Business leaders have called for a gradual reduction in bank lending rates to single digits, citing mounting economic pressures and the need to boost investment and competitiveness.
The demand was made during a meeting between a delegation from the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry and Bangladesh Bank Governor Md Mostakur Rahman at the central bank’s headquarters on Monday.
Led by FBCCI Administrator Md Abdur Rahim Khan, the business delegation also urged the central bank to expand the Export Development Fund (EDF) and make it accessible to all export-oriented sectors.
Highlighting ongoing domestic and global challenges, FBCCI leaders emphasized the need for coordinated policy measures to control inflation, stabilize exchange rates, and improve discipline in the banking sector. They noted that while interest rates play a role in curbing inflation, a broader alignment of fiscal and monetary policies is essential.
The delegation also stressed maintaining foreign currency supply, ensuring stable dollar exchange rates, and increasing credit flow to the private sector. Proposals included policy support for struggling industries, reduction of non-performing loans, and easier financing for overseas workers to boost remittance inflows.
In addition, business leaders called for enhanced support for small and medium enterprises, including the formation of a dedicated committee to address banking-related challenges faced by the sector.
FBCCI reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Bangladesh Bank to strengthen the country’s trade and economic growth.
