Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed on Tuesday clarified that the government is not importing LNG from any single source, but rather sourcing it from multiple international suppliers after careful comparison of global market prices.
“We’re procuring LNG from various countries including the USA, China, and Saudi Arabia, based on price competitiveness and demand,” he told reporters after presiding over two key meetings on government purchase and economic affairs held at the Bangladesh Secretariat. “It’s not feasible or permissible to rely on a single source without adhering to procurement rules.”
Macroeconomic Stability and Tax Reforms
On the broader economic front, Dr. Salehuddin said the government is focusing on macroeconomic consolidation and intensifying efforts to boost tax revenue. He noted the inclusion of tax lawyers in the Tax Representative Management System (TRMS) as a significant move toward improved tax compliance.
He also pointed out that revenue collection is gradually improving, after earlier disruptions due to political uncertainties. “We are now seeing better trade and commerce activity, and revenue generation is picking up accordingly,” he said.
Bangladesh-USA Trade Gap Narrowing
In response to queries about the ongoing visit of the USTR (United States Trade Representative) delegation, the adviser stated that the Commerce Ministry is primarily handling the issue. He noted that Bangladesh is working to reduce its trade gap with the USA by importing more American goods.
“Our trade deficit with the USA is narrowing, and although it’s still modest compared to countries like Vietnam, we’re moving in the right direction,” he said. Dr. Salehuddin acknowledged that importing more from the U.S. might raise costs but emphasized the importance of quality and long-term trade balance.
“For instance, wheat from the USA may cost more, but the quality is higher. To balance trade, we need to import more from the U.S., even if prices are slightly higher,” he added.
Inflation, Employment, and Market Irregularities
Commenting on inflation, the adviser said that while non-food inflation is showing signs of decline, there are still market irregularities, particularly at the wholesale and retail levels, which often defy economic logic.
He stressed that the government continues to support low-income groups by ensuring essential goods at subsidized prices through the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB).
On employment, Dr. Salehuddin acknowledged that job creation remains a persistent challenge, especially when business operations slow down. However, he emphasized that the government is supporting the private sector, which plays the leading role in employment generation.
“Employment generation is a priority, and we approved new proposals today to support job creation through local initiatives. Business-oriented jobs are critical,” he said.
He also mentioned that the National Board of Revenue (NBR) is actively working to detect tax evasion, reviewing tax files, and taking action against defaulters.
On Fertilizer Procurement Irregularities
When asked about allegations of irregularities in fertilizer procurement, Dr. Salehuddin assured that the matter would be looked into. He noted that fertilizer procurement is primarily handled by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Industries.
“We’re aware of the concerns and will examine them,” he stated.
The finance adviser concluded by reaffirming the interim government’s commitment to maintaining economic stability, improving revenue collection, supporting business activity, and ensuring transparency in public procurement.