Gross Reserves Hit $32.72 Billion Mark

Bangladesh’s economic landscape has received a significant boost as the nation’s foreign exchange reserves continue their upward trajectory, reaching a new milestone this month. According to the latest figures released by the central bank on Monday, 22 December 2025, the country’s gross reserves have climbed to a substantial $32.72 billion (32,720.12 million). This steady accumulation of capital underscores a burgeoning stability within the external sector, providing a vital safeguard against global market volatility and ensuring the nation is better equipped to handle international payment obligations.

Arif Hossain Khan, the Executive Director and Spokesperson for Bangladesh Bank, confirmed these updated figures during a formal press briefing. He noted that the data reflects a consistent inflow of foreign currency, which has bolstered the national exchequer. This growth is particularly encouraging as it suggests that the various fiscal measures implemented to encourage formal remittance channels—including the government’s 2.5% incentive for expatriate workers—are yielding tangible results. Furthermore, the stabilization of the Taka and a decrease in unauthorized hundi transactions have helped channel more foreign currency into the official banking system.

The central bank currently monitors reserves using two distinct methodologies: the traditional Gross Reserves calculation and the more stringent BPM6 (Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, 6th Edition) standard mandated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The BPM6 standard offers a more transparent and conservative view of the nation’s finances by excluding encumbered assets, such as the Export Development Fund (EDF), to reflect the actual “net” usable liquidity available for international transactions.

Central Bank Reserve Data Comparison (December 2025)

As of 22 December, the BPM6-compliant reserves stood at $28.04 billion, showing a marked improvement from the figures recorded just four days prior. The swift increase of over $160 million in such a short duration highlights the efficiency of recent monetary interventions and a robust rebound in export earnings, particularly within the ready-made garment (RMG) sector. Analysts from the Bangladesh Bank indicate that the current reserve level is sufficient to cover nearly five months of the country’s import bills, well within the safety margin recommended by global financial institutions.

The disparity between the gross and net figures represents short-term liabilities and specific dedicated funds that are not immediately available for balance-of-payment support. However, as the central bank continues to navigate its international debt obligations and clears outstanding energy bills, the sustained growth in reserves acts as a critical buffer. This upward trend is expected to enhance the country’s sovereign credit rating, potentially lowering the cost of borrowing in international markets and fostering an environment conducive to further foreign direct investment.