Online Desk  :  Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed on Tuesday said that Sri Lanka’s economic situation was not as dire as Bangladesh’s. Speaking to reporters after the Advisory Council Committee on Government Procurement meeting at the Secretariat, he said, “If Sri Lanka’s economy were in the same state as Bangladesh’s, we wouldn’t even be talking about it.” Salehuddin addressed comparisons often drawn between the economies of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, asserting that the two nations are fundamentally different. “The economic condition of Sri Lanka is not as bad as Bangladesh’s,” he emphasised. “Had it been similar to ours, Sri Lanka would have faced far greater challenges.”

When asked whether this implied that Bangladesh’s situation was worse than Sri Lanka’s, Salehuddin elaborated, “When we assumed office, the banking sector in Bangladesh was in a precarious state—only 12 out of 60 banks were functioning properly, while the rest were struggling.” He questioned whether such a scenario had occurred in any other country, highlighting how one-third of Bangladesh’s banks were effectively non-functional. He further explained, “In discussions, I cited Sri Lanka as an example where inflation has decreased despite being a small nation. Their policy ensures continuity; whoever comes to power politically must support agreements made by previous governments. In contrast, we face numerous challenges here. Critics who dislike our efforts simply demand, ‘Go away.’ But I am striving to make things somewhat bearable under these circumstances.”

Addressing concerns over Ramadan imports : Responding to journalists’ queries regarding fruit traders threatening to halt imports and clearance during Ramadan unless VAT and taxes are reduced, Salehuddin remained firm. “That is their decision,” he said. “I have no additional actions planned for this issue. We will assess the situation of fruit imports during Ramadan.” He noted that duties on date imports had already been lifted long ago, underscoring the availability of essential items like dates for the upcoming holy month.

On calls for BSEC chairman’s resignation : Regarding protests by investors demanding the resignation of the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) chairman, Salehuddin dismissed the calls. “Let them voice their opinions; everyone speaks from their own perspective,” he remarked. “Those facing losses naturally express dissatisfaction. However, this isn’t about the current chairman—it pertains to actions taken by predecessors.”  He pointed out irregularities committed before the interim government took office, including the misallocation of Tk 3000 crore through sukuk bonds. “We are working to address these issues systematically,” he concluded.