Bangladeshi-issued bank cards, both credit and debit, are increasingly used abroad for a wide range of transactions. Historically, Bangladeshi credit cards dominated international usage, but in recent years, debit cards have gained significant ground. This trend reflects a growing preference among Bangladeshis for flexible, interest-free payment options while overseas.
A recent report by the Bangladesh Bank highlights the country-specific trends in foreign card usage. It reveals that Bangladeshi credit cardholders spend the most in the United States, whereas debit card transactions are highest in the United Kingdom.
Top Countries for Bangladeshi Card Usage Abroad (December)
| Card Type | Rank | Country | Transaction Value (BDT crore) | Share (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Card | 1 | United States | 68 | 13.8 |
| 2 | Thailand | 65 | 13.2 | |
| 3 | United Kingdom | 44 | 9.0 | |
| 4 | Singapore | 38 | 7.7 | |
| 5 | India | 35 | 7.1 | |
| Debit Card | 1 | United Kingdom | 63 | 16.1 |
| 2 | United States | 50 | 12.8 | |
| 3 | India | 36 | 9.2 | |
| 4 | Saudi Arabia | 35 | 8.9 | |
| 5 | Ireland | 31 | 7.9 |
According to the data, more than half of all international credit card spending by Bangladeshis is concentrated in the top five countries, totalling 250 crore BDT out of 491 crore BDT. Similarly, debit card transactions in these five countries account for 215 crore BDT out of 392 crore BDT.
Experts attribute the high debit card usage in the UK to the large Bangladeshi student population. Many students carry dual-currency debit cards, funded monthly by family members in Bangladesh, enabling smooth financial management without incurring interest. Unlike credit cards, debit cards do not involve borrowing, interest, or repayment obligations, making them a preferred option for many.
Bangladesh Bank’s analysis also shows sector-specific patterns:
Debit cards: highest usage in government services, followed by departmental stores, then commercial service purchases.
Credit cards: highest usage in departmental stores, followed by retail outlets, then transport services.
Monthly trends show a rise in debit card usage abroad, from 373 crore BDT in November to 392 crore BDT in December—a 5% increase. In contrast, credit card spending slightly declined from 511 crore BDT to 491 crore BDT in the same period.
Syed Mahbubur Rahman, Managing Director of Mutual Trust Bank, noted that most Bangladeshi banks now offer dual-currency debit cards, further encouraging overseas usage. The combination of convenience, interest-free transactions, and a significant student base abroad explains why debit cards are gaining popularity, particularly in the United Kingdom.