BB eases LC margin for key imports for Ramadan

Bangladesh Bank (BB) has instructed all scheduled banks to maintain cash margins at the minimum possible level for opening letters of credit (LCs) to import essential consumer goods ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.

The Banking Regulation and Policy Department-1 of Bangladesh Bank on Sunday issued a circular letter in this regard, aiming to facilitate the import of essential commodities and ensure their adequate supply at affordable prices during Ramadan.

According to the circular, banks have been advised to maintain cash margins at the minimum possible level, considering the banker-customer relationship, while opening LCs for importing essential commodities, including rice, wheat, onions, pulses, edible oil (soybean and palm oil), sugar, chickpeas, peas, lentils and dates.

The central bank also advised banks to give priority to opening import LCs for other essential commodities to ensure an uninterrupted supply in the domestic market.

The circular referred to previous instructions issued on September 5, 2024 and November 11, 2025 regarding LC facilities and cash margin requirements for importing essential consumer goods.

Bangladesh Bank said the latest directive was issued to facilitate imports, stabilise the market and ensure the availability of essential commodities at reasonable prices ahead of Ramadan.