The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) will provide Tk 1 billion loan to Bangladesh Bank for the development of country’s garments sector.The central bank will allocate the money through Bank and Financial Institutions with five percent interest by launching re-funding scheme.
Later, businessmen can collect loan with 10-percent interest from the banks.
Bangladesh Bank governor secretariat general manager AFM Asaduzzaman confirmed it to banglanews.
BB governor Dr Atiur Rahman told banglanews over phone, “JICA is one of development cooperation agencies to Bangladesh. They provide loan and aid in different sectors including infrastructure. In line with the cooperation, the Japanese company will provide TK 1 billion to ensure apparel worker’s security considering the factory building risky.
SME and Special Programs Department General Manager Sukamal Singha Choudhury said, “JICA will provide the loan to the central bank and it will distribute the money through re-funding scheme. An entrepreneur will initially be allowed Tk 1 million.”
AFM Asaduzzaman said, “Bangladesh Bank would sign a deal regarding the matter with JICA soon. Besides, JICA is scheduled to be held a meeting with leaders of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) in next week.” (Banglanews24.com)
