United News of Bangladesh

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Saturday stated that a sustainable political and social atmosphere in Bangladesh is the primary requirement for both foreign and domestic investors. Shafiqur made the remarks at the third session of the Bangladesh Economic Summit 2025, organised by Bangla Daily Bonik Barta, at a hotel in Dhaka. He presided over the session titled "Fairness in the Economy." The editor of Bonik Barta Dewan Hanif Muhammad moderated the session. He shared that his discussions with foreign and local entrepreneurs reveal that despite incentives like cheaper labour, tax exemption facilities, and profit assurance, investors remain hesitant due to a lack of trust regarding the guarantee of security. The Jamaat Ameer said that many countries are ready to invest once a peaceful political and social environment is restored, but entrepreneurs are simultaneously seeking corruption-free government services, arguing that corruption is significantly keeping the country backward for investment. Criticizing the current tax system, Dr. Shafiqur pointed out that both the rich and the poor contribute to the economy, stating, "Even a beggar pays tax when he buys something from a shop. A newborn baby also pays tax when someone purchases a product for the child." He further claimed that the non-citizen-friendly tax system often leads to harassment by tax officials. Rahman asserted that the economy cannot move forward unless fairness and equal opportunity are ensured for all, which requires skilled and honest individuals in every service sector. Dr. Shafiqur called for a reform of the education system, shifting it from being "certificate based to work and skilled based." He also highlighted that the burden of repaying foreign loans is shared equally by all citizens, from babies to the elderly, which underscores the need for an economic system rooted in fairness. The inequality, corruption, and lack of proper planning, he noted, are preventing Bangladesh's human resources from becoming a true national asset. He specifically mentioned the issue of brain drain, where talented Bangladeshis settle abroad because they feel their skills are not valued in their own country. The Jamaat ameer identified three priority areas for national progress: a reformed education system to produce skilled manpower, strong action against corruption at all levels, and justice for all. He concluded that ensuring these three areas will stabilize society and allow the country to move forward, emphasizing that real change demands a firm commitment. Md. Shafiullah, a retired senior secretary and Jamaat finance wing leader, also presented the organization’s financial sector work plans should they be able to form the next government through the national election.  

Industrial stagnation and shrinking private investment have caused 14 lakh people to lose jobs, leaving them “wandering on the streets without employment,” Ha-Meem Group Managing Director and former FBCCI president A.K. Azad said on Saturday. Speaking at the opening session of the Bangladesh Economic Conference 2025 at Hotel Sonargaon in the capital, he said the country is failing to create new jobs despite the growing labour force. The event was organised by Bonik Barta. “Every year, 30 lakh people enter the job market. Of them, 1.2 lakh are recruited in government and semi-government agencies, 8 lakh go abroad, and 10 lakh get jobs in the private sector. The rest remain unemployed. But new employment is not being generated as expected, which is pushing unemployment further up,” he added. Referring to Bangladesh Bank’s bulletin published on November 23, Azad said the country’s GDP growth was 4.22 per cent last year, which is expected to decline to 3.97 per cent this year. He also pointed to rising classified loans, noting that although the central bank reports the figure at 24 per cent, “the actual number is much higher.” “To pay dividends to shareholders, many banks engage in window dressing. If loans are classified, the money has to be provisioned, which reduces their profits. If we consider the real figure to be around 35 per cent, we must find out where the money went and who took it. We expect the next government to investigate and bring those responsible under the law,” he said. Azad criticised the strict contractionary monetary policy implemented by the central bank governor, saying higher interest rates have severely squeezed the private sector. “We received only 6 percent credit (credit growth). Industrialization is in a very bad state. Capital machinery imports fell last year, and this year they declined a further 26 per cent,” he added. The former independent MP said the government is struggling to cover expenses from revenue and has been borrowing heavily from banks to pay salaries. “Government borrowings from banks have reached 27 percent,” he noted. Azad also expressed deep concern over the growing energy crisis. He said Bangladesh has 7.80 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves, while annual demand is 3,800 million cubic feet. “Thirty percent of this demand is met through imports and 70 percent from reserves. As a result, reserve levels are declining by 9 percent each year.”  “At this rate, gas reserves may run out within 6–7 years, leaving us entirely import-dependent. Investors are worried about this scenario,” he said. BSSMA President and GPH Group Chairman Mohammad Jahangir Alam, Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies Director General Prof. A.K. Enamul Haque, and ABB Chairman and City Bank Managing Director Mashrur Arefin also spoke at the session. Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur chaired the inaugural session, while Bonik Barta Editor and Publisher Dewan Hanif Mahmud moderated the discussion.

