Central Bank to Issue Tk 10,000 Crore ‘Special Sukuk-1’ for Housing and Rail

Bangladesh Bank (BB) has announced the issuance of a Tk 10,000 crore Shariah-compliant bond, named the ‘Bangladesh Government Special Sukuk-1’, to fund national infrastructure and housing projects.

The decision was finalised last week during meetings of the central bank’s Shariah Advisory Committee, presided over by Deputy Governor Dr. Md. Kabir Ahmed.

The Sukuk will be issued on January 14, 2026, through a private placement in favour of the newly formed Sammilito Islamic Bank PLC. The bond features a 10-year tenure with an annual profit rate of 9.75%.

Financed under the ‘Ijarah’ (leasing) method, the proceeds are earmarked for seven housing projects for government employees, managed by the Public Works Department. Select rail services operated by Bangladesh Railway.

This initiative marks a significant step in utilizing Islamic finance for public welfare. Sammilito Islamic Bank, established from the merger of five previously troubled banks, will serve as the primary investor.

The move provides the government with interest-free, long-term funding while offering the Islamic banking sector a high-value, secure investment opportunity.