The interim government has launched a special initiative to stimulate rural employment as part of broader measures to reinvigorate the economy, Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed has said.
In a recent interview with Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), Dr Salehuddin Ahmed detailed steps taken to sustain production in industries and create employment opportunities.
"We are committed to fostering employment, particularly by supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which hold immense potential for local job creation," he said.
"There were some financing challenges in this sector, but we have instructed Bangladesh Bank to ensure credit flow to cottage, small, and medium enterprises (CSMEs). Their role in the national economy is significant."
To generate employment at the grassroots level, the Annual Development Programme (ADP) has incorporated numerous small-scale projects, including local infrastructure development, bridge and culvert construction, and environmental initiatives. "These projects will play a key role in job creation," he added.
Salehuddin Ahmed noted that while the economy has largely stabilised, the private sector remains cautious.
"They are in a wait-and-watch mode, but they have not come to a standstill. They are waiting for additional support, especially in terms of financing," he said.
"Simplifying tax procedures and improving access to finance remain crucial. We have eased restrictions on opening letters of credit (LCs), allowing machinery imports, though capital equipment imports are still somewhat regulated."
On tackling financial crime, Ahmed stated that actions against money launderers have already begun, with major corporations implicated.
"Bangladesh Bank and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) are working on this, while a task force is investigating money laundering activities," he said.
"It takes time to track these transactions, as financial crime is highly technical. Investigations are ongoing into funds laundered to Singapore and other locations."
Legal procedures must be followed to recover funds, and international cooperation is essential, he stressed.
"A British firm is providing technical assistance, and other entities have also offered support," he said.
Regarding high-profile financial crimes, the adviser revealed that investigations are underway into 11–12 major corporations.
"Money laundering cases are sensitive; premature disclosure of information could jeopardise recovery efforts," he cautioned.
The interim government’s multi-pronged approach aims to stabilise the economy while ensuring greater financial transparency and accountability.
