Remittance inflows to Bangladesh reached $2.2 billion during the first two weeks of March 2026, according to Bangladesh Bank. The figures, reported ahead of the Eid festival, highlight the critical role of overseas remittances in supporting household incomes and the national economy.
The funds were received through four major banking sectors: state-owned commercial banks, specialised banks, private commercial banks, and foreign commercial banks.
Among state-owned banks, Agrani Bank led the inflows with $164.52 million, followed by Janata Bank at $129.92 million, and Sonali Bank, which contributed $63.08 million, totalling $372.49 million from this sector.
Specialised banks recorded a total of $272.88 million, with all inflows attributed to Bangladesh Krishi Bank, reflecting its focus on remittance services for rural and agricultural communities.
The largest portion of remittances came through private commercial banks, which together handled $1.55 billion. Islami Bank Bangladesh received the highest sum in this category, amounting to $395.29 million, followed by BRAC Bank at $228.24 million, and Trust Bank with $162.53 million. The remaining inflows were distributed among other private banks.
Foreign commercial banks accounted for the smallest share, with a total of $4.54 million, of which Standard Chartered Bank brought in $3.37 million. Analysts suggest that foreign banks continue to play a minor role in remittance collection, particularly for small and medium-value transfers.
The top-performing banks across categories are summarised in the table below:
| Bank Category | Bank Name | Remittance Inflow (USD Million) |
|---|---|---|
| State-owned Commercial Banks | Agrani Bank | 164.52 |
| Janata Bank | 129.92 | |
| Sonali Bank | 63.08 | |
| Specialised Banks | Bangladesh Krishi Bank | 272.88 |
| Private Commercial Banks | Islami Bank Bangladesh | 395.29 |
| BRAC Bank | 228.24 | |
| Trust Bank | 162.53 | |
| Foreign Commercial Banks | Standard Chartered Bank | 3.37 |
The surge in remittances highlights the growing reliance on private banking channels for sending money home from abroad. Central bank officials have urged all financial institutions to ensure timely processing of incoming funds, particularly in the run-up to Eid, when demand for cash and household spending typically peaks.
Observers also note that the trend demonstrates the increasing confidence of expatriates in private banks for faster and more reliable remittance services, signalling a shift in Bangladesh’s remittance landscape.