Bangladesh Bank (BB) has directed commercial banks to extend special term loan facilities to export-oriented industries to ensure the timely payment of workers’ wages for February 2026, according to a circular issued on Tuesday.
The initiative comes amid liquidity pressures and production challenges facing the country’s export sector due to global economic uncertainties and delayed orders.
The central bank said the move is aimed at sustaining production activity while safeguarding workers’ income stability.
Under the new directive, banks are authorised to provide term loans to active export-focused factories beyond their existing working capital limits.
However, the loan amount must not exceed the average wage and allowance payments of the previous three months for the respective factory.
The loans will be offered at prevailing market-based interest rates, without imposing any additional fees, commissions or profit charges. Borrowers must repay the amount in equal monthly or quarterly instalments within one year, including a three-month grace period.
The BB defined export-oriented industries as enterprises that export at least 80 per cent of their total production. To qualify as “active,” factories must have consistently paid wages between November 2025 and January 2026. Eligibility must be certified by recognised trade bodies such as BGMEA or BKMEA.
To ensure transparency and prevent misuse, the circular requires that approved loan amounts be transferred directly to workers’ bank accounts or Mobile Financial Service accounts. Cash payments through factory management will not be permitted under the scheme.
Officials said the measure is intended to protect employment stability while supporting export competitiveness.
