The International Business Forum of Bangladesh (IBFB) on Thursday endorsed the proposed national budget for fiscal year 2026-27, describing it as a pragmatic roadmap for economic recovery, investment growth and job creation.

At a press conference in Dhaka, IBFB President Lutfunnisa Saudia Khan said the budget sends a positive signal to businesses through measures aimed at boosting investment, industrialization, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), women and youth entrepreneurship, the digital economy and renewable energy.

She also welcomed the proposed increase in the tax-free income threshold, saying it could support consumption and business activity.

Khan said effective implementation of the budget could help attract both domestic and foreign investment, generate employment and accelerate economic growth. However, she cautioned that several challenges remain, including ambitious revenue collection targets, persistent inflationary pressures, weaknesses in the banking sector and institutional capacity constraints.

The business forum renewed calls for full digitalization of tax administration, structural reforms of the National Board of Revenue (NBR), improvements in the ease of doing business, expanded SME financing, stronger efforts to attract foreign direct investment and deeper capital market reforms.

Speaking at the event, former NBR chairman Muhammad Abdul Mazid stressed the importance of policy continuity and predictability in sustaining investor confidence and maintaining long-term economic stability.

IBFB officials said the success of the budget will depend on governance reforms and implementation effectiveness, arguing that a stable policy environment is essential for translating budget proposals into higher investment, stronger growth and sustainable development.

The press conference was attended by senior IBFB leaders, including former President Humayun Rashid, Director M.S. Siddiqui and Vice President Utpal Kumar Das.

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