The Daily Corporate Desk
Dhaka, July 15, 2026: Commercial banks in Bangladesh have proposed introducing new fees on 14 customer services, including charges for cash withdrawals made more than three times a month at bank counters, as part of a broader revision of banking service fees.
The proposal has been submitted to the Association of Bankers, Bangladesh (ABB), which recommended updating the existing fee structure to reflect rising operational and technology-related costs.
Under the proposal, customers would be allowed to make up to three over-the-counter cash withdrawals per month without any charge. From the fourth withdrawal onward, banks would be permitted to charge between Tk100 and Tk300 per transaction.
The proposed changes also include a Tk500 fee for reactivating dormant bank accounts. In addition, banks have suggested increasing charges for several existing services, including loan processing fees, which could rise significantly under the revised structure.
Overall, the proposal covers 14 banking services that are currently offered free of charge, while recommending higher fees for a number of existing banking services.
Concerns Over Customer Impact
The proposed fee revision has sparked concern among customers and financial analysts, who warn that higher banking costs could place an additional burden on individuals and businesses, particularly those with limited incomes.
Industry experts argue that while banks face increasing expenses related to technology upgrades, cybersecurity, and operational efficiency, any increase in service charges should be carefully balanced against customers’ financial capacity.
Abu Naser Bakhtiar, Chairman of Agrani Bank PLC, said the proposed rates could still be adjusted depending on the central bank’s assessment.
Meanwhile, Professor Shahidul Zahid, Chairman of the Department of Banking and Insurance at the University of Dhaka, said the proposed charges appear relatively high and could discourage lower-income customers from using formal banking services.
Bangladesh Bank Yet to Approve Proposal
Bangladesh Bank has clarified that the proposal is still under review and that no final decision has been taken.
Speaking on the issue, Bangladesh Bank spokesperson Arif Hossain Khan said the central bank would not approve any measure that places an unreasonable financial burden on customers.
He emphasized that excessive service charges could reduce public confidence in the banking system and discourage people from using formal financial services.
If approved, the revised fee structure would represent one of the most significant changes to retail banking charges in recent years.
