Bangladesh Remittance Inflow Up 56% in Early January

Bangladesh’s remittance inflow has surged by 56.3% in the first 17 days of January 2026, reaching over $1.86 billion. This robust growth continues the upward trend seen throughout the current fiscal year.

According to Bangladesh Bank spokesperson Arif Hossain Khan, the country received $18.12 billion in remittances between July 2025 and January 17, 2026. This represents a 21.1% increase compared to the $14.96 billion recorded during the same period in the previous fiscal year (FY2024-25).

Bolstered by these strong inflows, Bangladesh’s gross foreign exchange reserves have climbed to over $33 billion. Under the IMF’s BPM6 manual—a stricter international standard—reserves now stand at approximately $29 billion, providing a significant cushion for the economy.

The central bank attributes this growth to several key factors are incentives for using legal banking channels. Simplified processes for formal fund transfers. The proactive role of international exchange houses.

This steady financial independence is influencing Bangladeshi policymakers to move away from high-interest or "tough-condition" loans from international lenders like the IMF.