AGP Executive Report

Bangladesh Budget FY26-27: Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury tabled a Tk 9.38 lakh crore budget, pitching “recovery” through investment and production, while business groups welcomed the direction but warned execution and revenue targets are the real test. Key moves include a phased rise in the tax-free income ceiling, higher allocations for health and social safety, youth and sports funding (Tk 2,586cr), and capital market reform signals. Tax & finance reforms: The government proposed making TIN mandatory for new bank accounts and outlined a Central Data Integration plan linking NBR, NID and banks; it also revived a real-estate route to legalise undisclosed money via a 30% tax on declared gaps. Telecom policy: SIM tax withdrawal was welcomed by users’ and operators’ groups, though they urged broader telecom tax cuts. Governance & legal process: District committees will review and recommend withdrawal of long-pending “political harassment” cases filed between 2009 and Aug 5, 2024. Public services & security: Coast Guard station in the Sundarbans was attacked and vandalised, injuring personnel; police women’s network held a gender-sensitive policing workshop in Rangpur. Sports: Bangladesh beat Australia in the rain-affected 2nd ODI to seal their first-ever ODI series win, 2-0 up with the third match due Sunday.

Budget FY27 Launch: Bangladesh unveiled a record Tk 9.38tn budget targeting 6.5% growth and 7.5% inflation, with spending up 19% and development outlay rising sharply—while the government leans on both tax reforms and borrowing to fund the deficit. Tax Net Expansion: A new 0.20% advance income tax on goods supplied to retailers aims to widen the tax base, shifting collection to upstream businesses. Borrowing Plan: Foreign borrowing is set to more than double versus the revised FY26 figure to cover the gap, raising questions about financing amid a fragile banking sector. Healthcare Push: Health allocation nearly doubles to Tk 69,409cr, with a prevention-focused overhaul and a plan to lift health spending toward 5% of GDP. Cost-of-Living Measures: Tax-free income rises to Tk 3.75 lakh, senior citizens get free train rides and metro discounts, and duty/VAT cuts target essentials, medicines, and EVs. Business Reaction: Major chambers broadly welcome reforms but warn implementation and inflation risks, especially with heavy reliance on bank borrowing. Transport & Urban Life: Dhaka’s metro expansion and electric buses feature in the plan, and shop hours extend to 9pm. Border Politics & Protests: Jamaat calls the budget “anti-people,” announces border-district protests and a Dhaka rally, accusing India of “push-in” killings. Cricket Spotlight: Bangladesh’s historic 2-0 ODI series win over Australia continues to dominate sports coverage, alongside squad changes for the next T20I series.

Budget Countdown: Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury is set to place the FY27 national budget in parliament, with the outlay projected around Tk 9.38 trillion and a focus on stability, inflation control, and social spending—an early test for the BNP government’s economic promises. Banking Oversight: Bangladesh Bank appointed an observer to Islami Bank Bangladesh amid governance unrest, aiming to protect depositors and restore discipline through closer monitoring at board level. Digital Payments Push: Bangladesh Bank launched a nationwide Bangla QR campaign to boost interoperable digital payments. Border Tensions with India: Reports say 1,930 “illegal” Bangladeshis were sent back from West Bengal between May 19 and June 10, as Dhaka and New Delhi continue talks on push-ins and migrant welfare. Housing Delivery: The Jhilmil residential project in Keraniganj is set for home construction within a year, with new facilities and security measures underway. Health & Safety: The health minister told parliament there will be no anti-rabies vaccine shortage, citing multi-tier stockpiles and emergency procurement. Sports & Discipline: Nahid Rana’s ODI rise came with an ICC code-of-conduct reprimand after the Australia match. Environment & Education: Zubaida Rahman backed a green revolution via tree plantation, while the UGC unveiled plans to tackle higher-education problems through ongoing teacher training and a permanent stakeholder dialogue platform.

