Govt to offer 1.5% commission for attracting foreign investment

Bangladesh will offer a 1.5% commission on foreign investments brought into the country by expatriate Bangladeshis or foreign nationals as part of efforts to boost foreign direct investment (FDI), Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said on Wednesday.

Speaking during a question-and-answer session in parliament, Rahman said the government was pursuing measures to encourage both foreign and domestic investment through deregulation and business-friendly policies.

He said individuals who facilitate foreign investment in Bangladesh would receive a commission equivalent to 1.5% of the total investment amount, aiming to encourage overseas Bangladeshis and international networks to attract investors to the country.

The prime minister also announced that the Bangladesh Bank had established a Tk 60 billion ($490 million) fund to support credible businesses facing financial difficulties. Eligible enterprises will be able to access loans from the fund at a 9% interest rate.

On reducing bank lending rates to stimulate investment, Rahman said the government was reviewing the issue and would take a decision if lower borrowing costs were deemed effective in promoting investment growth.

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He added that legal measures were being considered to address existing barriers related to profit repatriation for foreign investors, as part of broader efforts to improve the country's investment climate.