Remittance inflows to Bangladesh surged to $2.2 billion in the first two weeks of March 2026, according to official data released by Bangladesh Bank. The inflows, crucial for supporting households and the national economy ahead of Eid, came through a mix of state-owned, specialised, private, and foreign commercial banks.
State-owned commercial banks contributed a total of $372.49 million, with Agrani Bank leading the group, receiving $164.52 million. Janata Bank followed closely with $129.92 million, while Sonali Bank added $63.08 million.
Specialised banks recorded $272.88 million in remittances, entirely attributed to Bangladesh Krishi Bank, highlighting its continued role in facilitating rural and agricultural remittances.
Private commercial banks dominated the inflows, collectively bringing in $1.55 billion. Islami Bank Bangladesh topped this segment with $395.29 million, followed by BRAC Bank with $228.24 million, and Trust Bank at $162.53 million. Other private banks contributed the remaining amounts, underscoring the sector’s leading role in mobilising funds from the Bangladeshi diaspora.
Foreign commercial banks, by contrast, accounted for a minimal portion, totalling $4.54 million, with Standard Chartered Bank receiving $3.37 million. This illustrates the relatively limited penetration of foreign banks in small-scale remittance services within the country.
The following table summarises the top-performing banks across each category:
| Bank Category | Bank Name | Remittance Inflow (USD Million) |
|---|---|---|
| State-owned Commercial Banks | Agrani Bank | 164.52 |
| Janata Bank | 129.92 | |
| Sonali Bank | 63.08 | |
| Specialised Banks | Bangladesh Krishi Bank | 272.88 |
| Private Commercial Banks | Islami Bank Bangladesh | 395.29 |
| BRAC Bank | 228.24 | |
| Trust Bank | 162.53 | |
| Foreign Commercial Banks | Standard Chartered Bank | 3.37 |
Analysts note that the remittance inflows are a vital source of foreign currency for Bangladesh, particularly during festive periods such as Eid, when household spending typically rises. The data also reflects the prominent role of private banks in channeling funds from overseas, a trend that has strengthened over the past decade.
The central bank has urged all banks to ensure swift processing of remittances, especially ahead of Eid, to meet growing consumer demand and prevent delays that could affect households relying on overseas earnings.