UNICEF Vaccine Deal: Cabinet committee approved Tk 412.71 crore vaccine procurement via UNICEF for the 2025-26 EPI programme, aiming to keep immunisation supplies uninterrupted. Armed Forces Discipline: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman urged military personnel to maintain professionalism, unity and chain of command, linking UN peacekeeping dignity to public trust. ICT Trial Update: International Crimes Tribunal-2 concluded the trial of Awami League leader Mahbubul Alam Hanif and three others over July 2024 mass uprising crimes, with verdict reserved for a later date. Foreign Investment Incentive: PM said a 1.5% commission/consultancy fee will be offered to individuals who successfully bring foreign investment to Bangladesh. Health System Strain: Health minister told parliament over 23,000 sanctioned doctor-nurse-health worker posts remain vacant, including major gaps at union-level facilities. Anti-Rabies Supply Plan: Government outlined a four-tier mechanism to ensure anti-rabies vaccine availability at upazila health complexes. Women’s Reserved Seat Dispute: Dhaka-14 MP questioned women lawmakers’ role in local development; PM defended reserved-seat MPs’ right to work in areas via party arrangements. Dhaka Waterways: Local Government decided to form DNCC and DSCC committees to demarcate Dhaka canal boundaries to restore normal water flow. Banking Turmoil: Bangladesh Bank reappointed an observer at Islami Bank amid unrest, while ABB warned the crisis is spilling into the wider banking sector. Human Trafficking Stance: Bangladesh reiterated zero tolerance on trafficking and irregular migration while pushing for safer, legal migration pathways with the EU. World Cup Cricket Moment: Bangladesh beat Australia in the first ODI in Dhaka after 21 years, with Mosaddek’s 86* and Nahid Rana’s 4-for powering an 86-run DLS win.

Budget Countdown: Finance Minister Amir Khosru says Bangladesh’s Tk 9.38t budget for FY2026-27 will cover “all sections” despite limited resources, with a projected deficit of Tk 2.43t. Parliament Watch: Jamaat-e-Islami has tabled a Tk 839,505cr “shadow budget,” while lawmakers clash in JS over Islami Bank Bangladesh’s ownership and management. Central Banking Push: Bangladesh Bank announced a Tk 100b refinancing scheme for agriculture with low-interest loans (8%) prioritising small farmers and women, plus a wider Tk 600b stimulus where agro gets Tk 100b. Energy & Diplomacy: Japan is set to provide a $312m emergency loan (with ADB co-financing) for energy security and resilience. Border Tensions: BGB DG-level talks with India’s BSF in Delhi continue amid “push-in” allegations and border killings; BGB says it foiled multiple push-in attempts. Health & Courts: A Dhaka court dismissed a plea to sue Yunus and others over measles deaths; measles toll is reported climbing. Economy & Jobs: SMEs, start-ups, creative economy and overseas job seekers are promised special focus in the upcoming budget. Sports Spotlight: Bangladesh stunned Australia in the 1st ODI in Mirpur, winning by 86 runs (DLS) as Nahid Rana and Mosaddek Hossain starred.

ODI Shock in Mirpur: Mosaddek Hossain hit an unbeaten 86 and Nahid Rana took 4-41 as Bangladesh beat Australia by 86 runs via DLS in the 1st ODI, their first 50-over win over the six-time champions since 2005. Energy Subsidy Pressure: Finance Minister Amir Khosru warned parliament West Asia instability could add Tk 426bn to fuel, gas, power and fertiliser subsidies this fiscal year. Japan Loan for Resilience: Tokyo confirmed a $312m (up to 50bn yen) soft loan with ERD/JICA to strengthen fiscal management and stable energy supply. Banking Confidence Push: Khosru told Jatiya Sangsad reforms under the Bank Resolution Act 2026, including deposit protection doubling to Tk 200,000, aim to restore trust. Islami Bank Liquidity Stress: Islami Bank sought Tk 10,000 crore liquidity support from Bangladesh Bank amid deposit withdrawals and protests over its chairman appointment. BSEC Fines: The finance minister said BSEC fined Tk 14.96bn over stock market irregularities after its reconstitution. Justice System Move: The High Court received records in the Pallabi child rape-murder death reference, setting up a priority hearing process. Cyber/Content Policing: A youth was arrested in Bagerhat for an offensive Facebook post about Zaima Rahman. World Cup Broadcast Rights: BTV secured FIFA World Cup rights for Tk 472.6m, with sub-licensing to other channels/OTT platforms. Regional Diplomacy: US envoy met Bangladesh opposition leader; Bangladesh also urged South Korea and Morocco to expand trade and hiring of Bangladeshi workers.

