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Bangladesh's Finance Minister, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, revealed that defaulted loans across nine state-owned banks amounted to Tk 1,88,701.75 crore as of May 31. This figure is based on data submitted to the Credit Information Bureau (CIB) by banks including Agrani Bank, Janata Bank, and Sonali Bank.

Chowdhury emphasized that restoring discipline within the banking sector is crucial and directly linked to reducing the high rate of defaulted loans. He assured that the government's legal actions against individuals accused of plundering public funds and engaging in money laundering abroad would proceed uncompromisingly.

"The government remains firm in its tough stance against those who plundered the country's wealth and fled abroad. Neither the BNP nor this government will compromise with them. This drive will continue," the minister stated in parliament. He noted that numerous cases have been filed, investigations are ongoing, and the process of confiscating the assets of the accused has commenced.

In a separate response, Chowdhury detailed measures aimed at facilitating loan access for young entrepreneurs. Bangladesh Bank has expanded its refinancing scheme for cottage, micro, and small enterprises from Tk 100 crore to Tk 500 crore. Under this scheme, new entrepreneurs can secure loans up to Tk 10 lakh without collateral at a maximum interest rate of 7 percent, with collateralized loans available up to Tk 35 lakh.

Additionally, the minister informed parliament that customs houses under the National Board of Revenue have reported outstanding duties and taxes on imported goods totaling Tk 25,504.3 crore over the past five years. Chattogram Customs House, for instance, collected Tk 590 crore of the Tk 3,912 crore owed to the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation up to June.

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The government remains firm in its tough stance against those who plundered the country's wealth and fled abroad. Neither the BNP nor this government will compromise with them. This drive will continue.