The President of the Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI), Anwar-ul-Alam Chowdhury Parvez, on Thursday strongly contested the narrative that primarily blames business owners for the staggering rise in Non-Performing Loans (NPLs), arguing that the entire responsibility should not be placed on them. Speaking at the Policy Research Institute (PRI)’s 'Monthly Macroeconomic Insights' seminar, Parvez stated, "The business environment is currently not entrepreneur-friendly. To pay off previous debts, entrepreneurs are being forced to take out new loans, which further increases the risk of default." He specifically pointed to a recent policy change in loan classification as a major factor contributing to the NPL spike. "Previously, the classification period for a loan was six months. Now, it has been reduced to three months. Consequently, any loan not repaid within three months is now immediately classified as non-performing," he said. The BCI President’s remarks came as the keynote paper, presented by PRI Chief Economist Dr. Ashikur Rahman, revealed the alarming scale of the financial crisis. Dr. Rahman reported that the country’s current volume of non-performing loans stands at Tk 6.44 lakh crore, which is approximately 36 percent of the total outstanding loans. Furthermore, he warned that the total volume of distressed assets in the banking sector could reach Tk 9.50 lakh crore, underscoring significant weaknesses in asset recovery mechanisms. Dr. Rahman cautioned that a high NPL volume could lead to a future "credit crunch" and negatively impact overall investment. To stem the rising tide of defaults, business leader Parvez urged the government to improve the country's business climate by focusing on key structural issues. He called for-improving the law-and-order situation, resolving the persistent energy crisis, stopping the 'mob culture and ensuring consistent policy support for entrepreneurs. He warned that "NPLs will increase further" if these fundamental issues are not solve immediately. The seminar, which brought together business leaders and economists, was chaired by PRI Chairman Dr. Zaidi Sattar. Dr. Zaidi Sattar, Chairman of PRI, chaired the event. In his remarks, Dr. Sattar highlighted that, “The rising REER index since May should be concerning to the exporter community as it indicates erosion of competitiveness. Bangladesh Bank can no longer purchase dollars from the market to depreciate the taka; therefore, loosening import restrictions is the only viable option. This would also benefit exporters. More vibrant imports would support better exchange-rate management under the current flexible regime and contribute to a more dynamic export environment.” The discussion featured insights from a distinguished panel comprising Dr. Nasiruddin Ahmed Former Chairman, National Board of Revenue (NBR), Dr. AKM Atiqur Rahman, Professor, North South University, Dr. Wasel Bin Shadat, Research Director, BUILD, and Amrita Makin Islam, DMD, Picard Bangladesh Limited, Director, LFMEAB. Dr. Wasel mentioned, “Compliant taxpayers are being penalized, which goes against the principle of tax justice. This is one of the main reasons why 85 percent of the economy remains informal.” Moreover, election manifestos across political parties fail to address the economic situation with sufficient seriousness, he said. Dr. Nasiruddin Ahmed argued that tax policy should be formulated by politicians and the business community rather than bureaucrats, some of whom he believes contribute to the problem. He also highlighted employment and the lack of quality, job-oriented education as major national concerns that the next government must address. Atiqur Rahman noted that without the July mass uprising, the true scale of rising NPLs would have remained hidden, raising doubts about the economy’s ability to sustain itself. He emphasized the urgent need for export diversification beyond RMG, warning that potential Trump-era tariffs and a Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER) above 6 percent are already weakening competitiveness.

Bangladesh Bank has ordered a reduction in the salaries of employees from the five banks that have been merged to form the new 'Sammilito Islami Bank' (Combined Islamic Bank). Sammilito Islami Bank’s Assistant Spokesperson Shahriar Siddiqui on Thursday said, "The decision to cut the salaries of employees of the five banks included in the new Sammilito Islami Bank was taken while allocating Tk350 crore in liquidity support." He explained that the salaries of the banks' employees depend on the depositors' funds, citing an example, "Last year, First Security's income was negative. Yet, they paid salaries amounting to Tk650 crore from depositors' funds. Employees of FSIB and SIBL are currently able to withdraw only a portion of their salaries." The Governor has instructed the swift implementation of this measure due to the banks' severe liquidity crisis and financial irregularities. The spokesperson, however, clarified that this decision is part of the restructuring process and is temporary. Once the situation normalises, the officials will receive market-based salaries, he added. Earlier, on November 5, Bangladesh Bank declared five financially troubled Shariah-based banks as ineffective and appointed administrators. The banks are: Exim Bank, Social Islami Bank, First Security Islami Bank, Union Bank and Global Islami Bank. Later, on November 9, the central bank's board, chaired by Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur, granted a preliminary license during a special online meeting to the new Shariah-based state-owned bank, 'Sammilito Islami Bank,' to operate after merging the five weak banks.