Border Governance & Humanitarian Risk: Bangladesh and India are set to discuss “push-in” attempts and border killings at the BGB-BSF DG-level talks in New Delhi, after reports of people being left for days in no-man’s-land without food or shelter. Detention/Deportation Friction: India says it has deported nearly 5,000 Bangladeshis since the BJP’s West Bengal win, while Bangladesh points to due-process concerns and ongoing holds. Prison Delays: Nearly 150 Indians remain in Bangladeshi prisons even after completing terms, with identity verification and repatriation stuck in procedural delays. Domestic Politics & Institutions: BNP leaders marked Ziaur Rahman’s 45th martyrdom anniversary, while the government appointed new chairpersons to five education boards and the NCTB. Education Policy: The government plans revised textbooks for 2027 and a new curriculum from 2028, adding subjects like Sports and Culture. Public Services Under Strain: Intern doctors continued indefinite work abstention, disrupting patient care, as garment workers also blocked Dhaka roads over layoffs and unpaid wages. Economy & Trade: Commerce minister warns LDC graduation could cost $17.5bn in export losses without preferential access. Energy/Cost of Living: LPG support for Ujjwala households is limited to ₹300 per cylinder for the first four refills each year. Water Security: Work on the Gandharbapur water treatment plant is aimed at supplying 50 crore litres of treated water to Dhaka daily. Labour Migration: Mauritius labour market reopening is moving ahead via a bilateral recruitment framework. Sports & Youth: Tamim Iqbal elected youngest BCB president; a teen innovator won double gold medals in Indonesia.

Border Tensions: A 48-hour Bangladesh-India standoff at the Mashalgaon border ended early Monday after BSF took back 11 people, including women and children, who had been stranded at the zero line. Food Security & Waste: A state minister told Parliament Bangladesh wastes about 3.5 million tonnes of food annually, while also citing steps to cut losses in storage and distribution. UN Diplomacy & Peacekeeping: Foreign Affairs State Minister Shama Obaed praised Bangladeshi UN peacekeepers and highlighted the risks they face and the sacrifices of their families. Competition & Consumer Protection: Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir said the government is moving to strengthen the Competition Commission and update consumer-rights laws to curb market dominance. Cyber Governance: Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said the Cyber Security Act will be amended to force faster removal of harmful AI-generated misinformation and defamatory content by platforms like Meta. Banking Reform: Bangladesh Bank outlined reforms to tackle weak banks and defaulted loans, and announced a Tk 1,000cr refinance scheme for green industries. Trade & Economy: Commerce Minister reported the trade deficit rose to $24.16bn in FY25 and warned LDC graduation could cost $17.5bn in export losses. Sports & Culture: Education reforms were announced—new subjects from 2027/2028—and Bangladesh’s cricket board leadership news continued to draw attention as Australia prepares for ODIs in Mirpur.

BCB Leadership & Cricket Governance: Tamim Iqbal has been elected Bangladesh Cricket Board president, with a push to restore the board’s reputation and build a new High Performance Centre in Purbachal, while Fahim Sinha takes the vice-president role. Capital Market Reform: The DSE saw a near two-year high in turnover as investors bet on BSEC overhaul; new BSEC chief Masud Khan vows full digitisation and faster IPO processing. Banking Sector Overhaul: Information minister Zahir Uddin Swapon says a reform commission will be formed to fix governance weaknesses in banking. Energy Security & Budget Signals: A JS special body recommends 12-point steps for long-term energy security, including larger strategic fuel reserves and full digital monitoring; meanwhile the upcoming budget is set to offer tax breaks for renewables, SMEs, and edible-oil producers, with possible mandatory TIN for bank accounts. Hydrocarbon Policy: Govt plans an onshore oil-and-gas bidding round after 28 years to boost domestic gas output. Health System Pressure: Intern doctors at Sylhet Osmani Medical College Hospital begin an indefinite strike over FCPS training and allowance demands.

BCB Leadership Shake-up: Former captain Tamim Iqbal was elected Bangladesh Cricket Board president after topping the club-category vote and then being chosen unopposed by the new director panel; the board election drew controversy over conflict-of-interest claims, while most regional directors were picked without contest. Border Security Talks: Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed says Bangladesh and India will discuss push-ins and other frontier issues at the June 8-11 DG-level BGB-BSF meeting in New Delhi, with Bangladesh insisting diplomatic resolution while keeping guards on alert. Humanitarian Border Incident: Ten people allegedly “pushed in” by BSF have been stranded for over 62 hours near the zero line in Panchagarh, with both sides refusing entry after a failed flag meeting. Media Regulation Push: Parliament hears a proposed Press Council Act amendment that would allow journalist registration, penalties for unethical/false reporting, and suo motu action on hate speech. Justice Watch: The Ramisa rape-murder case verdict is framed as a trust-restoring milestone; the law minister hopes the death-reference process can finish within three months. Energy Governance: A JS energy committee recommends expanding strategic fuel reserves to at least three months, diversifying imports, and adding digital monitoring; the government also outlines longer-term gas and LNG plans. Public Health Prep: Government steps to prevent dengue and chikungunya ramp up ahead of monsoon, including training, “dengue corners,” and city corporation drives. Housing Finance: Bangladesh Bank explores bond-based financing to support long-term, lower-rate housing loans, as REHAB presses for single-digit mortgages.

