Rupali Bank MD calls for tripling SME loan target in Chattogram

Rupali Bank Managing Director Kazi Md Wahidul Islam has directed officials to increase the bank's SME loan disbursement target in Chattogram threefold, from Tk4,000 crore to Tk12,000 crore.

He gave the instruction during the Annual Business Review Meeting 2025 held yesterday (9 May) at Rupali Bank's Chattogram Divisional Office on OR Nizam Road in the city.

Managers and officials from 58 branches and one sub-branch under the division attended the meeting.

The meeting reviewed the bank's performance in deposit collection, loan disbursement, recovery of defaulted loans, foreign remittance inflow, and progress in the cottage, micro, small and medium enterprise (CMSME) sector.

Officials discussed the implementation of the bank's 180-day programme aimed at increasing low-cost and no-cost deposits, strengthening loan recovery, boosting profits, and achieving business targets for 2026.

According to information presented at the meeting, the bank's provision shortfall declined by nearly Tk1,500 crore in 2025, while regulatory capital increased by Tk53 crore. Officials described the improvement as a positive sign for the bank's financial stability.

Addressing the meeting, the managing director stressed the importance of proper loan disbursement and recovery to maintain the bank's reputation and financial stability. He particularly emphasised expanding investment and loan distribution in the SME sector.

He also expressed satisfaction with the performance of the Chattogram Divisional Office in areas including deposit collection, SME financing, recovery of classified loans, and foreign remittance inflow.

The meeting was presided over by Rupali Bank Chattogram Division General Manager and Divisional Head SM Didarul Islam. Senior officials from the Chattogram and Cox's Bazar regions also attended.