The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has agreed to extend budgetary support to Bangladesh as the country grapples with mounting pressure from an ongoing energy crisis and wider economic challenges, the finance minister said on Saturday.
Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury made the announcement after a meeting with private sector leaders at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon, chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
He said the support would help the government absorb rising pressure in the energy sector amid a volatile global environment, while maintaining macroeconomic stability.
According to the minister, the AIIB funding will focus on climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable projects, alongside efforts to strengthen long-term energy security.
The government is also ramping up its renewable energy ambitions, with a renewed push to expand solar power generation and increase financing for the electric vehicle sector.
Authorities are targeting 20–30% of total electricity generation from solar energy in the coming years.
During the meeting, business leaders highlighted persistent challenges linked to the cost and ease of doing business in Bangladesh. The prime minister addressed several concerns on the spot and instructed officials to fast-track solutions to the remaining issues.
The finance minister said the government is moving to restart closed industrial units to support rapid job creation. Efforts are also under way to revive stalled projects as part of a broader strategy to boost employment and economic activity.
He added that the current situation remains under control through a combination of domestic resources and international support, though he declined to comment on possible fuel price adjustments or the size of the upcoming national budget.
The minister expressed optimism that closer coordination between the government and the private sector would help Bangladesh navigate the ongoing energy and economic challenges.