Card Transactions Surge 2.5 Times in Five Years

Card-based transactions in Bangladesh have witnessed a remarkable surge over the past five years, growing nearly 2.5 times. According to the latest report published by Bangladesh Bank, total transactions via all types of cards increased by approximately 143 per cent between January 2021 and December 2025.

In January 2021, the total value of card transactions stood at BDT 20,625 crore. By December 2025, this figure had risen sharply to BDT 50,044 crore, signalling a significant expansion in the use of digital payments across the country.

The Bangladesh Bank report provides a detailed overview of credit, debit, and prepaid card usage, highlighting trends in transaction volumes and expenditure patterns across various sectors. At present, 61 banks and one non-bank financial institution (NBFI) in Bangladesh offer card services, with 55 banks providing debit card facilities.

Growth in Card Numbers

Alongside the surge in transactions, the number of cards in circulation has also expanded significantly. As of January 2021, the country had over 24 million debit, credit, and prepaid cards in use. By December 2025, this number had more than doubled to 51.8 million, representing a 115 per cent increase in just five years.

Bangladesh Bank data further reveals that as of August 2020, the total number of all types of cards was 22.2 million, which rose to 56.9 million by July 2025, underscoring the rapid adoption of digital payment instruments nationwide.

Sector-Wise Spending

In December 2025 alone, domestic credit card users spent BDT 3,930 crore across the country. Of this, transactions at department stores accounted for BDT 1,740 crore, reflecting the growing reliance on cards for retail and daily consumption.

Foreign Card Usage

The report also highlighted spending patterns among foreign residents in Bangladesh. U.S. citizens led the list, accounting for over one-quarter of total foreign card spending in July 2025. Following them were cardholders from the United Kingdom, India, Mozambique, Australia, Canada, and Saudi Arabia, demonstrating the growing role of international visitors in the country’s card economy.

Overall, the data illustrates a robust and accelerating shift towards cashless transactions in Bangladesh, with both the number of cards and total transaction volumes showing sustained growth. The trend indicates increasing public trust in digital financial services and reflects the government’s ongoing push for a more inclusive and technology-driven banking ecosystem.