Dhaka:Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has highlighted the importance of data-driven policymaking in addressing the global economic challenges characterized by sluggish growth, high borrowing costs, and rising trade protectionism.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of Econthon 2026, a national inter-university economics competition held at United International University (UIU) in Dhaka. Organized by the Junior Economists Forum in collaboration with UIU's Department of Economics, the event drew participation from 224 teams across Bangladesh.
Khosru emphasized the necessity of practical solutions and the effective use of data for policymaking, stating that his ministry often faces unexpected situations requiring precise decisions based on limited information. He acknowledged the efforts of students who advanced to the competition's final round after a series of rigorous challenges, including quizzes, case-solving, and policy-making rounds.
He also addressed the economic pressures arising from rising energy prices, foreign exchange challenges, climate change effects, and inflation, which are adversely impacting people's purchasing power. To tackle these issues, Khosru advocated for macroeconomic stability and modernizing the tax system, emphasizing the need for transparency and the efficient use of tax revenues.
Addressing the students, he underscored the importance of skills, integrity, and humanity in ensuring progress and making sound policy judgments in economics. The closing ceremony also saw the attendance of UIU Board of Trustees Chairman Hasan Mahmud Raja and Trustee member K M A Shamim, alongside Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Abul Kashem Mia, who presided over the program. The minister concluded the event by presenting prizes to the winning and participating teams.