Bank and Financial Institution Mergers Will Not Affect Customers’ Deposits, Assures Finance Adviser

Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed has assured that customers will receive their deposits even if banks or non-banking financial institutions are merged. He made these remarks while addressing journalists after a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Government Procurement at the Secretariat on Tuesday (September 9, 2025).

When asked whether more banks, beyond the five Islamic banks already decided to be merged, would undergo consolidation, the Finance Adviser said, “A decision has been made, but I won’t disclose it. Bangladesh Bank has prepared a work plan. After I assumed office, during a meeting, I stated in principle that we will proceed with this, but I won’t name the banks.” He further elaborated, “We will also restructure non-banking financial institutions. This is one of our priorities, and we will start the process as quickly as possible within the available time.” Bangladesh Bank has identified around 22 underperforming institutions, including leasing companies, for restructuring. Addressing concerns about potential customer inconvenience due to mergers, Dr. Salehuddin said, “It has been ensured that customers will get their money back, whether it’s a deposit or an FDR. For larger amounts, it might take a little time.” **On Japan Visit** Discussing his recent visit to Japan, the Finance Adviser noted, “Japan is our largest donor. We have several critical projects with them, mostly in infrastructure. I held discussions with ADB and JICA, as well as Japan’s Finance Minister and the State Minister for Trade and Investment. A large team from Bangladesh also visited to negotiate an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). Japan is very keen on this.” He added, “The Chief Adviser has emphasized sending workers to Japan, mentioning a target of 100,000 people. We are working to achieve this. There’s a language proficiency requirement, from N1 to N5 levels. A minimum of N3 proficiency ensures job opportunities in Japan. The process has been somewhat slow.” The Finance Adviser clarified, “There’s no involvement of middlemen in this process. We will send workers after skill development, particularly in agricultural processing, where Japan faces a labor shortage. I also requested opportunities for higher education in Japan.”