Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury  -File photo

DHAKA, Feb 18, 2026 (BSS) - Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury 
today said that Bangladesh must build such an economy which would ensure the 
participation of all citizens, regardless of class or profession.

He said the country's economic policies should be designed for the benefit of 
all people and that meaningful change in the overall economy would only be 
possible if individuals from every level and profession are actively engaged 
in economic activities.

"The economy must have a level playing field. We have to create opportunities 
so that every citizen of Bangladesh can participate in economic activities 
and enjoy the benefits of growth," the minister said while addressing a 
reception programme held at the conference room of the Finance Ministry today 
to welcome the newly-appointed Minister and State Minister.

Referring to the changes in public mindset following August 5 mass uprising, 
Khasru, also the Minister for Planning, said economic initiatives must align 
with the evolving expectations of the people. 

He emphasized the need to rehabilitate and strengthen state institutions that 
are currently in a weakened condition, said a Finance Ministry press release 
here.

"Our immediate priority is to recover our institutions. We must ensure 
professionalism, transparency and efficiency within these institutions," he 
said.

The Finance Minister further said that a patronage-based economy must be 
transformed into a democratic economic system. To achieve this, he 
underscored the importance of deregulation and liberalization.

"We should not remain confined to a manufacturing-based economy. We need to 
diversify and involve other sectors, including sports, culture and various 
professions," he added.

Highlighting the potential of traditional cottage industries, the Minister 
cited the example of shital pati (cooling mats) produced in Barishal. 

A simple mat currently sells for Taka 600 to Taka 700, but with proper 
training, access to credit and online marketing facilities, artisans could 
produce diversified designs and products, creating a vast market for such 
goods, he noted.

Speaking at the function, State Minister for Finance and Planning Zonayed 
Saki said the country's economic system should be structured in line with the 
implementation of the 31-point outline of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, and 
called for establishing a democratic economic order.

They also sought cooperation from officials at all levels to advance 
Bangladesh's economy.

Among others, Governor of Bangladesh Bank Ahsan H Mansur, Finance Division 
Secretary Dr Md Khairuzzaman Mozumder and secretaries of different divisions 
under the Finance Ministry were present at the event.