Khosru rolls out massive Tk 9.38 trillion budget as Bangladesh chases price stability, jobs, investment

The finance minister is proposing Bangladesh's largest-ever budget, setting a 6.5% growth target and pledging to bring inflation down to 7.5%

Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury is delivering a Tk 9.38 trillion national budget for FY2026-27, the first under the BNP-led government formed after the February parliamentary election.

Presenting the fiscal outlay in parliament on Thursday, Khosru described it as a roadmap for rebuilding the economy and steering Bangladesh towards stability, investment-led growth, and greater social inclusion.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Leader of the Opposition Shafiqur Rahman were present in the House during the budget session chaired by Speaker M Hafiz Uddin Ahmad.

The proposed budget is the largest in Bangladesh's history, a huge jump from the Tk 7.9 trillion budget presented for FY2025-26 by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus following the July Uprising of 2024 that ended the Awami League's 15-year rule.

Opening his budget speech, Khosru highlighted the economic challenges inherited from the previous government and the realities that emerged after the political transition of 2024.

"We are presenting this budget not merely as an account of government income and expenditure, but as part of a roadmap to restore economic stability and unlock the country's immense economic potential," he said.

"Our proposed budget reflects the government's commitment to ensuring a secure, prosperous and dignified life for people from all walks of life."

Despite persistent inflation, sluggish revenue growth, and mounting global uncertainties, the government has opted for an expansionary budget that sets ambitious economic targets.

Khosru said the budget had been formulated with a focus on stability, investment, production, employment and fairness, while addressing risks stemming from domestic economic weaknesses, and global volatility.

"We believe that through the implementation of these plans and strategies, Bangladesh will become a trillion-dollar economy by 2034," he said.

The government has set a target of reducing inflation to 7.5 percent and raising economic growth to 6.5 percent in the coming fiscal year.

To achieve these goals, the budget has been built around 10 priorities. These are as follows:

• Development for all,

• Quality education and healthcare,

• Universal social protection,

• Investment and employment-led growth,

• Deregulation and an easier business environment,

• Financial sector stability,

• National security,

• Information and communication technology,

• Environmental protection and natural resource management, and

• Transparent and accountable institutions.

The budget has been titled "Journey Towards a Democratic, Humane and Inclusive Economy."