There's nothing left in finance sector: Adviser Salehuddin

There's nothing left in the country's finance sector, Finance Advisor Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said today (27 August). 

"You [journalists] probably do not know, but there is nothing left in finance. Yet, we are keeping the economy running," he said during a press briefing following a meeting with revenue officials at the headquarters of the National Board of Revenue (NBR).

Referring to the poor state of the finance sector, he termed it as, "15 years of mess." 

At that time, the NBR chairman, who was also present on the occasion, said "It will need time [to fix]."

Several members of the interim government have recently blamed the ousted Awami League-led government for ruining the county's economy.

Speaking at a meeting with businessmen on 20 August, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus said his government has been left with a broken economy. 

He, however, expressed optimism that the government will soon be able to recover from this situation through significant reforms.

Meanwhile, during today's press briefing, the finance adviser asked NBR officials to ensure that goods consignments are released at a fast pace from the Chittagong Port.

"Bill of entry or bill of lading should be issued timely so that no obstacle is created on the part of the government. Release [goods of] those who pay revenue, hold [goods] of those who do not," he added.

Salehuddin Ahmed also called to prioritise releasing private sector goods.

"Revenue collection should be maximum without causing hardship to people. We can't continue to operate by taking loans all the time."

On the occasion, NBR Chairman Abdur Rahman Khan said the revenue board will be able to fulfil its target for the fiscal year.

"We will collect revenue from the businessmen by restoring full confidence. We can cover [the target]," he said in reply to a query. 

Besides, he said they will try to collect the revenue on time.