More than 200 companies, including top industrial groups, defaulted businesses, and small enterprises, have applied to the Bangladesh Bank for policy support, primarily in the form of loan restructuring and rescheduling, sources confirmed.

The central bank formed a five-member committee in January, led by Executive Director Mezbah Ul Haque, to assess and assist corporate borrowers impacted by factors beyond their control. The committee has been holding meetings with applicants since its formation.

Initially set to expire on April 30, the application deadline was extended to May 31.

Prominent business groups are among the applicants, including Deshbandhu, Orion, Beximco, AG, S Alam, Bashundhara, and Magpie Textile.

A committee member said policy support would vary depending on each case. “Some may receive lower down payments, others longer repayment periods,” he noted, citing foreign exchange losses and political instability as key reasons behind corporate distress.

Applicants affected by the Russia-Ukraine war and local political unrest are also under consideration. However, the facility will not be extended to entities involved in fraud or money laundering.

The committee is reviewing whether companies with defaulted loans, particularly those exceeding Tk 50 crore, were impacted by uncontrollable factors and if support could enable their revival.