Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has pledged to restore discipline in Bangladesh’s economic sector and repatriate laundered money, ending what he termed a fascist regime. Speaking during Monday’s national budget session, he proposed several amendments aimed at easing the tax burden on citizens, withdrawing the controversial provision for legalizing undisclosed income, and promoting domestic industries and private higher education.

The Prime Minister proposed raising the tax-free income threshold to 400,000 taka for 2026–27, gradually increasing it to 500,000 taka by 2030–31. He suggested reducing taxes on private universities from 10% to 5% while urging them to strengthen research, establish language labs, and offer free education to poor and meritorious students. He also recommended tax exemptions for small ethnic groups, tariff cuts on key industrial raw materials, and incentives for local manufacturing, including shrimp farming, LED lamps, and prefabricated buildings.

Rahman announced a 5 billion taka startup fund to support freelancers and entrepreneurs, calling it a historic first. He also proposed lowering VAT on online advertising and jewelry, and simplifying VAT compliance to foster a more business-friendly environment.