Finance adviser hopeful about FDI rise

Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed expressed his hope that foreign direct investment (FDI) would increase significantly if a stable regulatory situation persists in the country.

He said the inflow of foreign investment still remains at slow lane. But the foreigners are now observing that foreign-exchange market is now stable and reserves increased in Bangladesh due to inflow of budget supports.

"So, if the regulatory situation remains stable, the atmosphere remains well, definitely investment will increase," the finance adviser said.

He was briefing newsmen on Wednesday after a meeting of the Advisers' Council Committee on Government Purchase at Bangladesh secretariat in the capital.

Mr. Ahmed said the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved its loan tranches while the other development partners also gave budget support loans.

Besides, the country's export earnings and inward remittances have increased, leading to rise in the foreign exchange reserve.

The adviser said expatriate Bangladeshis are now sending money through banking channel as have confidence on the interim government.

About the work abstention by revenue officials, the adviser said the National Board of Revenue (NBR) officials and employees have some worries about their job.

"... I said earlier that their career won't face problem. Rather, NBR will be elevated to an independent division, their status will go up, and carrier will be bright," he said.

He went on: "I have invited them to seat (with me). What they are doing, work abstentions, as a government official, is not right. NBR is a very important office.

Business and revenue earnings of the entire country are involved with them, he mentioned, adding that works at the sea and land ports are also being hampered due to their work abstention. "I am hopeful tomorrow it (the dispute) will be resolved," he said. The adviser also explained as to why the government is reforming the NBR.

syful-islam@outlook.com