Bangladesh has requested new financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to support its ongoing economic reform programme, the Washington-based lender said in a statement on Wednesday.
The disclosure was made by IMF Mission Chief for Bangladesh Ivo Krznar, who said discussions are underway between the IMF and the Bangladeshi authorities on the country's economic reform agenda and policy priorities in light of the new financing request.
Krznar noted that the IMF-supported programme approved in January 2023-including the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), Extended Fund Facility (EFF), and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF)-has served as an important policy anchor for Bangladesh.
However, he said the country's macroeconomic and political landscape has changed significantly since then, with weaknesses in the banking sector and shortfalls in revenue mobilisation emerging as key challenges that require urgent attention.
According to the IMF, discussions are ongoing on a possible new programme that would reflect current economic realities and the priorities of the new government. Any new financing arrangement will depend on Bangladesh's balance-of-payments needs, strong policy commitments, and the credibility of its reform agenda. Final approval will be subject to endorsement by the IMF Executive Board.
The Fund also announced plans for a staff visit to Bangladesh to review recent economic developments, discuss policy priorities, and assess the country's medium-term economic challenges. Detailed negotiations on the size and specific terms of any potential new programme are expected to take place during a subsequent mission.
Reaffirming its commitment to Bangladesh, the IMF said it remains dedicated to working as a partner in promoting sustainable macroeconomic stability, strengthening the financial sector, and fostering inclusive economic growth.
