Written by The Banking Post
Bangladesh Bank has permitted importers to bring in a list of essential commodities under a 90-day deferred payment facility, aiming to keep prices stable and ensure sufficient supply ahead of Ramadan.
In a circular issued on Tuesday, the central bank said importers can now open letters of credit (LCs) for items such as rice, wheat, onion, pulse, edible oil, sugar, chickpea, pea, spices, and dates under supplier’s or buyer’s credit with a usance period of up to 90 days.
The facility will remain effective until 31 March 2026, giving importers greater flexibility in managing payments amid ongoing foreign exchange pressures.
Central bank officials said the decision is part of efforts to prevent market volatility and avoid sudden price hikes during Ramadan, when demand for these staples typically spikes.
Earlier, Bangladesh Bank had also allowed banks to set LC margins flexibly for the same essential goods based on the banker–customer relationship, further easing import procedures for traders.
