Written By: Baharin Akter Antora
Dhaka, May 12, 2026 — Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has described the country’s current investment climate as “painful,” citing global economic uncertainty and challenges within the banking sector, while emphasizing the government’s commitment to reform and startup-driven economic growth.
The Finance Minister made the remarks while inaugurating Bangladesh Startup Investment Company at a hotel in Dhaka on Tuesday.
Speaking at the event, he said Bangladesh’s economy is currently passing through a difficult phase due to global market volatility and structural weaknesses in the financial sector. However, he expressed optimism that ongoing reforms and investment in entrepreneurship could help restore confidence and accelerate sustainable growth.
BSIC has been established with the ownership participation of 39 commercial banks and aims to support Bangladesh’s growing startup ecosystem through structured investment and long-term financing.
According to officials, the company has started operations with an initial fund of Tk 4.5 billion, with plans to increase the fund size to Tk 7 billion by the end of the year. The initiative also includes a provision to contribute 1% of the banking sector’s total net profit to ensure the fund’s long-term sustainability.
The Finance Minister said the government is working closely with international organizations, including the World Bank, International Finance Corporation, and JPMorgan Chase, to strengthen transparency, governance, and professionalism in the country’s banking system.
He also announced plans for major reforms in the capital market, including stricter regulatory measures aimed at improving investor confidence and ensuring greater market discipline.
Mostaqur Rahman said transparency and accountability would be critical to the success of the startup investment initiative. He noted that although several previous startup funds struggled to achieve expected outcomes, the active participation of private banks has created renewed optimism for the sector.
Mashrur Arefin has been appointed as the first chairman of BSIC. The company’s board also includes managing directors from Sonali Bank, Eastern Bank, Pubali Bank, and Mutual Trust Bank.
During the event, the Finance Minister also highlighted the importance of building a “creative economy” focused on rural development and grassroots entrepreneurship. He said the government aims to create employment opportunities for nearly 10 million people through inclusive economic initiatives and innovation-driven growth.
Officials and industry stakeholders attending the event described the launch of BSIC as a significant step toward strengthening Bangladesh’s startup ecosystem and improving access to institutional investment for emerging businesses.
