Bangladesh has witnessed a significant increase in remittances sent by its expatriate workforce. In the first three days of January 2026 alone, the country received $2.88 billion (approximately ৳351.36 crore) in remittances. This data was confirmed by Bangladesh Bank spokesperson Arif Hossain Khan on 4 January 2026. Compared with the same period last year, this represents a 37.1% growth, underscoring the critical role of expatriate earnings in supporting the national economy.
A comparative overview of remittance inflows for the first three days of January over the past two years is presented below:
| Period | Remittances (USD) | Remittances (BDT, crore) | Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–3 Jan 2025 | 2.10 billion | 256.2 | – |
| 1–3 Jan 2026 | 2.88 billion | 351.36 | 37.1% |
In addition, from 1 July 2025 to 3 January 2026, Bangladesh received a cumulative $16.553 billion (around ৳2,018.01 crore) in remittances, compared with $13.987 billion (approximately ৳1,705.91 crore) during the same period in the previous year. This reflects a 25.4% year-on-year increase, highlighting the sustained inflow of foreign earnings.
| Period | Remittances (USD) | Remittances (BDT, crore) | Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 July 2024–3 Jan 2025 | 13.987 billion | 1,705.91 | – |
| 1 July 2025–3 Jan 2026 | 16.553 billion | 2,018.01 | 25.4% |
Analysts attribute this growth primarily to continued remittances from Bangladeshi workers in the Middle East, Europe, and North America. The increasing demand to support family livelihoods and personal investments is motivating expatriates to send more funds home.
According to Bangladesh Bank, sustained growth in remittances plays a pivotal role in national economic stability. It helps control inflation, strengthen foreign currency reserves, and maintain macroeconomic stability, especially amid global economic uncertainty.
Economists emphasise that to maintain this growth, it is essential to implement financial literacy programmes for expatriates and expand secure and cost-effective remittance channels. As the national economy becomes increasingly reliant on remittance inflows, effective utilisation of these funds is not only crucial for household welfare but also for long-term national development.