In a significant clarification of the administration’s fiscal strategy, Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir has emphasised that Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury is focused on expanding the national tax-to-GDP ratio rather than increasing the financial burden on individual taxpayers. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, 1 March 2026, following a high-level briefing with government officials at the Sylhet Circuit House, the Minister sought to allay public concerns regarding potential tax hikes.
Strategic Trade and Market Stability
The Commerce Minister revealed that Bangladesh has formally petitioned the European Union to initiate negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This move is seen as a cornerstone of the post-transition economic recovery, aimed at securing preferential market access as the country navigates global economic headwinds.
Addressing domestic concerns, Minister Muktadir assured the public that the markets would remain stable throughout the remainder of Ramadan and the subsequent months. Despite the “global recessionary pressures” triggered by US tariff policies, he confirmed that the government is taking proactive measures to ensure timely salary payments for workers, enabling them to celebrate the upcoming Eid festivities without financial distress.
Infrastructure and Integrity in Governance
The briefing also featured Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie, the Minister for Water Resources, who reiterated Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s mandate to prioritise projects of immense public importance. He noted that the Sylhet region, prone to environmental volatility, would see immediate focus on flood prevention and riverbank protection.
“The deep-seated corruption inherited from the previous regime remains a formidable challenge. We are committed to delivering public works through a transparent, corruption-free process.” — Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie
Global Labour Markets and Migration
Adding to the ministerial discourse, Expatriate Welfare Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury confirmed that diplomatic efforts are underway to reopen stagnant labour markets. The government is engaging in high-level talks with traditional partners to streamline migration and secure employment for Bangladeshi nationals abroad.
| Sector | Key Government Initiatives | Ministerial Lead |
| Fiscal Policy | Improving Tax-to-GDP ratio; no individual tax hikes | Amir Khosru |
| International Trade | Formal FTA negotiations with the European Union | K.A. Muktadir |
| Water Resources | Haor embankments and flood control in Sylhet | S.U.C. Annie |
| Expatriate Welfare | Reopening markets in Saudi Arabia and Malaysia | Ariful Haque |
The collective briefings underscore a multi-pronged approach to governance, balancing macroeconomic stability with grassroots infrastructure and the restoration of institutional integrity.