There seems to be some disparity in terms of implementation of the Government’s stimulus package to help sectors deal with the fallouts of the coronavirus pandemic amidst reports that in 4 months till July, around 26 per cent of Taka 111,141 crore scheme was disbursed even as the export-oriented sector, mainly the RMG industry, is ahead of others with Taka 5,000 crore support been fully disbursed so far.
However, as per media reports, there is a mixed progress in the implementation of the scheme with one fourth of the funds used in 4 months.
Meanwhile, speaking to the media, Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal reportedly stated that after the end of the first quarter of the current fiscal year, the stimulus package would be reviewed.
If we find any problem or delay in any of the packages, we will solve it, claimed the Finance Minister while reports claim that the disbursement of the funds was quick for export-oriented sectors and large industries but SMEs and farming sector were yet to avail much support in this direction.
It may be mentioned here that in the wake of the breakout of COVID-19 in Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina rolled out Taka 5,000 crore bailout/stimulus package for export-oriented industries.
According to reports, Taka 4,935 crore of the fund — released as salaries for workers and employees of export-oriented industries through equal instalments in the 3 months from April to June — has been disbursed as of July.
The Government allocated this interest-free fund with a service charge of 2 per cent only.
