Dhaka Bank, Mastercard launch SME credit card

Dhaka Bank PLC has collaborated with Mastercard to introduce a dual-currency payment solution, titled the “Dhaka Bank-Mastercard SME Business Credit Card”, to help small and medium-sized enterprises manage expenses, optimise cash flow and support business growth, according to a press release.

AKM Shahnawaj, additional managing director of Dhaka Bank PLC; and Zakia Sultana, country manager of Bangladesh at Mastercard, jointly inaugurated the card at a ceremony in Dhaka on Monday.

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Osman Ershad Faiz, managing director and chief executive officer of Dhaka Bank, was not present at the programme but shared his remarks in a message.

“SMEs are at the heart of Bangladesh’s economy, and Dhaka Bank remains committed to supporting their growth through innovative financial solutions,” he said in the message.

He said the card would provide entrepreneurs with greater financial flexibility and help them manage their businesses more efficiently. The initiative would also accelerate digital payment adoption and support the vision of a Cashless Bangladesh, he added.

Zakia said small enterprises were central to Bangladesh’s economic progress and digital transformation, making access to innovative financial tools essential. The collaboration reflects Mastercard’s commitment to supporting the SME ecosystem through secure, convenient and value-added payment solutions that help entrepreneurs expand their businesses and contribute to sustainable economic growth, she added.

Tailored to SMEs’ evolving needs, the card offers customised spending limits and flexible repayment options, enabling business owners to manage cash flow and maintain greater control over day-to-day operations.

Under applicable Bangladesh Bank guidelines, eligible SMEs registered with the SME Foundation may avail themselves of an annual foreign exchange remittance limit of up to $3,000 for legitimate current or operational business expenses abroad.

The dual-currency feature facilitates domestic and international transactions, offering added convenience to businesses engaged in cross-border trade and travel. Cardholders will also enjoy premium business and lifestyle benefits.

During the event, SME cards were handed over to Md Al Mamun Sumon of Naba Shoe Industry and Md Hasan Mahmud Khan of HNBC Industries Ltd.

Among others, Hafia Tazrean, additional director of the SME & Special Programmes Department of Bangladesh Bank; Md Mostaque Ahmed, deputy managing director and chief emerging markets officer; HM Mostafizur Rahaman, senior executive vice-president and head of retail business; Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman Palash, executive vice-president and head of the MSME and emerging business division; and Jubaer Hossain, lead merchant and commerce at Mastercard Bangladesh, were also present.