DHAKA: Finance Minister AMA Muhith is to table the new national budget in parliament in few hours, likely with a total outlay of Tk 132,000 crore—a substantial quantum of the money could be reckoned as deficit finance.

This will be the 39th National Budget of the country and 2nd for the ruling Awami League-led center-left Grand Alliance government.

“The budget would focus on five major areas - developing power scenario, increasing agricultural production, increase in revenue collection and investment, and controlling inflation,” said an official about its outlook.

A major issue for the country – black money – would also find a place this year and the government is highly likely to allow money whitening in case of investing it in specific sectors that cry for huge funds.

“The tax rate would be higher this time,” said the official, as the government needs to increase revenue earnings to finance the relatively big budget that may target expansionary growth.

On the other hand, the revenue and development budgets are likely to merge this time around.

Besides, separate budgets for district level are likely to be introduced.

The government is likely to levy higher rates of tax on luxury goods to lessen dependence on import duties.

BDST: 0930 HRS. June 10, 2010
SR/SRJ/FA/MUA