Bangladesh’s economy has received a notable boost as the country’s foreign exchange reserves continue to rise steadily, sending a reassuring signal of stability and renewed confidence at a time of persistent global economic uncertainty. Amid fluctuating commodity prices, tightening global financial conditions, and ongoing geopolitical tensions, the latest reserve figures are being viewed as a positive milestone for the nation’s external financial position. According to updated data released by Bangladesh Bank, total foreign currency reserves have increased to 32.57 billion US dollars, a development welcomed by policymakers, economists, and business leaders alike.
The information was formally confirmed on Thursday, 18 December, by Arif Hossain Khan, Executive Director and spokesperson of Bangladesh Bank. Speaking to the media, he explained that the gradual rise in reserves reflects the combined impact of several supportive factors. Among these are the continued flow of remittances from Bangladeshis working abroad, a modest but steady improvement in export earnings, and tighter discipline in managing foreign exchange transactions. He emphasised that the central bank remains vigilant, closely observing market trends and prepared to intervene through appropriate policy measures to maintain stability in the currency market.
According to Bangladesh Bank’s latest figures, the country’s gross foreign exchange reserves stood at 32,573.31 million US dollars as of 18 December. When calculated using the International Monetary Fund’s Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, Sixth Edition (BPM-6), the reserve figure currently stands at 27,875.70 million US dollars. By comparison, on 17 December, gross reserves were recorded at 32,482.88 million dollars, while the BPM-6-adjusted amount stood at 27,817.86 million dollars. Although the increase over a single day appears relatively modest, economists stress that it reflects an improving trend in external balance and more effective macroeconomic management.
Analysts point out that pressure on foreign exchange reserves has eased due to a combination of restrained import spending, efforts to curb non-essential expenditures, and disciplined repayment of foreign debt obligations. These measures have helped limit outflows of foreign currency at a time when many developing economies are facing acute balance-of-payments challenges. At the same time, remittances sent by Bangladeshi expatriates continue to play a crucial role, providing a stable and reliable source of foreign currency inflows despite global uncertainty.
Export earnings, though still affected by slower demand in key international markets, have shown signs of stabilisation. This gradual recovery, combined with Bangladesh Bank’s cautious monetary stance, careful management of dollar liquidity, and enhanced oversight of the banking sector, has contributed to a more predictable and balanced foreign exchange environment.
It is important to note that the net, or usable, foreign exchange reserve is calculated in line with the IMF’s BPM-6 methodology. Under this framework, short-term foreign liabilities, scheduled debt repayments, and other external commitments are deducted from gross reserves to determine a country’s true reserve strength. International financial institutions generally consider this net figure to be the most accurate indicator of a nation’s capacity to meet its external obligations.
Looking ahead, economists remain cautiously optimistic. If the upward momentum in reserves can be sustained, it is expected to ease pressure on import financing, support timely repayment of foreign loans, and strengthen Bangladesh’s credibility in international financial markets. More broadly, stronger reserves could help restore investor confidence and reinforce macroeconomic stability, signalling that the economy is gradually moving towards a more secure and balanced footing.