Bangladesh Not Ready for LDC Graduation Yet: Finance Minister

Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said Bangladesh is not fully prepared to graduate from the Least Developed Countries (LDC) list under current economic conditions, citing mounting fiscal and structural challenges.

Speaking after a high-level consultation at the NEC conference room in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, the minister highlighted rising foreign and domestic debt, high borrowing costs, and weak financial management as key risks. He warned that ongoing energy crises and global supply chain disruptions could further fuel inflation, particularly in essential commodities.

The minister noted that while the government is trying to stabilize fuel prices, sustaining subsidies is becoming increasingly difficult. He described the current situation as a “day-to-day crisis,” with most economic indicators trending downward.

Officials, including representatives from the United Nations Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, presented findings from an independent assessment of Bangladesh’s preparedness for LDC transition.

Chowdhury emphasized that the government aims to avoid sudden public burden but warned that continued fiscal pressure could eventually impact citizens.

Amir Khasru stressed the need for cautious economic policymaking, structural reforms, and capacity building to ensure long-term stability.