The Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) has urged the interim government to keep the bank interest rates slightly lower in the prevailing economic situation to help grow private sector credit flow and boost private investment.

DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed made the call during a courtesy meeting with Bangladesh Bank Governor Ahsan H Mansur at the central bank headquarters in Dhaka's Motijheel today.  

Highlighting the strain on businesses, Ahmed recommended lowering bank interest rates to enhance private sector credit flow and stimulate investment.

He also mentioned that the credit guarantee scheme for cottage, micro, small, and medium enterprises requires 31 documents, creating a barrier for small entrepreneurs to access credit.

He proposed extending the loan classification deadline by 3 to 6 months to facilitate repayment adjustments amid economic challenges.

Ahmed further urged the central bank to relax strict policies on setting up overseas business offices, which, he believes, could boost exports and investments.

He also called for enhanced accountability across the financial sector, including the central bank.

The Bangladesh Bank governor stated that the central bank is focusing on inflation control and dollar stability, with current initiatives aimed at reducing inflation to 7 percent by mid-year, potentially leading to lower interest rates.

Mansur also noted that measures are being implemented to ease business operations, including allowing letters of credit without margin for essential Ramadan imports.