ZCZC
BSS-39
CPD-PRESS CONFERENCE
CPD for more stimulus packages to offset shock of COVID-19
DHAKA, Feb 15, 2021 (BSS) – The Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), a civil
society think tank, today suggested the government to deliver another round
of stimulus packages to ensure sustainable recovery of the country’s affected
economy due to COVID-19 pandemic.
They came up with the recommendations at a virtual press conference on the
state of the economy held today.
Distinguished fellow of the CPD Dr Mustafizur Rahman, its executive
director Dr Fahmida Khatun and research director Dr Khondaker Golam Moazzem
spoke at the press conference.
Senior research fellow Dr Toufiqul Islam Khan highlighted the
recommendations of the “State of the Bangladesh Economy 2021”.
The think tank said that the large industry sector is making a rebound from
the shock of COVID-19 thanks to the stimulus packages announced by the
government.
But, they noted that the micro entrepreneurs could not avail fully the
benefits of the stimulus packages for which there is a need for announcing
another round of stimulus packages.
The CPD said the investment sector was the most affected during this
pandemic and for this the new stimulus packages should have to be delivered
in such a way which could prioritize generating more employments and micro
industry sector.
Dr Mustafizur said, “The economic recovery of the post pandemic situation
is mixed. The state of public investment is good. But, private investment was
the most affected due to COVID-19. As a result, the process of generating
employments is being hindered in general.”
Under the circumstances, he suggested for awarding another round of
stimulus packages by the government. Side by side, Dr Mustafizur stressed the
need for putting more emphasis on investment-friendly programme in the
revised budget of the current fiscal year.
The country’s economy passed well the first of the current fiscal year
where high inward remittance flow, export earnings and the agriculture sector
played a good role, Dr Toufiqul said.
“Besides, the revenue collection is in good condition as it posted an 8.8
percent growth during the July-October period of the current fiscal year,” he
added.
The CPD also suggested the government to take proactive measures to rein in
inflation, especially to boost the current stockpile of rice to 10 lakh
tonnes from the present 7 lakk tonnes.
BSS/ASG/RI/GM/SSS/1945 hrs