After opening on a positive note, the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) closed Tuesday’s session in the red, while the Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) managed to maintain its upward momentum. At the DSE, the key index DSEX dropped by 6 points at the end of the day, though the other two indices advanced — the DSES gained 2 points and the DS30 rose by 6 points. Most issues saw price declines, with 227 companies losing value against 129 gainers, while 30 issues remained unchanged. The turnover inched up slightly to Tk 636 crore, compared to Tk 635 crore the previous day. In the block market, shares worth Tk 16 crore were traded across 25 companies, with Simtex Industries PLC alone offloading shares worth Tk 5 crore. Simtex Industries PLC topped the DSE gainers’ list with a 10% price rise, while People’s Leasing and Financial Services Ltd hit the bottom, falling 9%. Meanwhile, the CSE closed higher, with its all-share price index CASPI advancing by 114 points. DSE rebounds; index tops 5,000 after 20-day dip The port-city bourse saw 125 issues gain, 53 decline, and 15 remain unchanged. The turnover at the CSE stood at Tk 21 crore, up from Tk 19 crore in the previous session. New Line Clothings Ltd led the CSE gainers with a 10% jump, while United Power Generation & Distribution Company Ltd ended as the biggest loser, slipping nearly 10%.

Bangladesh Bank (BB) has further expanded the scope of policy support available to classified loan borrowers. All loans classified as adverse (defaulted) on upcoming November 30 will now be eligible for rescheduling under a special facility. This new concession aims to help restructure the business and financial framework of distressed institutions. The central bank's Banking Regulations and Policy Department (BRPD) issued a circular in this regard on Monday, November 24. Extended Tenure and Grace Period: The new directive states that classified loans as of November 30, 2025, can be rescheduled for a maximum term of ten (10) years, with the provision to include a maximum two-year grace period. This means that borrowers with loans classified within the specified timeframe will be eligible for the new policy's rescheduling benefits. Relaxation for Unclassified and Restructuring Loans: Special Restructuring: Concessions have also been extended for unclassified term loans. These loans, including those previously rescheduled, can now be restructured by setting an additional maximum maturity period of two (02) years beyond the term described in the BRPD Circular No. 16/2022. Special Exit Facility Changes New flexibility has been introduced for the special exit facility as well: Extended Period: Alongside taking the down payment as per previous instructions (BRPD Circular No.-13/2024), the duration of the exit facility can be extended by an additional one (01) year. Repayment Obligation: While the rule for monthly or quarterly installment payments remains, the total annual repayment must not be less than 20% of the total loan amount. Classification: During this period, the loans must be displayed as 'Exit (SMA)' (Special Mention Account), and the required General Provision must be maintained. Provisions: Specific Provision maintained previously cannot be transferred to the bank's income account without actual realization, although a part of it can be transferred for maintaining General Provision. Restrictions on New Loans: No new loan facilities can be granted to the institution until the entire loan is fully paid off. Failure to Pay: If the borrower fails to pay three monthly or one quarterly installment, the loan must be classified in the usual manner.

Bangladesh's export sector has officially opened its doors to major global online marketplaces for selling their products with simplified documentation and revenue collection. In a significant move, Bangladesh Bank has granted permission for local exporters to sell goods directly overseas through platforms like Amazon and eBay, creating a vast new opportunity for the country's exporters. The central bank's Foreign Exchange Policy Department issued a circular to this effect on Monday (November 24). The central bank stated that this new policy initiative is designed to boost Bangladesh's participation in the global online marketplace. To make cross-border e-commerce more streamlined and effective, the bank has authorized exports under a Business-to-Business-to-Consumer (B2B2C) framework. According to the circular, Authorized Dealer (AD) banks can now process export transactions where the foreign consignee acts not as the final buyer, but as an intermediary platform or marketplace. This means Bangladeshi goods can now be exported through major international platforms, including Amazon, eBay, Alibaba, Etsy, or any international subsidiary or third-party warehouse. The new structure also simplifies the necessary documentation and revenue collection, such as: Registration Proof: Exporters engaging in this activity must submit proof of their registration with the relevant global platform or warehouse to their AD bank. Pricing: Since the B2B2C model typically lacks a conventional sales contract, the fair value of the exported goods can be declared based on a Proforma Invoice. Shipping Documents: If the consignee is solely a service provider, the bank may also accept shipping documents prepared in their name. The policy also eases rules for realizing export income. Funds earned from these exports are now acceptable not only through standard banking channels but also via international payment service operators. Recognizing that payments for multiple shipments may arrive collectively in platform-based exports, banks are advised to reconcile the export income using a 'First-In, First-Out' (FIFO) principle. Sector Sees Growth Potential: Industry experts believe the Bangladesh Bank's decision will significantly revitalize cross-border e-commerce. "This policy will unlock new markets for small and medium-sized exporters and strengthen Bangladesh's position in the global online marketplace," said Mohammad Hatem, President of BKMEA. The new framework is expected to play a crucial role in diversifying exports and increasing the volume of Bangladeshi products sold through international digital retail channels, he said.

