Dhaka, 27 November 2025 (BSS):
In a significant regulatory move ahead of Bangladesh’s forthcoming national elections, Bangladesh Bank has announced a temporary ban on foreign travel for officials of all non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs). The measure, issued through an official circular on Thursday, is aimed at ensuring institutional stability, operational vigilance, and uninterrupted financial oversight during a politically sensitive period.
According to the circular, the restriction applies to managing directors, chief executive officers, and all officials across every tier of NBFIs. While the directive is sweeping in scope, the central bank has indicated that exceptions may be granted, but only in cases of unavoidable and absolutely essential foreign travel. The circular, however, does not stipulate the criteria under which such exceptions may be assessed, leaving the decision to the discretion of the relevant authority within Bangladesh Bank.
The travel embargo will remain in effect until the completion of the national elections, scheduled to take place in February 2026. Regulatory insiders suggest that the decision reflects the central bank’s precautionary stance in maintaining transparency, continuity of operations, and full managerial oversight, particularly during an election cycle when financial risks and irregularities can become more pronounced.
Bangladesh Bank invoked its authority under the Banking Companies Act of 1991, although the circular stops short of detailing the specific clauses under which the restriction has been enforced. Industry analysts observe that similar pre-election directives have been issued in the past to prevent sudden absences of key financial executives, ensure compliance monitoring, and safeguard the financial sector from potential disruptions.
Officials from several NBFIs acknowledged the directive, noting that senior management teams will need to adjust ongoing international commitments, training programmes, and overseas negotiations. Despite the inconvenience, many believe the measure underscores the central bank’s determination to maintain strict regulatory discipline and sector-wide accountability during a crucial national event.
Summary of Key Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Issuing Authority | Bangladesh Bank |
| Affected Institutions | All Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs) |
| Officials Under Restriction | Managing Directors, CEOs, and all NBFI officials |
| Travel Ban Duration | Until completion of the national election in February 2026 |
| Legal Basis | Banking Companies Act 1991 |
| Exception Criteria | Unavoidable foreign travel (not explicitly defined) |
As the election approaches, stakeholders across the financial sector are expected to operate under heightened oversight, with the central bank emphasising stability, vigilance, and operational integrity during this critical period.
JD