Microfinance sector leaders name for supportive budgetary insurance policies
A nationwide session titled “Microfinance Sector Consultations on the Nationwide Finances 2025-26” was held on Monday on the BRAC Centre in Mohakhali, Dhaka. Picture: Collected
DHAKA, Could 21, 2025 (BSS) – INAFI Bangladesh has organized a nationwide session titled “Microfinance Sector Consultations on Nationwide Finances 2025-26” the place the microfinance sector leaders name for supportive budgetary insurance policies in FY26.
The occasion convened leaders from Bangladesh’s microfinance sector to articulate collective expectations for the upcoming nationwide finances.
Held on Could 19 on the BRAC Centre, Mohakhali within the capital, the session was attended by Professor Dr. Mohammed Helal Uddin, Govt Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Microcredit Regulatory Authority (MRA), because the chief visitor.
The Company of Honor includeded asif saleh, government director of brac; Md. Ariful Haqaue Choudury, President of Asa; and Dr. Humaira Islam, Govt of Shakti Basis for deprived ladies, mentioned a press launch immediately.
The occasion was chaired by Mohammad Muslim Chowdhury, Chairman of INAFI and Sonali Financial institution PLC, and a former Finance Secretary and twelfth Comptroller and Auditor Basic of Bangladesh.
Emranul Huq Chowdhury, Vice Chairman of INAFI Bangladesh, delivered the keynote presentation outlining main coverage and monetary expectations of the sector.
“The microfinance sector performs an important position in monetary inclusion and poverty alleviation,” he mentioned including a revolving fund of at the very least Taka 100 billion is crucial for sustaining operations.
Moreover, he mentioned simplified tax insurance policies will allow to succeed in extra folks with fewer administrative burdens.
The microfinance sector referred to as for the institution of a Taka 100 billion revolving Micro Mortgage Fund to make sure sustainable financing, together with the simplification of complicated tax provisions launched within the Finance Invoice 2024.
Sector leaders urged the federal government to allocate grant funding for important social growth applications, notably in mild of declining donor assist.
In addition they emphasised the significance of institutionalizing formal pre-budget consultations between the Ministry of Finance and microfinance establishments to make sure that coverage selections replicate on-the-ground realities and sector wants.
Md. Mosharrof Hossain, Treasurer of INAFI Bangladesh, outlined key advocacy priorities and regulatory challenges confronted by MFIs.
“We’re actively lobbying for reforms to make sure that MFIs can function sustainably. This contains addressing VAT complexities, easing entry to financial institution loans, and amending the MRA Act to replicate the evolving realities of the sector,” he added.
Whereas talking because the chief visitor, Professor Dr. Mohammed Helal Uddin, Govt Vice Chairman of MRA, referred to as on the sector to higher quantify its contributions.
“The microfinance sector should current its affect in measurable phrases. This proof is crucial to make a stronger case for assist from policy-makers and growth companions,” he mentioned.
Helal advocated for larger entry to finance for underserved communities and highlighted a sensible funding technique.
Whereas talking as particular friends, Asif Saleh, Govt Director of BRAC, emphasised the significance of safeguarding the social mission of MFIs.
“As we transfer towards monetary sustainability, we should not lose sight of our social obligations,” he added.
Saleh mentioned the federal government’s assist — by means of enabling insurance policies and finances allocations — will help preserve this stability.
Md. Ariful Haqaue Choudury, President of Asa, Harassed the Urgency of Collaboration.
“Microfinance establishments have all the time complemented authorities efforts in poverty discount. A well-coordinated strategy between the sector and the federal government would be the key to delivering larger affect.”
Dr. Humaira Islam, Govt Director of Shakti Basis, referred to as for flexibility in rules to satisfy evolving wants.
“The sector wants dynamic insurance policies that replicate present realities. We urge the federal government to be open to improvements that enhance outreach and scale back financing gaps, particularly for girls and marginalized teams.”
In his concluding remarks, Mohammad Muslim Chowdhury, Chairman of INAFI Bangladesh, burdened the necessity for structural engagement with the federal government.
“To attain inclusive and sustainable financial growth, there have to be a structured and ongoing dialogue between the federal government and the microfinance sector. Budgetary insurance policies ought to replicate our joint dedication to serving probably the most weak.” he added.
The session concluded with a powerful consensus on the necessity for coordinated government-sector engagement, proactive coverage reform, and a supportive nationwide finances to unlock the total potential of microfinance as a driver of inclusive development.
