ABSTRACT
The government's performance gives the impression that its leaders have never really figured out what they want from the policy, other than a pious wish for a "strong private sector" or a "mixed economy." The government lost money on the enterprises when they were in the public sector. Privatization may be controversial, but no serious observer of the Bangladesh economic scene can believe that the lumbering, lackluster, inefficient public sector can provide the motivating force for dynamic economic growth. The public sector carries a special importance and responsibility in a subsistence economy. In Bangladesh, while it may be necessary to keep substantial parts of basic industries in the public sector for political and social purposes, the government should be constantly alert for ways to encourage, assist, and cooperate with the private sector in new growth areas. Special attention must be accorded to ensure forceful and coordinated implementation of privatization and private sector development programs.
