Bangladesh has recorded a notable improvement in remittance inflows during the first four days of May, signalling continued resilience in expatriate earnings and external sector stability. According to the latest data released by Bangladesh Bank, the country received US$456 million in remittances over this short period. This translates to an average daily inflow of approximately US$114 million, which is considered a robust indicator of sustained growth in foreign income.
A spokesperson for the central bank, Arif Hossain Khan, noted that this figure represents a significant year-on-year increase. During the same period last year, remittance inflows stood at US$312 million. The sharp rise reflects growing confidence in formal banking channels and improved mechanisms for overseas fund transfers.
From July to 4 May of the current fiscal year, total remittance inflows reached approximately US$29.79 billion. This marks an increase of nearly 19.90 per cent compared with the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. Economists argue that this upward trend is playing a crucial role in stabilising foreign exchange reserves and easing pressure on the country’s import payments.
A month-wise overview of recent remittance performance further illustrates the sustained strength of inflows:
| Period | Remittance Inflow (US$) |
|---|---|
| May (first 4 days) | 456 million |
| April | 3.1273 billion |
| March | 3.7550 billion |
| February | 3.0207 billion (approx.) |
| January | 3.1709 billion |
| December | 3.2267 billion |
| November | 2.8895 billion |
March stood out as a particularly strong month, recording one of the highest monthly inflows in recent history. Although monthly fluctuations remain evident, the overall trajectory continues to point upward.
Economists attribute this growth to several key factors. Increased overseas employment opportunities, particularly in Middle Eastern labour markets, have contributed significantly. In addition, stricter monitoring of informal money transfer systems and enhanced incentives for legal remittance channels have encouraged expatriates to use formal banking routes more frequently. Government policies offering cash incentives on remitted funds have also strengthened this shift.
Furthermore, relative stability in major labour destination countries, along with renewed job creation abroad, has supported sustained income flows from migrant workers. Banking sector stakeholders suggest that if the current momentum continues, remittance inflows could reach a new record by the end of the fiscal year.
Overall, the steady rise in remittances is providing a vital cushion for Bangladesh’s external sector, helping to stabilise foreign reserves and partially offsetting the pressure of rising import costs. The trend is widely viewed as a key pillar supporting macroeconomic resilience in the months ahead.