Ramisa verdict: Bangladesh’s Pallabi child rape-murder case verdict is due today (11:00am) by the Dhaka Metropolitan Children Violence Suppression Tribunal, just 19 days after the May 19 killing, with security tightened and both accused—Sohel Rana and Swapna Akter—already brought to court. Child protection push: Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal called for a national child safety task force to curb abuse, arguing law alone won’t solve the problem. Border tensions: India says illegal foreign nationals in India, including Bangladeshis, will be dealt with under law, while BGB reports multiple BSF push-in attempts foiled. UN diplomacy: Bangladesh’s FM Khalilur Rahman’s UNGA presidency is framed as a diplomatic boost amid domestic economic pressure, and six Bangladeshi peacekeepers received the UN Dag Hammarskjöld Medal posthumously. Energy & governance: Govt vows action against alleged power-sector oligarchs; land ministry orders asset statements by June 25; first budget session of the 13th JS begins today. Public health strain: Measles cases keep rising, with families facing steep treatment costs. Sports & society: Bangladesh’s historic Europe win and SAFF women’s football spotlight on Ritu Porna; BCB election set amid governance questions.

Human Trafficking Crackdown (Teknaf): Bangladesh Coast Guard rescued 50 people (including 11 Rohingya) from a Malaysia-bound boat off Teknaf and arrested nine suspected traffickers, saying victims were promised jobs, held in hideouts, and tortured for ransom. Border Security Row (India-Bangladesh): BGB blocked multiple “push-in” attempts by BSF, including 10 people at Panchagarh and 79 across five districts, while authorities said flag meetings failed to resolve the issue. Port Policy Uncertainty (Chattogram NCT): Conflicting shipping ministry letters on the DP World lease for Chattogram Port’s New Mooring Container Terminal have reignited debate; negotiations are said to still be ongoing. Diplomacy Pivot (Bangladesh–Türkiye): Turkish FM Hakan Fidan met PM Tarique Rahman in Dhaka, with both sides agreeing on annual foreign-minister consultations and annual 2+2 talks, plus a defence-foreign affairs ministerial committee; Rohingya and trade were key topics. Public Health & Accountability (Dengue/Ad-Din): State minister M A Muhith stressed dengue prevention through public awareness and city corporation sanitation drives, while Health Minister Sakhawat warned Ad-Din Hospital faces legal action if its newborn-death show-cause reply is unsatisfactory. Civic Order & Crime: DMP magistrates disposed of 5,209 criminal cases in May, and Coast Guard also detained a robber gang in Lakshmipur with cash and a firearm. Economy & Governance: Officials discussed a plan to push Bangladesh toward a $1 trillion economy by 2034, alongside calls to reform climate-health financing as allocations fell.

UN Peacekeeping: Six Bangladeshi UNISFA peacekeepers killed in a 2025 drone strike in Sudan were posthumously awarded the UN Dag Hammarskjöld Medal in New York, with UN chief António Guterres marking the International Day of UN Peacekeepers. Public Health: Bangladesh’s measles outbreak keeps worsening, with death toll reported above 600 as health authorities warn of mounting pressure on pediatric care and isolation capacity. Energy & Cost of Living: Thousands rallied in Dhaka against repeated electricity and fuel price hikes, with Jamaat-e-Islami leading the protest and critics saying incomes can’t keep up with rising essentials. Border & Security: India reiterated it has a bilateral mechanism to verify nationality and deport suspected illegal migrants, while Amit Shah announced “Smart Border” pilots to counter drones, trafficking and infiltration. Rohingya Diplomacy: Turkey’s FM Hakan Fidan visited Rohingya camps, urging a lasting, dignified return and pushing to keep the crisis on the international agenda. Transport/Infrastructure: A fire at HSIA’s cargo village was brought under control quickly with no impact on flight operations. Politics & Governance: UNDP’s outgoing Stefan Liller urged Bangladesh to strengthen democratic institutions where disagreement is handled peacefully. Business/Tech: Uber launched in Nepal, and Bangladesh’s TCB proposed an AI-linked system to track essentials’ prices and supply.

