B Mirror Report: Negotiations between the government and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the release of the next tranches of its $5.5 billion credit programme have made little tangible progress, raising the possibility of a rethink by the lender, sources said.

Bangladesh has so far received $3.595 billion under the programme, which is set to expire in December. About $1.3 billion in two tranches has remained pending since June last year.

Officials familiar with the discussions said the IMF is waiting for clear and time-bound reform commitments from the government, particularly in the upcoming budget. Without specific announcements, they warned, the remaining disbursements may be withheld or the programme could be reconsidered.

“There is hardly any possibility of receiving further tranches within this fiscal year unless reforms are clearly outlined,” one official said, adding that the two sides could instead move toward a new programme arrangement.

The IMF, following its Article IV consultation in January, flagged weak revenue mobilisation, banking sector vulnerabilities, incomplete exchange rate reforms and high inflation as key concerns affecting macroeconomic stability.

It also noted that Bangladesh had missed key revenue targets and had yet to implement a comprehensive strategy for banking sector stability. The Fund stressed the need for “decisive and sustained reforms” to restore financial stability.

Sources said recent amendments to the Bank Resolution Act 2026, including provisions related to ownership of merged banks, have drawn concern from development partners. The World Bank has reportedly suggested repealing a section of the law as a condition for budget support.

Officials from the finance ministry and Bangladesh Bank could not be reached for comment.