Bangladesh’s expatriate community continues to play an indispensable role in sustaining the nation’s economic resilience. The remittances they send back home each year remain a key pillar underpinning the country’s financial stability, driving growth and supporting countless households. This December, preliminary data indicate that this vital flow of funds is set to maintain its robust momentum, with remittances potentially exceeding $3 billion, providing a significant boost to the country’s foreign currency reserves.
According to Arif Hossain Khan, Executive Director and spokesperson of Bangladesh Bank, the total remittance received between 1 and 20 December reached $2.1721 billion. At the current exchange rate of BDT 122 per US dollar, this amount translates to approximately BDT 26,500 crore, reflecting a substantial infusion of foreign currency into the national economy.
Banking sector analysts remain optimistic that if this trend continues, total remittances for December could surpass the $3 billion threshold. Such an outcome would not only underscore the unwavering support of the expatriate workforce but also reinforce the stability of Bangladesh’s foreign exchange market, offering a firm foundation for economic steadiness.
Comparing with the same period last year, remittance inflows have risen from $1.983 billion to $2.1721 billion, marking a 9.5 per cent increase. This steady upward trajectory reflects both the productivity of Bangladeshi workers abroad and the sustained demand for their skills in international markets.
Looking at the broader fiscal year, from July to 20 December, Bangladesh has received $15.21 billion in remittances, up from $13.12 billion in the same period last year—an impressive 16 per cent rise. This clearly demonstrates the growing contribution of overseas workers to the national economy.
Last month, November, also saw a strong inflow of remittances, with $2.8895 billion sent home, equivalent to roughly BDT 35,252 crore. Analysts suggest that maintaining this momentum through the year’s end will further solidify Bangladesh’s economic stability and enhance the strategic importance of remittances in bolstering foreign currency reserves.
The robust inflow of funds towards the end of the year serves as a tangible symbol of economic confidence, highlighting the indispensable role of Bangladeshi expatriates in supporting national growth. Their contributions remain a cornerstone of the country’s financial health, providing both stability and optimism as Bangladesh moves into the new year.