Dhaka: Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury today outlined his government’s immediate priorities, placing institutional reform, economic inclusivity, broad-based economic participation, and deregulation at the top of the agenda. Speaking to reporters after assuming charge at the Finance Ministry, the minister emphasized the importance of strong and efficient institutions for the government’s ability to deliver effectively.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Khasru, who also serves as the Minister of Planning, acknowledged the poor condition of state institutions, highlighting the urgent need for attention. He stated, “Our primary problem is that the state institutions are in a very bad shape. We have to address this first. The institutions must be recovered.” The minister underlined that restoring professionalism, transparency, and efficiency within public institutions would be the foremost priority. He asserted that without these core elements, even the most ambitious economic programs would fail to yield meaningful results.
The Finance Minister described institutional reform as the “number one” task before the ministry, underscoring that rebuilding governance structures is essential for sustainable economic management. In terms of broader economic policy, he advocated for moving away from a “patronage-driven” economic model and democratizing the economy. “The economy of Bangladesh must be for all people,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a level playing field where every citizen can participate in economic activity and benefit from its outcomes.
He reiterated that wider participation in the economy is crucial for inclusive growth, and ensuring that economic gains reach every segment of society would be a key benchmark of success under his leadership. On regulatory reforms, the Finance Minister renewed his call for serious deregulation and liberalization, arguing that Bangladesh has become an over-regulated country over time. He attributed this to years of patronage-based politics, which, in his view, resulted in layers of regulations that have increased the cost of doing business and limited fair competition.
“Bangladesh has become over-regulated,” he said. “To make this successful, we must undertake serious deregulation. We have to liberalize and create a level playing field so that everyone has equal rights to participate in the economy and its benefits reach all.” The Minister argued that excessive regulation often creates opportunities for corruption and rent-seeking, adding that rationalizing the regulatory framework would reduce barriers, improve competitiveness, and enhance investor confidence.
When asked to summarize his priorities, he responded that the economy would remain his central focus, with institutional reform, deregulation, and inclusive participation forming the core pillars of his agenda. The Finance Minister’s remarks signal a reform-oriented approach at the finance ministry, with an emphasis on strengthening institutions, reducing regulatory burdens, and ensuring that economic opportunities are accessible to all citizens.