Imports were up 14 percent to about US$ 16 billion during the last fiscal year (2006-07).

Bangladesh Bank figures released on July 12 showed import goods worth $ 15,903 million reached the country as per the settlements of import letters of credit (L/Cs) during July-June period of the last fiscal year. The figure was $ 13,950 million in 2005-06.

Meanwhile, L/Cs worth $ 17,363 million were opened for imports during FY 2006-07, showing nearly 14 percent growth from the previous fiscal year’s $ 15,245 million.