A consortium of Chinese nationals and Bangladeshi partners has applied for a digital bank license in Bangladesh under the name China Bangla Bank Plc. According to documents from the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka, the consortium has pledged an initial investment of approximately $10 million, with a further commitment of $200 million over five years. The venture is expected to generate over 7,000 jobs in Bangladesh and aims to enhance financial inclusion for marginalized communities by extending banking services to over 75 million under-served individuals.
The China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Guangdong Committee has contacted the Economic and Commercial Office of the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh to facilitate communication with relevant Bangladeshi agencies regarding the application. A high-powered team from the Bangladesh Bank had previously visited China, discussing the potential for digital banking operations by Chinese entrepreneurs.