Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves have climbed to 34.43 billion US dollars, according to the latest figures released by Bangladesh Bank, reflecting a gradual strengthening of the country’s external sector position driven by record-breaking remittance inflows and a broadly stable macroeconomic environment.
The data was confirmed on Thursday (2 April) by Arif Hossain Khan, Executive Director and spokesperson of the central bank. He stated that the country’s gross foreign exchange reserves currently stand at 34.43 billion US dollars. However, under the International Monetary Fund’s Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual (BPM-6) framework, the reserves are recorded at 29.81 billion US dollars.
The difference between the two figures is attributed to standard international accounting adjustments, including short-term liabilities and other external obligations that are excluded under the IMF’s BPM-6 methodology. Despite this variation, both measures indicate an overall improvement in Bangladesh’s external position compared with previous months, underpinned primarily by strong foreign currency inflows.
Record-breaking remittance inflows in March
Bangladesh achieved a historic milestone in March by recording its highest-ever monthly remittance inflow. During the 31-day period, expatriate Bangladeshis sent home 3.755 billion US dollars, equivalent to 375.5 crore US dollars, setting a new national record for a single month.
This surge in remittance inflows has played a vital role in strengthening external accounts, helping to stabilise foreign exchange reserves, reduce pressure on import payments, and support overall balance of payments management.
Bank-wise remittance inflows (March)
| Banking channel | Remittance inflow |
|---|---|
| State-owned commercial banks | Over $640 million |
| Agrani Bank (specialised bank) | $464.7 million |
| Private commercial banks | $2.64 billion |
| Foreign banks | Around $1.2 million |
| Total | $3.755 billion |
Private commercial banks dominated remittance distribution, processing approximately 2.64 billion US dollars. State-owned commercial banks collectively received more than 640 million US dollars, while Agrani Bank, a specialised state-owned institution, handled around 464.7 million US dollars. Foreign banks accounted for a minimal inflow of roughly 1.2 million US dollars.
Economic outlook and significance
Economists have welcomed the sharp rise in remittance inflows, describing it as a key pillar of resilience for Bangladesh’s external sector. Remittances continue to serve as a critical source of foreign currency, supporting household consumption, sustaining rural economies, and reinforcing the country’s ability to manage external financial pressures.
The improvement in reserves is expected to provide policymakers with increased flexibility in managing import requirements, stabilising the exchange rate, and meeting external debt obligations. Analysts also note that if remittance inflows remain strong and export performance holds steady, Bangladesh could see further improvements in macroeconomic stability in the coming months.
While global economic uncertainties persist, the latest data from Bangladesh Bank suggests a cautiously improving external outlook, anchored by record remittance performance and steady foreign currency inflows.