Essential food imports get 90-day credit window

Bangladesh Bank today permitted the commercial import of several essential commodities on deferred payment terms, in a move aimed at stabilising the domestic market and ensuring an adequate supply of key food items during the month of Ramadan.

According to a circular issued today, businesses are now allowed to import rice, wheat, onion, pulses, edible oil, sugar, chickpeas, peas, spices, and dates under supplier's or buyer's credit arrangements with a usance period of up to 90 days.

The central bank stated that this facility will remain valid until March 31, 2026, providing flexibility to importers in managing their payment obligations.

Earlier, Bangladesh Bank also allowed flexibility in determining LC margins for these same essential commodities based on banker-customer relationships.