation at AmCham discussion: Budget is highly ambitious, implementation will be difficult,

Panelists at a post-budget discussion organised by the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) on Tuesday described the proposed national budget for FY 2025–26 as “highly ambitious” and warned that its implementation will be difficult amid economic and political uncertainties.

Held in Dhaka, the event was chaired by AmCham President Syed Ershad Ahmed, with Dr M Masrur Reaz of Policy Exchange Bangladesh presenting the keynote. Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Dr Anisuzzaman Chowdhury attended as chief guest.

Dr Reaz said the budget lacks clear direction on investment, employment, and structural reform. He termed revenue, inflation, and GDP targets overly optimistic, given current instability.

While welcoming increased allowances for public servants and business-friendly tax measures, he flagged concerns over insufficient support for job creation—especially for rural women—and unchanged allocations for education and health. Panelists urged practical reforms to meet economic goals.

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