Dhaka, Bangladesh – Bangladesh has received an estimated $2.83 billion in remittances from overseas workers during the first 23 days of March, underscoring the continued strength of inflows amid the festive season. According to the latest figures from Bangladesh Bank, $392 million was sent home between 16 and 23 March, contributing to the cumulative total of $2.828 billion from 1 to 23 March.
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Year-on-Year Growth
The remittance inflow for March 2026 shows a notable increase compared with the same period in 2025, when $2.633 billion was recorded. This represents an approximate 7.4% growth year-on-year. Analysts attribute the surge to seasonal factors, as migrant workers typically remit extra funds to cover household expenses during Eid celebrations, a key driver of increased inflows.
| Period | Remittance Inflow (USD) | Year-on-Year Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| 1–23 March 2026 | 2,828,000,000 | +7.4% from $2,633,000,000 in 2025 |
| 16–23 March 2026 | 392,000,000 | Part of monthly inflow |
| 1 July 2025 – 23 March 2026 (FY 2025–26) | 25,281,000,000 | +19.7% from $21,123,000,000 in FY 2024–25 |
Fiscal Year Performance
Remittances have maintained a strong trajectory in the 2025–26 fiscal year. From July 2025 to 23 March 2026, Bangladesh received $25.28 billion, compared with $21.12 billion in the same period the previous year, marking a 19.7% increase. This consistent growth highlights the resilience of remittance flows, even amid global economic uncertainties.
Drivers of Growth
Experts identify several factors supporting this positive trend:
- Government initiatives promoting remittances through formal banking channels.
- Incentives for legal transfers, reducing reliance on informal methods such as hundi.
- Rising wages for Bangladeshi migrant workers in the Middle East, Europe, and the United States.
Economists note that, alongside exports, remittances are one of the country’s primary sources of foreign currency. The recent inflows have helped stabilise foreign exchange reserves, bolstering economic resilience and sustaining household incomes nationwide.
Recommendations for Sustained Growth
While current performance is strong, analysts emphasise the need for long-term strategies to maintain and grow remittances:
- Developing a skilled workforce to access higher-paying international markets.
- Diversifying overseas labour destinations to reduce dependence on specific regions.
- Simplifying formal remittance channels, making transfers more convenient and cost-effective.
Implementing these measures could further strengthen Bangladesh’s remittance inflows, ensuring continued economic stability and supporting families who rely on migrant earnings.