The Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) has welcomed the inclusion of tax reforms and expanded solar power import facilities in the proposed 2026–27 national budget. In a statement issued on Friday, the association thanked the finance minister and the National Board of Revenue for increasing tax benefits in the solar energy sector and moving toward a medium-term policy framework.

BKMEA noted that the long-standing demand for an effective system to adjust or refund advance income tax (AIT) at source remains crucial, as delays in refunds restrict working capital and create liquidity challenges. The group also viewed the expansion of tax benefits for solar systems and related equipment as a positive step to address the energy crisis. It supported duty-free raw material imports for non-bonded export-oriented firms but urged reconsideration of the proposed 5% tax on polyester staple fiber imports, citing limited domestic production.

The association emphasized that gas and electricity shortages and high interest rates continue to challenge the industry. While it assessed the proposed budget positively, BKMEA said its success will depend on effective implementation by relevant institutions.