The main cash crop is jute. Bangladesh is the world's leading supplier and it accounts for 25 per cent of the country's exports. Although the value of this commodity has been increasing, long-term prospects are poor because of synthetic competitors. The trade deficit is lessening, the International Monetary Fund's fiscal and monetary targets have been met and tax revenues are better than forecast. The government has embarked upon privatization programmes and is encouraging foreign investment although potential investors are discouraged by the political deadlock.
Plans exist to emphasise the necessity of birth control, vital if poverty is to lessen.