Political uncertainty centring the national elections, its effect on investment, rising food prises, sluggish exports and remittance, and a lack of corporate governance in banks are the key challenges Bangladesh will face in 2018, said a think-tank yesterday.

The Dhaka-based South Asian Network on Economic Modelling (Sanem) mentioned the challenges and reflected on the performance of Bangladesh's economy until the end of 2017 in its quarterly review.

It said the business-as-usual scenario would not help when it comes to generating productive employment, making growth inclusive, accelerating poverty alleviation rate, developing human capital, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

The government should prioritise education, health and social sector investment, speedy implementation of infrastructure projects within justified cost.