PRESS
RELEASE

The National Committee on “Repatriation of Sale Proceeds in Private and Public Limited Companies” has finalized a comprehensive set of reform recommendations aimed at simplifying, accelerating, and modernizing Bangladesh’s repatriation framework. The Committee - comprising representatives from Bangladesh Bank (BB), Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), UNDP & private sector representatives – conducted multiple rounds of technical discussions followed by consultations with valuation experts, Merchant Banks, Private Commercial Banks, and Tax Lawyers. These extensive deliberations have culminated in the submission of the final recommendations.

On 18 November 2025 Mr. Nahian Rahman Rochi, Executive Member of BIDA & the head of the national committee presented the recommendations to Bangladesh Bank Governor, Executive Chairman of BIDA and other senior officials of Bangladesh Bank. The national committee formed under the instruction of the Governor of Bangladesh Bank and Executive Chairman of BIDA on 29 September 2025 was tasked to review existing challenges faced by investors in repatriating sale proceeds and propose a modern, streamlined set of reforms.

Key recommendations:

-          Significant increase in repatriation approval thresholds, empowering commercial banks to process a larger share of cases without requiring prior approval from Bangladesh Bank.

-          Introduction of time-bound Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for both commercial banks and the central bank to ensure faster processing and full visibility of end-to-end timelines for investors.

-          Updating Bangladesh Bank’s existing guidelines to incorporate contemporary, globally aligned valuation parameters, while reducing documentation requirements, especially for long-standing companies.

-          Formation of a “Repatriation Review Committee” with a clear mandate to resolve disputed or complex cases and deliver final decisions within 30 days.

-          Development of a separate guideline and valuation framework for high-growth companies and startups, acknowledging their distinct valuation models. Target completion: Q1’2026.

-          Long-term establishment of a national valuation certification authority to license and certify valuation companies.

-          The Committee also recommended enhanced capacity building for AD banks and Bangladesh Bank officials through specialized training and additional staff resources.

Commenting on the development, the Governor of Bangladesh Bank Ahsan H. Mansur stated, “These reform recommendations reflect our strong commitment to creating a more efficient, modern and investor-friendly financial ecosystem. By reducing delays and strengthening transparency, we are ensuring that Bangladesh remains a reliable and attractive destination for global investors.”

BIDA Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury said, “This is a timely and progressive step forward for Bangladesh’s investment climate. The new framework will provide clarity, speed and predictability for foreign investors, supporting our broader goal of positioning Bangladesh as a competitive and trusted investment hub.” He also expressed his gratitude to all members of the National Committee, saying, “I extend my sincere thanks to the committee members for their dedication, professionalism and collaborative efforts in delivering a comprehensive set of reforms within a short timeframe.”

These reforms, once implemented, are expected to significantly improve the ease, speed, and predictability of repatriation, thereby enhancing Bangladesh’s attractiveness as an investment destination.

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