Bangladesh’s foreign currency reserves have strengthened to USD 34.29 billion, demonstrating a robust economic position despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The growth highlights the resilience of the country’s external sector amid global uncertainties and volatile market conditions.
The update was confirmed on Wednesday, 11 March, by Arif Hossain Khan, Executive Director and spokesperson of Bangladesh Bank.
Current Reserve Figures
As of 11 March, the central bank reported the following:
Gross foreign exchange reserves: USD 34,292.27 million (USD 34.29 billion)
Net reserves (BPM6 methodology): USD 29,569.83 million (USD 29.56 billion)
The BPM6 (Balance of Payments Manual, 6th edition), as adopted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), calculates net reserves by subtracting short-term external liabilities from total reserves. This provides a more accurate reflection of the usable foreign currency available for international payments.
For context, prior to the payment of the Akur Bill on 8 March, Bangladesh’s gross reserves were USD 34.10 billion, with net reserves at USD 29.38 billion, indicating a steady growth over the week.
| Date | Gross Reserves (USD Billion) | Net Reserves (BPM6, USD Billion) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 March 2026 | 34.10 | 29.38 | After Akur Bill payment |
| 11 March 2026 | 34.29 | 29.56 | Latest official figures |
Understanding Gross and Net Reserves
Gross reserves comprise holdings of foreign currencies, gold, Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), and Bangladesh’s IMF position. Net reserves deduct short-term liabilities, offering a clearer view of funds available for imports, debt servicing, and international obligations. This distinction is critical for assessing the country’s capacity to manage external economic pressures.
Economic Significance
The rise in reserves strengthens Bangladesh’s balance of payments, providing a buffer against external shocks, including oil price fluctuations and disruptions in global trade. Higher reserves also help maintain exchange rate stability, ensuring the taka remains resilient against major currencies and bolstering investor confidence.
Financial analysts note that sustained reserve accumulation enables the central bank to manage liquidity efficiently, intervene in the foreign exchange market when necessary, and ensure uninterrupted payments for imports and external debt obligations.
Arif Hossain Khan emphasised that the central bank is monitoring the situation closely, assuring that policy measures will continue to safeguard short-term coverage while promoting long-term economic stability.
The recent increase in reserves, achieved despite geopolitical uncertainty and global market volatility, reflects the impact of strong export earnings, consistent remittance inflows, and prudent reserve management. Economists suggest this reinforces Bangladesh’s position as a stable emerging economy in South Asia, capable of withstanding external shocks while maintaining sustainable growth and financial confidence.