Dhaka, Nov. 11 -- Bangladesh Bank has instructed banks to allow imports of 10 essential commodities for Ramadan under a 90-day deferred payment facility to ensure steady supplies and keep prices affordable.

The central bank's Foreign Exchange Policy Department (FEPD-1) issued a circular on Wednesday, allowing the imports under "supplier's credit" or "buyer's credit" arrangements.

The circular was sent to the chief executives of all Authorized Dealer (AD) banks, which are licensed to conduct foreign exchange transactions.

The facility covers rice, wheat, onions, pulses, soybean and palm oil, sugar, chickpeas, peas, spices, and dates.

Under the facility, importers will not have to pay the full cost of goods upon arrival. They can make t...