Finance Minister Khosru says new IMF deal will put public interest first

Dhaka has begun talks with an IMF delegation after seeking a fresh three-year lending agreement in June

Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has said Bangladesh will pursue a new IMF loan programme, describing the previous agreement under the Awami League government as “entirely against the public interest”.

Speaking after meeting a 12-member IMF delegation at the Secretariat on Sunday, he said the new initiative will ensure public interest and economic security.

“The government will not join any IMF programme that harms the people's interests."

Bangladesh secured a $4.70 billion IMF package in early 2023 and received $3.64 billion in five instalments before the sixth tranche stalled over unmet conditions.

The government sought a new $4-4.5 billion, three-year programme in June.

Khosru also pledged visa reforms to attract more tourists, foreign investment and strengthen global confidence.