In the first 18 days of February 2026, Bangladeshi expatriates have sent over $2 billion back home through legal channels. Economic analysts attribute this surge to rising household demand ahead of the national parliamentary elections and the upcoming Ramadan, noting that migrant workers are remitting more than usual to support their families during this period.
If this upward trend continues, remittances could surpass the $3 billion milestone by the end of February.
Historical Trends and Monthly Remittances
According to recent data from Bangladesh Bank, expatriates sent $317 million in January 2026 alone, marking the third-highest single-month remittance in the country’s history. This amount is equivalent to approximately 38,674 crore taka. The previous record was set in March 2025, with $329 million remitted during the Eid-ul-Fitr period, while December 2025 saw $322 million, the second-highest single-month total at that time.
The following table illustrates monthly remittances for the current fiscal year (July 2025–January 2026):
| Month | Remittance (Million USD) |
|---|---|
| July 2025 | 247.78 |
| August 2025 | 242.19 |
| September 2025 | 268.58 |
| October 2025 | 256.35 |
| November 2025 | 288.95 |
| December 2025 | 322.66 |
| January 2026 | 317.00 |
From July 2025 to 18 February 2026, expatriates have sent a total of $2,156 million, representing a 22.3% increase compared to the same period in the previous fiscal year ($1,763 million).
Reserve Position and Economic Implications
As of 17 February 2026, the country’s foreign exchange reserves stood at $34.54 billion, according to Bangladesh Bank. Under the IMF’s BPM6 methodology, the actual reserve is estimated at $29.86 billion.
Experts note that since the fall of the Awami League government on 5 August 2024, growth in expatriate remittances has been modest. However, banking sector officials suggest that the decline in illegal hundi operations and the stabilisation of exchange rates in formal banking channels have encouraged expatriates to remit through official routes.
This sustained inflow of remittances is expected to strengthen the country’s foreign currency reserves and contribute to overall economic stability, particularly in the face of increased domestic demand during election and festive periods.