The board of directors of Islami Bank Bangladesh on Monday underscored the importance of ensuring uninterrupted customer services and accelerating the collection of outstanding loans. The board, in its meeting at Islami Bank Tower, also emphasised the opening of Letters of Credit (LCs) for essential goods in line with central bank guidelines ahead of Ramadan, according to a press release. Professor Dr. M. Zubaidur Rahman, chairman of the bank, presided over the meeting. Other participants included Mohammad Khurshid Wahab, chairman of the executive committee; Md. Abdus Salam, FCA, FCS, chairman of the audit committee; Professor Dr. M. Masud Rahman, chairman of the risk management committee; Md. Abdul Jalil, independent director; Md. Omar Faruk Khan, managing director; Professor Dr. Mohammad Abdus Samad, member secretary of the shari’ah supervisory council; and Md. Habibur Rahman, company secretary.

Bangladesh Bank has set a target to establish a fully interoperable digital transaction system by July 2027, linking banks, Mobile Financial Services (MFS), insurance firms and other financial institutions, said Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur. The Governor made the announcement at a programme titled ‘Instant Payment in Bangladesh: Unveiling Inclusion Opportunities’ held at a hotel in Dhaka on Monday. Addressing the current state of digital payments, the governor admitted that Bangladesh Bank's existing interoperable payment system, launched on November 1, has not been successful so far. "Although the interoperable system has been launched, it has not been successful because many institutions are not conducting transactions through it," said Dr Mansur. To overcome this hurdle and accelerate the shift toward a cashless economy, the central bank has signed an agreement with the ‘Gates Foundation’s Mojaloop’ to establish a new Instant Payment Platform. The agreement was virtually signed for security reasons. Introducing IIPS The new Mojaloop-based platform will be named the Inclusive Instant Payment System (IIPS). Governor Mansur highlighted the key feature of the new system: it will eliminate the need for cash-out transactions, facilitating seamless digital transfers across the entire financial ecosystem. The Governor emphasised the mandatory nature and benefits of this digital transformation, saying, “We must transform our entire transaction ecosystem into a cashless one. Banks, MFS operators, agent banking and financial institutions everyone must be brought under a single channel. The plan is to launch it by July 2027.” He pointed out that this shift to the IIPS is vital for macroeconomic stability. “In the future, there will be no alternative but to move towards this system. It will increase transparency, reduce corruption, and boost revenue collection.”

The government has issued the ‘Deposit Protection Ordinance, 2025’ to enhance the protection of depositors and increase public confidence in the country's banking sector. Considering the importance of financial sector stability during the dissolution of parliament, the president promulgated the ordinance using the power vested under Article 93(1) of the constitution. This ordinance repeals the existing ‘Deposit Insurance Act, 2000,’ and introduces a modern framework. The information was revealed through a circular published on Sunday (November 23) by the Deposit Insurance Department of the Bangladesh Bank. The primary objective of the new law is to ensure the protected return of deposits placed with both Bank Companies and Finance Companies. New Department: A separate Deposit Protection Department will be established under the Bangladesh Bank to oversee the protection programme. This department will be responsible for collecting regular premiums, fund management, inspecting member institutions, settling claims, and conducting awareness programs. Fund Structure: The ordinance mandates the formation of two separate Deposit Protection Funds for bank and finance companies. These funds will be managed using premiums collected from member institutions, fines, investment income, and other approved sources. Governing Body: The administration of the funds will be overseen by the Bangladesh Bank's Board of Directors, which will act as the 'Trustee Board'. Membership: Newly licensed bank and finance companies must submit an initial premium at a prescribed rate. All existing bank companies will automatically be considered member institutions under this law, while finance companies will be included from July 1, 2028. The law also includes provisions for the collection of risk-based premiums on a quarterly basis. Coverage and Claim Settlement The ordinance explicitly excludes certain classes of deposits from protection, including those belonging to the government, foreign entities, and international organizations. Conversely, deposits made by general individuals or institutions will be considered 'protectable' and will be secured up to a defined limit. In the event of a bank or finance company's liquidation or resolution, the Deposit Protection Department will directly pay the secured deposits. If necessary, the protection process can also be managed by transferring assets and liabilities to a bridge bank or a third party through the resolution authority. The Bangladesh Bank has also been empowered under this law to sign Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with domestic and foreign regulators, exchange information, receive technical assistance, and conduct deposit protection activities in line with international standards. Experts believe the implementation of this new law will increase the financial sector's capacity to manage risk and combat crises, providing depositors with greater protection. END/UNB/AI/ssk