Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury on Wednesday called for ensuring a “level playing field” in the country’s economy, saying growth must benefit people from all walks of life.
Speaking at a reception for newly appointed ministers and state ministers at the finance ministry, he said the economy must be inclusive and participatory to bring lasting change.
“The economy has to be for everyone. We must build a system where all sections of society can take part. Only then will the benefits of growth reach every household,” he said.
Referring to the political changes after August 5, the minister said public expectations have shifted and economic policies must reflect that change.
“There has been a transformation in people’s mindset. Our economic activities must align with that reality,” he said, adding that restoring confidence in state institutions would be a key priority.
He stressed the need to strengthen public institutions by improving professionalism, transparency and efficiency.
“The first task is to recover and rebuild our institutions. Without strong and credible institutions, sustainable economic progress is not possible,” he said.
Khasru also called for moving away from what he described as a patronage-driven system towards a democratic economic structure.
“To do this, we need deregulation and liberalisation. We cannot depend only on manufacturing. The economy must expand into new areas,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of bringing diverse sectors — including sports, culture and small traditional industries — into the broader economic framework.
As an example, the minister mentioned the traditional shital pati artisans of Barishal. A simple mat sells for Tk 600 to Tk 700, he noted, but with proper training, access to credit and online marketing, artisans could diversify their products and tap into much larger markets.
“If we create the right support system, even small producers can become part of a much bigger economic network,” he said.
Finance State Minister Jonaed Saki, speaking at the event, said the country’s economic system should be shaped in line with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s 31-point programme. He called for building a democratic and people-centred economy and sought cooperation from officials at all levels to achieve that goal.
Among those present were Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur, Finance Division Secretary Dr Khairuzzaman Mozumder, Financial Institutions Division Secretary Abdur Rahman Khan, and senior officials of the ministry.