PM Terms FY27 Budget as ‘Life-Centric’ One

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today described the proposed national budget for the 2026–27 fiscal year as a “life-centric” blueprint designed to bring tangible relief and comfort to citizens navigating a challenging economic landscape.

Participating in the general discussion on the proposed FY27 budget in the National Parliament, the Prime Minister emphasized that state governance requires balanced policies. With Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram in the chair, the Leader of the House presented a realistic defense of the government's economic measures.

Key Focus Areas of the FY27 Budget Speech

• Tax Relief on Essentials: Import taxes on 61 essential commodities have been completely or near-completely withdrawn to stabilize market prices.

• Market Stability: Unlike previous fiscal cycles where budget announcements triggered artificial inflation, basic consumer goods have maintained stable pricing before and after the declaration.

• Macroeconomic Recovery: The administration stepped in on February 18 to revive a fragile financial sector, addressing a 40 percent depreciation of the Taka, depleting foreign exchange reserves, and legacy liabilities from non-revenue-generating vanity projects.

"The reality is very challenging. Nevertheless... we have used our utmost wisdom, judgment, and knowledge to prepare a budget that can provide at least some relief and comfort to people from all walks of life."

— Prime Minister Tarique Rahman

The Prime Minister explicitly outlined the systemic economic vulnerabilities inherited by the present BNP administration, noting that stalled domestic investment and severe capital market mismanagement had pushed ordinary investors to despair over the past two and a half years.

Acknowledging massive capital flight—a reality recognized both domestically and internationally—the Prime Minister welcomed the constructive critique of the opposition. He expressed full alignment with Opposition Leader Dr. Shafiqur Rahman on utilizing political goodwill and rigorous policy instruments to confront these inherited financial structural imbalances.

The floor was addressed first by Opposition Leader Dr. Shafiqur Rahman during the concluding phase of the debate, followed by the Prime Minister's final remarks, which were greeted with resounding desk thumps of appreciation from treasury bench lawmakers.