Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed has stated that Bangladesh’s economic and commercial relations with India will remain unaffected regardless of ongoing political developments.
His remarks came during a press briefing on Wednesday (4 December) following a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Government Procurement at the secretariat.
Addressing the media, Dr Salehuddin Ahmed clarified that the strains in political ties with India are unlikely to influence trade relations.
“Businesspersons are not swayed by political rhetoric; they sell products where there is demand. Bangladesh will procure goods from wherever they are most affordable,” he affirmed.
Commenting on current imports, he highlighted ongoing discussions about rice procurement from India, Myanmar, and Vietnam, assuring that there would be no shortage of essential goods during Ramadan.
However, he acknowledged a global surge in soybean prices, which has led to some supply issues in the local market.
Dr Salehuddin Ahmed also revealed a concerning trend in the country’s foreign reserves, stating that $24 billion had moved abroad from Bangladesh Bank’s reserves, leading to stagnant deposit growth in banks.
Nevertheless, he expressed optimism that inflation would decrease to 7% by June.
On the persistent issue of rising commodity prices, Dr Salehuddin Ahmed attributed it to syndicates involved in political extortion, which continue to disrupt the market despite political changes.
The adviser’s remarks underscored the government’s focus on stabilising the economy amidst global challenges and local political dynamics.
