News Flash
DHAKA, Sept 30, 2025 (BSS) - Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed today expressed optimism that a portion of the laundered money from abroad could be brought back by next February.
The Finance Adviser was responding to reporters' queries after chairing a meeting of the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase at the Cabinet Division Conference Room, Bangladesh Secretariat.
Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said the process of bringing laundered money back is progressing gradually through legal and institutional mechanisms, though it takes time and cannot be done overnight.
He added that those who siphon off money abroad are usually very shrewd and technically skilled, making asset recovery a lengthy and complex process.
"Bringing the money back is not like calling up the 'Swiss Bank' and asking them to hand it over. It has to go through international legal and financial procedures. Some progress has already been made, and discussions are ongoing with several reputed law firms. Negotiations are also moving forward with certain jurisdictions. We hope to see some results by February," he said.
The Adviser informed that the government has already identified 11-12 high-priority cases of money laundering, while investigations continue into the amassed assets. "Bangladesh Bank has frozen assets, identified foreign bank accounts, and collected information on passports and residencies of the persons involved. These cases are being pursued through formal channels," he added.
Responding to a question about whether ongoing efforts would continue if a new government takes over after the upcoming election, Dr Salehuddin said, "They will be compelled to continue these processes, because without them money cannot be brought back. This is an international practice. If anyone sits idle, nothing will return. The procedures we have set in motion must be maintained."
On food security, the Finance Adviser said the government has approved rice imports as a precautionary measure despite having stocks. "We keep a buffer stock of Atap rice. Import approvals have been given in principle so that there is no sudden shortage in case of unexpected disruptions," he explained.
Dr Salehuddin said fertilizer imports, particularly DAP and urea, remain a top priority. "Fortunately, global fertilizer prices have eased somewhat. We are ensuring the supply of essential items to maintain market stability, while also ensuring adequate stocks of fertilizer and rice," he noted.
When asked about the findings of a recent BBS report, he said the government is cautious about the wellbeing of children and mothers. "That's why programmes like VGF and special allocations for marginal communities in coastal and haor regions are being strengthened. Fishermen, for example, will receive 20 kilograms of rice per household during the upcoming fishing ban," he said.
On the current market situation, Dr Salehuddin said rice prices have declined recently due to improved stocks, while vegetables and other perishables fluctuate seasonally. He added that some manipulation by a section of traders continues in wholesale and retail markets. "That's why we cannot claim full success yet," he admitted.
