Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed has candidly acknowledged the constraints in implementing significant reforms, stating, "We may not be able to carry out large-scale reforms, but we aspire to leave a mark."
He made these remarks on Sunday (9 February), during an exchange of views on the role of remittances in Bangladesh's economy at the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum (BSRF) office.
Addressing queries about the duration of his tenure, Ahmed remarked, "Many ask how soon we will leave. We are prepared to depart at any time. My previous position at BRAC University remains open."
Emphasising transparency, he added, "We welcome criticism, as mistakes do occur. Journalists point them out, and we strive to rectify them. We do not seek blind support. Constructive criticism is what we expect, and we will make every effort to improve."
In response to questions regarding the mid-fiscal year VAT increase, Salehuddin Ahmed noted, "There was no immediate scope to raise taxes. An additional Tk12,000 crore is not an exorbitant amount. With 300 police vehicles burned, one must ask where that money will come from. If VAT is imposed on sandals, we will review it. Many question why biscuits are taxed; if it affects lower-income groups, we will certainly reconsider. The gap is significant—we are walking a tightrope, with risks on both sides."
He concluded by commenting on the current state of the economy, stating, "The economy has reached a reasonably balanced state, though I would not claim it is fully stable. Compared to other countries, we are in a better position. We are making efforts to initiate and sustain progress."
