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Bangladesh is poised to introduce a stringent new law, the Counterfeit Currency Prevention Act, 2026, aimed at eradicating currency counterfeiting and dismantling organized criminal networks. The proposed legislation mandates life imprisonment and substantial fines for individuals involved in the production, possession, smuggling, or circulation of fake currency.

The draft law, prepared by the Financial Institutions Division of the finance ministry, outlines severe penalties for offenders. Those found counterfeiting currency, stocking, buying, selling, or smuggling fake notes, or possessing the necessary equipment and chemicals, could face life imprisonment. Additionally, they face fines equivalent to twice the value of assets acquired through the crime or Tk 1 crore, whichever is greater, with an additional five years of imprisonment for non-payment.

Beyond direct counterfeiting, the law also addresses the spread of rumors related to currency, prescribing up to 10 years imprisonment and a Tk 10 lakh fine for knowingly disseminating false information. Producing objects that resemble genuine currency with deceptive intent could result in up to five years in prison and a Tk 1 lakh fine. The definition of counterfeit currency has been expanded to include bleached, tampered, and mismatched notes and coins.

To bolster enforcement, the act proposes the formation of a Counterfeit Currency Prevention Committee, led by a senior Bangladesh Bank official. A central database will be established to store information on counterfeiters and related materials, aiding law enforcement investigations. Furthermore, the law grants sub-inspectors and equivalent ranks the authority to search premises and arrest suspects without a warrant. Evidence gathered through electronic devices, such as mobile phones and the internet, will be admissible in court, strengthening the prosecution's case against counterfeit operations.