BB directs digital disbursement of consumer loans to vendors

Bangladesh Bank (BB) has issued a new directive to modernise the country's retail lending operations by allowing scheduled banks to disburse consumer loan proceeds directly to vendors through digital channels, marking a significant shift from traditional paper-based settlement methods.

Under the Banking Regulation and Policy Department (BRPD) circular issued on Tuesday, banks will now be able to use internal electronic fund transfers and the Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) system to directly pay vendors for eligible consumer loans.

The central bank said that the move is aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening transaction security, and ensuring proper end-use of credit.

The new framework covers auto loans, housing finance, consumer durable loans, and loans for professionals.

While existing provisions under the 2004 guidelines on paper-based instruments such as cheques and pay orders will remain in force, digital disbursement has been introduced as an additional mechanism to support faster and more secure transactions.

Bangladesh Bank emphasised that loan proceeds must not, under any circumstances, be credited to borrowers' accounts or disbursed in cash.

The central bank said this measure is intended to reduce fund diversion risks and improve compliance with credit discipline.