Border & Migration Tensions: India says it has a “structured bilateral mechanism” with Bangladesh to verify nationality of suspected illegal migrants before deportation, while Dhaka’s requests are still pending. Diplomacy & Partnerships: Bangladesh and Türkiye signed an MoU to protect cultural heritage, as Turkish FM Hakan Fidan said trade could rise from $1.3bn to $2bn; Bangladesh’s FM Khalilur Rahman reiterated “Bangladesh First” diplomacy. UNGA Spotlight: Khalilur Rahman’s election as UNGA president continues to shape Dhaka’s international messaging. Domestic Security & Politics: DMP imposed restrictions on gatherings near parliament for the budget session; BNP’s Mirza Fakhrul alleged coordinated social media “smear campaigns” against politicians. Law & Order: CID’s Akbar sought retirement after a promotion snub; a murder-case dispute resurfaced as Hadi’s sister questioned a plaintiff signature. Public Health & Climate: Bangladesh forecasts up to 10 heatwaves amid El Niño uncertainty; measles concerns persist as health authorities push vaccination. Regional Humanitarian/Crime: India’s MEA confirmed 13 foreign nationals died in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar hotel fire, including one Bangladeshi. Sports: SAFF Women’s Championship final set with India facing Bangladesh.

UNGA Leadership: Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman says his election as President of the 81st UNGA session reflects international confidence in Bangladesh, and hints he could keep his foreign ministry post concurrently. Capital Market Overhaul: Masud Khan, newly appointed BSEC chairman, pledges a real market reset—ending floor prices, cracking down on manipulation, and shifting away from retail-driven trading. Power Tariffs Fight: BERC rolls back electricity price hikes for lifeline and marginal consumers after government intervention, while Jamaat and opposition warn of backlash over cost-of-living pressure. Industrial Revival Finance: Bangladesh Bank launches a Tk 20,000cr pre-refinancing scheme at 7% to revive closed large-scale industries and services. FDI Push: Cabinet approves an FDI Incentive Scheme Policy (2026) and a Bangladesh Medical University amendment to expand services and allow participation in companies. Border Tensions: Bangladesh claims it foiled multiple Indian attempts to push people into its territory, with BGB warning of strict resistance. Health Accountability: Probe findings on Ad-din Hospital’s six newborn deaths point to negligence and legal action is expected. Diplomacy & Climate: Türkiye’s FM visits Dhaka for talks and Rohingya camp visits; Switzerland marks World Environment Day with tree-planting support. Human Interest: A rare albino buffalo nicknamed “Donald Trump” draws crowds at Dhaka’s national zoo after being moved from Eid-ul-Azha sacrifice plans.

UNGA Diplomacy: Bangladesh Cabinet congratulates Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on winning election as President of the 81st UN General Assembly, with Rahman saying he’ll keep both roles via leave rather than resignation. Capital Market Overhaul: Masud Khan appointed new BSEC chairman as the regulator’s chief and four commissioners resign amid a planned market oversight reshuffle; Masud vows to shift from retail-heavy trading to stronger institutional participation. Health Accountability: DGHS probe into six newborn deaths at Dhaka’s Ad-din Hospital points to “extreme negligence” and poor ventilation/AC issues; court timelines and legal action are moving. Governance & Elections Watch: ICC delegation in Dhaka will report findings on BCB governance and electoral matters ahead of the June 7 polls. Energy & Cost of Living: Jamaat demands rollback of the latest power tariff hike; CPD warns of mounting economic stress from weak revenue, inflation, and banking fragility. Environment Enforcement: “Polluter pays” remains largely ineffective, with only about half of imposed compensation recovered due to legal delays and loopholes. Public Safety: DMP says special drives during Eid holidays arrested thousands and seized major narcotics, while Dhaka dengue risk survey flags 63 wards at risk. Regional Tensions: Bangladesh says it foiled Indian attempts to push people across the border, warning violations will be resisted. Media/Tech Policy: Information minister seeks Australian support to build an independent media commission and curb AI misuse.