CHATTOGRAM, June 11, 2026 (BSS) - Leaders of trade bodies, entrepreneurs, economists and political representatives in Chattogram have welcomed the proposed national budget for FY2026-27, describing it as pragmatic, development-oriented and supportive of livelihoods.

Chattogram Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCCI) President Amirul Hoque said the business community expected a budget that would support industry and trade.

"The budget aims to reduce the VAT and tax burden on citizens, expand the tax base and mobilise funds from domestic and international sources," he told BSS.

Referring to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's budget as historic, he said its focus on the development of Chattogram Port and the introduction of new policies for domestic and foreign investment would encourage investment in the region.

Amirul Hoque also urged the government to prioritise construction of an elevated expressway in the Chattogram-Dhaka Economic Corridor, development of the Bay Terminal, and a water supply project from the Meghna River to Chattogram. 

He called for uninterrupted gas, electricity and water supply to industries, and better utility and housing services in the Mirsarai Special Economic Zone.

He said relying more on domestic resources than foreign loans to finance the budget deficit reflected confidence in the country's own economic capacity, and welcomed the emphasis on human resource development, especially education.

Chattogram Metropolitan Chamber President Khalilur Rahman described the budget as challenging but aimed at creating a prosperous economic environment.

He noted that the proposal includes extending VAT exemptions until 2030 for several locally produced goods, including mobile phones and computers, under certain conditions to support domestic industries.

Chattogram City Mayor Dr Shahdat Hossain called the budget people-oriented and highlighted the proposed Tk 1,44,338 crore allocation for the social security sector, compared with Tk 1,26,731 crore in the revised FY2025-26 budget.

"The budget is realistic and aligned with current economic realities," he said.

The mayor also welcomed the plan to establish modern primary healthcare units in every union and urban ward, describing it as a major shift toward preventive healthcare.

Dr Shahdat indicated that this program aligns with the electoral commitments of the BNP government and will serve as a foundational element in efforts to transform the nation's healthcare system. 

City BNP Member Secretary Nazimur Rahman said the budget reflected the government's commitment to building a prosperous and developed Bangladesh.

He welcomed the proposed Tk 14,500 crore allocation for the phased nationwide rollout of the Family Card programme by 2030.

Chattogram South District BNP President Idris Mia said the budget would help stimulate economic growth, reduce poverty, improve education and healthcare, empower women and promote industrialisation.

Jatiya Party (JP) city leader Solaiman Alam Sheth described the proposed budget as ambitious yet development-oriented, saying it could create significant opportunities for businesses and the private sector. However, he urged the government to earmark a special allocation for the comprehensive development of Chattogram.

Several units of Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal also brought out separate processions in support of the proposed budget.