The government is preparing to launch a major initiative aimed at reviving closed industrial units across the country. According to Bangladesh Bank sources, a fund worth around Tk 15,000 to 20,000 crore is being processed to support the reopening of idle factories.If everything goes as planned, the fund may be officially announced later this week by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.Under the proposed scheme, factories that were shut down due to unavoidable circumstances and are willing to repay their loans will be eligible to receive low-interest working capital loans. In some cases, term loans may also be provided. The interest rate is expected to be set at around 13%, with a possible 5% government subsidy.A senior Bangladesh Bank official said the initiative aims to restore viable but closed industries, protect jobs, and strengthen the national economy. The announcement was reportedly referenced by the Prime Minister during a May Day rally organized by the Nationalist Workers’ Party, where he emphasized reopening factories to ensure workers’ rights and economic recovery.Before the official launch, Bangladesh Bank has formed a 19-member committee led by Deputy Governor Md. Kabir Ahmed to finalize policy guidelines. The committee includes senior officials from various levels of the central bank and is tasked with preparing a detailed framework for fund disbursement and additional support measures.Banks have already been instructed to submit updated data on closed factories, particularly those with loans exceeding Tk 100 crore. Separate lists have been requested for fully and partially closed industrial units.According to officials, priority will be given to factories with strong market potential, especially those affected during recent industrial disruptions. However, units involved in major financial crimes such as fraud or money laundering will not be eligible for support.The Bangladesh Bank has also received several policy recommendations, including easing down payment conditions for loan regularization, providing immediate financial support upon reopening, and improving banking facilities for import-export activities. Reduced margin requirements for opening Letters of Credit (LCs) are also under consideration, depending on the borrower’s past financial behavior.
সোমবার, ০৪ মে ২০২৬
