Remittances Surge: $2.88 Billion Sent in Early January

Bangladesh has witnessed a significant rise in remittances from overseas workers, with inflows reaching $2.88 billion in the first three days of January 2026. Converted at an exchange rate of BDT 122 per US dollar, this amounts to approximately BDT 351.36 billion.

Arif Hossain Khan, spokesperson for Bangladesh Bank, confirmed the figures on Sunday, 4 January. He highlighted that compared with the same period last year, remittances have increased by 37.1%, underlining the continued importance of expatriate earnings in supporting the national economy.

A comparative snapshot of remittance inflows for the first three days of January over the past two years is presented below:

Furthermore, the cumulative remittances from 1 July 2025 to 3 January 2026 totalled $16.553 billion, equivalent to roughly BDT 2,018.01 billion, compared to $13.987 billion (BDT 1,705.91 billion) over the same period last year. This represents a 25.4% year-on-year increase, demonstrating sustained growth in expatriate contributions.

Analysts attribute the surge to the continued robust flow of funds from Bangladeshi workers in the Middle East, Europe, and North America. Rising household expenses and investment needs abroad have motivated expatriates to remit more funds to their families.

Bangladesh Bank reports that the consistent increase in remittances plays a crucial role in stabilising the national economy. These inflows help manage inflation, strengthen foreign currency reserves, and maintain macroeconomic stability, particularly amid global economic uncertainties.

Experts emphasise that sustaining this growth will require continued financial literacy programmes for migrants and the expansion of secure, cost-effective remittance channels. As Bangladesh’s economy increasingly relies on expatriate earnings, efficient utilisation of these funds for both household welfare and national development remains vital.