Banks asked to help accelerate import of essential goods 

The Bangladesh Bank has asked banks to facilitate import of essential commodities, food items,and electronic goods to keep the supply chain running amid shutdown.

The authorised dealer banks, engaged in foreign exchange transactions, would come forward to release documents for the speedy release of imported goods while following rules, said a central bank notice issued on Sunday.

Also, commercial banks have been asked to provide necessary banking services to the importers during this crisis period.

On April 22, the Ministry of Commerce instructed all the authorities to step up to help continue production, transport and supplyof electronics goods, essential commodities and food items including rice, pulses, oil, onion, salt, sugar, ginger, garlic, water, baby food; and all types of medical supplies such as masks and hand sanitisers.