Remittance Inflows Rise 21% by Mid-February

Bangladesh has witnessed a significant surge in remittance inflows, with funds from expatriates increasing by 21.2 per cent during the first 16 days of February. According to official figures, the country received USD 1.807 billion in remittances over this period, compared to USD 1.490 billion during the same period last year.

This upward trend continues a robust pattern in the current fiscal year. From July 1 to 16 February, Bangladeshi expatriates have sent home a total of USD 21.24 billion, up from USD 17.452 billion in the same period of the previous fiscal year. Analysts attribute this growth to rising global employment opportunities, higher wages in key labour markets, and the strengthening of formal remittance channels.

In January alone, expatriates remitted USD 3.17 billion, equivalent to BDT 38,674 crore at the official exchange rate of BDT 122 per US dollar. The steady inflow of foreign earnings is crucial for the nation’s economy, supporting the balance of payments, strengthening foreign exchange reserves, and providing vital income for households across Bangladesh.

Economists note that the sustained rise in remittances also underscores the importance of the Bangladeshi diaspora in the global labour market. Sectors such as construction, healthcare, and technology abroad continue to be key sources of overseas income for Bangladeshi families.

The following table summarises the remittance trends:

*Assuming an exchange rate of BDT 122 per USD.

The government has emphasised measures to facilitate remittances through formal banking channels, reduce transaction costs, and encourage diaspora engagement in national development initiatives. With the upward trajectory continuing, remittance inflows are expected to remain a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s economic stability throughout 2026.