Government cuts spending in 9 sectors, including officials’ cars and housing

The government has ordered cost-cutting measures across nine sectors to manage pressure from the ongoing global crisis linked to the Middle East conflict.

The Cabinet Division recently issued a circular to all secretaries, divisional commissioners, deputy commissioners and upazila executive officers, directing immediate implementation.

The decision follows a cabinet meeting held on April 2, where steps were taken to reduce government operating expenses. The measures will remain in effect until further notice.

Key directives include:

1. Fuel use for government vehicles will be reduced by 30%.
2. Interest-free loans for purchasing cars for officials and all government-funded foreign training are suspended.
3. Internal training costs will be cut by 50%.
4. Meeting and seminar hospitality expenses will be reduced by 50%, and overall seminar costs by 20%.
5. Travel expenses will be reduced by 30%.
6. All purchases of vehicles, watercraft, aircraft and computers are suspended (100% reduction).
7. Use of fuel, electricity and gas in government offices will be reduced by 30%.
8. Beautification costs: residential buildings cut by 20%, non-residential by 50%.
9. Land acquisition spending is fully suspended (100% reduction).

Officials say the measures aim to control public spending and ensure efficient use of resources during a period of global economic uncertainty.