Bangladesh Bank has introduced a Tk 20,000 crore pre-financing scheme aimed at reopening closed industrial and service establishments. The central bank issued a circular on Thursday outlining that defaulters, money launderers, and entities involved in fraud or misuse of previous loans will not be eligible for this facility. The scheme, valid for three years, will be operated using surplus liquidity from scheduled banks, which must sign separate agreements with Bangladesh Bank to participate.

According to the circular, the initiative seeks to boost industrial production, employment, exports, and overall economic activity. Priority will be given to export-oriented and high-potential enterprises, as well as entrepreneurs reopening closed factories through acquisition or lease. Each borrower may receive up to Tk 200 crore for a maximum term of one year, with interest rates capped at 7 percent. The funds must be used for operational expenses such as wages, utilities, and raw materials, not for repaying existing loans.

Banks will bear all credit risks and must ensure proper loan utilization through regular reporting and inspections. Misuse of funds will trigger penalties, including recovery from the bank’s account and possible legal action against involved parties.