Export-data mismatch impact on GDP being examined: Adviser

Export data for the last fiscal year have been reconciled and will be published soon, along with impact of any calculation mismatch on the country's growth arithmetic.

Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed Monday said the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) reconciled the export data to bridge the gap between calculations by two agencies.

"We have discussed the issue. There was mismatch between the export data of EPB and the ASYCUDA data of the National Board of Revenue. I have also asked the EPB to make a projection," he said briefing newsmen after a meeting with a delegation of the EPB at his secretariat office.

He said from now on the ASYCUDA data would be the main source for export figure.

Asked about possible export target for the current fiscal year, the adviser said the figure would not be disclosed before the EPB board approves it.

Replying to query whether the export data mismatch will have any impact on gross domestic product (GDP) data, the finance adviser said he had also asked the officials to check it.

Mr Ahmed said GDP is being calculated based on production method in 19 sectors. "So, hopefully, it will have no impact on GDP. We will let you know about it later."

Asked whether the government has any plan to revise the fiscal budget at this stage, the adviser said Planning Adviser Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud would look into the matter.

"If necessary, we will amend the budget. We will stop all unnecessary spending and rationalise them," he said.

Commerce Secretary Md Selim Uddin, EPB Vice-Chairman Md Anwar Hossain and other senior officials of the EPB attended the meeting.

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