n a significant boost to the nation’s macroeconomic outlook, Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves have witnessed a notable upward trend, providing a much-needed cushion against global market volatility. According to the latest figures released by the central bank on Monday, 22 December 2025, the country’s gross reserves have climbed to a substantial $32.72 billion (32,720.12 million). This steady accumulation of capital underscores a burgeoning stability within the country’s external sector during the final quarter of the year.
Arif Hossain Khan, the Executive Director and Spokesperson for Bangladesh Bank, confirmed the updated figures during a formal press briefing. He noted that the central bank’s latest data reflects a consistent inflow of foreign currency, which has helped bolster the national exchequer. This growth is particularly encouraging as it suggests that the various fiscal measures implemented to curb unnecessary imports and encourage formal remittance channels are beginning to yield tangible results.
The central bank currently monitors reserves using two distinct methodologies: the traditional Gross Reserves calculation and the more stringent BPM6 (Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, 6th Edition) standard mandated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The BPM6 standard offers a more transparent and conservative view of the nation’s finances by excluding encumbered assets and short-term liabilities to reflect the actual “net” usable liquidity available for international transactions.
As of 22 December, the BPM6-compliant reserves stood at $28.04 billion (28,036.60 million), showing a marked improvement from the figures recorded just four days prior. On 18 December, the gross reserves were valued at $32.57 billion, while the BPM6-aligned reserves were approximately $27.88 billion. The swift increase over such a short duration highlights the efficiency of recent monetary interventions.
Central Bank Reserve Data Comparison (December 2025)
| Metric (USD Millions) | 18 December | 22 December | Net Increase |
| Gross Reserves | 32,573.31 | 32,720.12 | 146.81 |
| BPM6 Reserves | 27,875.70 | 28,036.60 | 160.90 |
This accretion of wealth is largely attributed to several key factors, including a robust flow of inward remittances from expatriate workers and an uptick in export earnings within the ready-made garment sector. By strictly adhering to the IMF’s BPM6 guidelines, Bangladesh Bank is moving towards international best practices in financial reporting. This transparency is vital for maintaining high levels of investor confidence and securing future credit facilities from global lenders.
The disparity between the two reported figures represents short-term liabilities and specific dedicated funds that are not immediately available for balance-of-payment support. As the central bank continues to navigate its international debt obligations while fostering an environment conducive to trade, this reserve growth acts as a vital safeguard for the national currency, the Taka. Analysts suggest that if this trend continues, the government will have greater flexibility in managing essential import costs for energy and raw materials in the coming months.