Govt to ask banks for keeping dollar for essentials import: Tipu Munshi

The government will request the banks to keep a portion of dollars reserved to facilitate the import of essential commodities before Ramadan, the fasting month when demand for certain items increases.

Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi shared the decision today at a press conference after a meeting with businessmen regarding the stock and supply situation of seven basic commodities, including edible oil and sugar, at the commerce ministry.

If necessary, the commerce ministry will send notes to the banks so that businessmen can import goods without opening letters of credit, said Senior Commerce Secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh while replying to the queries of journalists.

At the meeting, Salman F Rahman, adviser on private industry and investment to the prime minister, was also present.