Chattogram businesses welcome proposed budget

CHATTOGRAM: The businesses based in Chattogram hailed the budget and termed it 'pro-people' but the common people looked uninterested about the annual fiscal plan.

Common people are frustrated over the continuous price hike of essential commodities. Most of them have no interest in budget, they are frustrated since they do not see any downward movement of prices.

Abu Ahamed, a rickshaw puller said, "I heard that government will increase prices in the Parliament. What is budget, I actually do not know. But, from now on the prices of essentials will be increased."

Asma Begum, a school teacher said, "Budget is very essential for a nation. But our budget is preserving the interest of rich people. We need special budget for health sector. I think the top level of the government should be concerned about the interest of citizens."

Abul Kalam, a shopkeeper said, "Rich people have interest in budget. We urge the government to make the budget for all people."

Mahbubul Alam, president of Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) said, "The budget of Sheikh Hasina's government is towards development of the country. The budget will be helpful in creating job opportunities as well as ensuring social security for the citizens."

Tarafdar Ruhul Amin, managing director of Saif Powertec and senior vice president of CCCI said, "Government has encouraged the local industries and local investment in the current budget. Besides, corporate tax has been reduced in the budget. If the local investors are inspired, they can set up industries here in Bangladesh which will create job opportunities as well as produce local products. The products may be exported abroad in future."

Zhulan Dhar, associate professor of Department of Economics at Chittagong University said, "The budget is a pro-people one. During this Covid-19 pandemic, incumbent government has presented a good budget which may ensure the continuity of development."

President of Chittagong Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Monowara Hakim Ali termed the budget 'timely' and said, "The world is suffering from coronavirus fear now. The budget will help us face the situation with our limited assets."

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