The proposed national budget for the 2025–26 fiscal year is set to be approved on June 22, during a meeting of the Advisory Council, according to the Economic Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed . He also confirmed that feedback and suggestions from stakeholders and the general public on the draft budget will be accepted until June 19.
Dr. Ahmed made the comment while speaking to journalists on Wednesday at the Secretariat, after a meeting of the Government Procurement Advisory Committee. He noted that responses to the proposed budget have already started to come in and emphasized the importance of continuous feedback in shaping a well-rounded fiscal plan.
“It’s unrealistic to expect all opinions to arrive in one day,” he said. “We’re reviewing them as they come, and adjustments can be made where necessary.”
In response to questions about whether the proposed budget includes enough provisions for low-income and marginalized populations, Dr. Ahmed maintained that the budget does, in fact, include favorable measures. “There is auspicious news for all segments of the population. If you look closely at the areas where budgetary allocations and policies have been modified, you’ll see there are improvements,” he added. He expressed optimism that the final version of the budget would bring a sense of relief and stability to the general public.
During Wednesday’s meeting, the committee also approved several procurement proposals, including the purchase of vehicles for the police, as well as fertilizer and liquefied natural gas (LNG)—indicating the government’s continued focus on infrastructure and essential services.
Asked whether the 10-day Eid-ul-Azha holiday would negatively impact economic activity, Dr. Ahmed dismissed concerns of any major disruption. “There’s no scope for the economy to come to a halt,” he said. “Business owners will continue operations as needed, and the Bangladesh Bank has already published a schedule of which bank branches will remain open to ensure financial services continue uninterrupted.”
He also drew comparisons with global practices, stating, “Many countries have longer holiday seasons. For example, during Christmas, some places observe 20 to 25 days of vacation. In Nepal, the Dashain festival includes nearly 30 days of holiday.”
The final national budget is expected to address inflation, job creation, and sectoral development, while balancing fiscal discipline and public expectations.
