By Admin 
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has given a big blow to Bangladesh. The organization has made it clear that it will not release the sixth installment of the loan until a new government is formed in the country. The interim government formed after last year’s coup in Bangladesh is currently in power, while elections are to be held next year. In such a situation, this decision of IMF can affect the country’s economy.
Help of 5.5 billion dollars was received in 2023
Bangladesh had sought help from IMF in 2022 amid economic pressure. In January 2023, the organization had approved a package of $4.7 billion, which was later increased to $5.5 billion. So far the country has received five installments of $3.6 billion. 800 million dollars (about Rs 6,720 crore) were to be released as the sixth installment, but the IMF has stopped it for the time being.
IMF sought assurance from the new government
IMF says that the next installment of the loan will be given only after talks with the new government. The organization wants to ensure whether the incoming government will continue the existing economic reform programs or not. The IMF is worried that the policies of the new government may change, so it does not want to release the funds in a hurry.
Bangladesh Bank said – ‘The situation is stable’
Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansoor said that the country’s foreign exchange reserves are stable and there is no fluctuation in the dollar rate. He said that IMF support is necessary, but even if the installment is not received now, the country can manage its economic situation.
Experts said – IMF is putting pressure
Economic experts believe that the IMF is taking this step to put pressure on implementing its conditions. Earlier also IMF had adopted such strategy before elections. According to sources, this decision is also to send a message to the world that Bangladesh is not following all the policies of the IMF.
Review will be held in Dhaka from October 29
An IMF delegation will reach Dhaka on 29 October. This team will meet government institutions for two weeks and prepare a report. This report will decide whether the installment will be released or not. At present, Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves are at $32.14 billion and there is an improvement in exports and expatriate earnings.
After the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina government in 2024, the interim government of Mohammad Yunus was formed in Bangladesh. Now general elections are expected to be held in the country in 2026. This decision of IMF can have a big impact on the economic policy of the new government.