At a time when Bangladeshโs economy is struggling with high inflation, market instability, and a decline in the purchasing power of ordinary citizens, fresh concerns have emerged over the proposed budget for the 2026โ27 fiscal year. Political discussions have once again brought attention to BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahmanโs past remark: โI have a plan.โ Critics now argue that the proposed tax policies are revealing what that โplanโ actually looks like.
Allegations have surfaced that after coming to power through the controversial and widely boycotted February 12 election, the BNP government is moving toward increasing the tax burden on essential commodities. According to sources within the Finance Ministry, the proposed 2026โ27 budget includes plans to raise taxes and VAT on rice, lentils, potatoes, onions, edible oil, and several other everyday consumer goods. Discussions are also underway regarding new or increased taxes on motorcycle use, battery-powered rickshaws, and mobile phone services.
Economists warn that increasing taxes at such a critical time could create even greater hardship for ordinary people. Inflation already crossed 9 percent in April this year, while food prices continue to rise almost daily. Lower and middle-income families are struggling to manage household expenses, and many say they are being forced to cut down even on basic food consumption by the end of each month.
The government aims to collect nearly 6.04 trillion taka in revenue through the upcoming budget. However, opposition voices and critics argue that the main burden of this revenue target is being placed directly on ordinary citizens. They claim that instead of taking effective action against major loan defaulters, tax evaders, and influential financial groups, the government has chosen the easier path of increasing taxes on essential goods and public consumption.
Some political analysts believe that imposing additional economic pressure on citizens while facing questions over electoral legitimacy could become politically risky for the government. Rising commodity prices, employment uncertainty, and additional taxes are collectively increasing frustration among the public.
The issue has also sparked widespread discussion on social media. Many users sarcastically wrote, โPay taxes if you want to survive, otherwise prepare to fight hunger.โ Others questioned whether this was the โplanโ that had been promised earlier.
Economists have cautioned that without effective market control, stronger consumer protection, and measures to increase peopleโs purchasing power, relying heavily on taxation could deepen the countryโs economic challenges. They warn that the coming fiscal year may become even more difficult, particularly for lower-income and middle-class citizens.
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