As global economic interdependence continues to intensify, Bangladesh’s economy is becoming increasingly sensitive to movements in international financial markets, placing renewed emphasis on fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. The performance of the Bangladeshi taka against major global currencies has evolved into a crucial barometer of the country’s economic direction, influencing everything from trade competitiveness and inflation to investment confidence and household purchasing power. With expanding trade volumes, steady remittance inflows, rising foreign investment interest and growing cross-border service transactions, exchange rate trends now occupy a central position in economic planning and policy debate.
On Friday, 19 December, Bangladesh Bank released its latest official update on currency exchange rates, providing an overview of how the taka is currently valued against a broad range of international currencies. These benchmark rates play a pivotal role in guiding banking operations, import and export settlements, foreign currency trading, and international accounting practices. As a result, the data are closely monitored by business leaders, exporters, importers, remittance recipients and international travellers, all of whom rely on accurate currency valuations to manage costs and mitigate financial risks.
According to the central bank’s figures, the United States dollar is presently valued at 122.31 taka, maintaining its dominant position in Bangladesh’s external trade and financial transactions. The euro, representing the European Union’s common currency, is trading at 143.61 taka, while the British pound continues to command a premium at 163.62 taka, reflecting its strong standing in global markets. Among other major Western currencies, the Australian dollar is priced at 80.81 taka and the Canadian dollar at 88.73 taka, values shaped in part by global commodity trends and international interest rate expectations.
Within the Asian currency landscape, notable differences are evident. The Japanese yen remains relatively weak, trading at 0.78 taka per unit. China’s yuan, also known as the renminbi, stands at 17.37 taka, underscoring China’s importance as one of Bangladesh’s largest trading partners. The Singapore dollar, a key regional currency, is valued at 94.77 taka. Meanwhile, the Indian rupee trades at 1.35 taka and the Sri Lankan rupee at 2.53 taka, rates that carry particular relevance given Bangladesh’s close economic ties within South Asia. The Swedish krona, representing a significant European economy, is currently valued at 13.15 taka.
Alternative data sources, including Google, indicate modest variations in certain rates. These figures place the Singapore dollar at 94.68 taka, the Malaysian ringgit at 29.95 taka, the Saudi riyal at 32.59 taka and the Kuwaiti dinar at a notably high 398.35 taka. Middle Eastern currencies hold special importance for Bangladesh due to the large expatriate workforce in the Gulf region and the steady flow of remittances that support foreign exchange reserves.
Economists emphasise that exchange rate movements have a direct and far-reaching impact on import costs, export competitiveness, inflation trends and overall macroeconomic stability. Variations in the US dollar and Gulf currencies, in particular, significantly shape Bangladesh’s trade balance and remittance-driven inflows. Bangladesh Bank continues to monitor currency markets closely and remains prepared to intervene through policy measures should excessive volatility threaten financial stability.
Foreign exchange rates are inherently dynamic and can change rapidly in response to global shocks, geopolitical developments and domestic policy decisions. Experts therefore strongly advise businesses and individuals engaged in foreign currency transactions to consult banks or reliable official sources for the latest updates before making financial commitments.