Selim Raihan

Dr Selim Raihan is professor, Department of Economics, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh, and executive director, South Asian Network on Economic Modeling (Sanem). Email: [email protected]

How do we avoid a debt trap?

The debt bubble is ominous, given Bangladesh’s narrow export base and heavy reliance on remittance inflows.

2h ago

FY2026 budget: A missed opportunity for structural reform

The proposed budget for 2025-26 fiscal year is at an opportune moment in Bangladesh's economic and political economy.

3w ago

The shadow of a 5% tax: Bangladesh's remittance dilemma

Such a tax would directly eat into the amount that families receive back home, discouraging many from sending remittances via official banking channels

1m ago

Strained ties: non-tariff barriers and the future of Bangladesh-India trade relations

The non-tariff barriers hurt Bangladesh-India trade, increasing costs and damaging bilateral trust

1m ago

Beyond the split: real tax reform needed to unlock Bangladesh's development

The separation of policy and operational functions is a good step. It reflects international best practices

1m ago

Post-LDC strategies for empowering our private sector

The development of private sector capabilities is a prerequisite for securing sustainable economic growth.

1m ago

The bigger picture: leveraging IMF engagement for lasting economic reform

It is worth looking beyond the immediate economic cost of the IMF loan

1m ago

BIMSTEC must adapt to global shifts and future challenges

One major challenge is the escalation of uncertainty, a notable trend in the global trade regime.

2m ago
February 19, 2025
February 19, 2025

Trump’s ‘reciprocal tariffs’ and the impending risk for Bangladesh

The global trade environment is becoming increasingly uncertain, and Bangladesh cannot afford to be complacent.

February 11, 2025
February 11, 2025

In defence of secularism in Bangladesh

Reform proposes "pluralism" over "secularism," but without a framework, it's unworkable.

February 2, 2025
February 2, 2025

Why Bangladesh struggles to attract FDI

Reversing the unsatisfactory FDI trend requires bold, forward-thinking policies and decisive action.

January 12, 2025
January 12, 2025

VAT, tax hikes: Short-sighted state policies to hurt people

The recent decisions of the interim government—tax hikes and the suspension of the TCB truck sale programme—clearly reflect the short-sightedness and inconsistency in state policies.

January 10, 2025
January 10, 2025

VAT, tax hikes: Short-sighted state policies to hurt people

The current high level of inflation has already placed significant financial pressure on the common people, and increasing taxes in this context will create even more strain

January 2, 2025
January 2, 2025

What should be Bangladesh's strategic priorities in 2025?

The need for objectively assessing the country’s current economic realities cannot be overstated.

December 14, 2024
December 14, 2024

Bangladesh-India relations must be based on justice and equal dignity

Exploring the complexities of Bangladesh-India relations, cooperation, and challenges.

December 3, 2024
December 3, 2024

An anatomy of the current economic situation in Bangladesh

Bangladesh's economy faces instability, inflation, and political unrest hindering growth.

November 29, 2024
November 29, 2024

Takeaways from COP29

The climate clock is ticking faster than ever for countries like Bangladesh.

November 6, 2024
November 6, 2024

Crony capitalism stifled investment and growth in Bangladesh

Crony capitalism is deeply ingrained and has gotten in the way of a truly dynamic and inclusive economy in Bangladesh.