The Bangladesh Bank has taken a significant step to facilitate the import of capital goods for the industrial sector, aiming to boost investment and streamline industrial operations. Under the new guidelines, investors in the industrial sector can now import capital goods and machinery under a three-year usance facility without prior approval from the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA).
Previously, this facility was limited to the import of certain types of machinery. However, the revised directive extends the benefit to all categories of capital goods and machinery, allowing companies to leverage a three-year credit term when importing essential equipment. A senior official of Bangladesh Bank explained that the measure is intended to simplify access to long-term financing for capital goods imports, ensuring a more efficient and timely process for industrial enterprises.
The central bank issued the circular on 10 December, detailing the new regulations. According to the circular, the policy has been framed based on the decisions of BIDA’s 186th Foreign Loan and Supplier Credit Review Committee, chaired by the Governor of Bangladesh Bank.
A senior bank official further highlighted that the new regulation will enable companies to import long-term equipment necessary for operations, such as air conditioners, ventilation systems, and various industrial machinery, with greater ease. This, he noted, is expected to play a pivotal role in supporting long-term investment strategies and enhancing industrial capacity.
Industry experts have welcomed the initiative, noting that it will significantly reduce administrative hurdles while ensuring three-year usance terms for the shipping and import of capital goods. They emphasised that the policy is likely to encourage higher investment in the industrial sector and accelerate capacity expansion across manufacturing and production units.
Investors are optimistic that the new framework will enhance competitiveness and operational efficiency in Bangladesh’s industrial landscape. By providing clearer, more stable procedures for long-term investment, the policy is expected to foster transparency, reduce bureaucratic delays, and create a more conducive environment for sustainable industrial growth.
With the implementation of these guidelines, Bangladesh Bank is signalling a proactive commitment to strengthening the nation’s industrial base, supporting modernisation, and facilitating a more investment-friendly ecosystem for local and foreign investors alike.