Remittance Inflow Soars 68.9% to $1.46 Billion in Jan

Bangladesh’s remittance inflow has witnessed a remarkable surge, rising 68.9 percent year-on-year to reach $1,460 million in the first 12 days of January, according to the latest data from Bangladesh Bank. This significant growth reflects the resilience of expatriate workers and the continued reliance of the country on overseas remittances.

During the same period last year, Bangladesh had received $864 million in remittances, highlighting a sharp increase in overseas money transfers over a year.

For the current fiscal year, from July to January 12, 2026, expatriates have sent a total of $17,725 million, compared to $14,641 million during the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. This upward trend indicates strong support from the Bangladeshi diaspora and a growing contribution of remittances to the national economy.

Experts say several factors are contributing to this surge. One major reason is the strengthening of the US dollar against the Bangladeshi taka, which has increased the value of remittances when converted into local currency. Additionally, new banking incentives and easier digital channels for transferring money have encouraged expatriates to send funds through formal banking systems rather than informal methods.

Remittances play a critical role in Bangladesh’s economy, helping to support household consumption, education, healthcare, and small businesses. They also contribute significantly to the country’s foreign exchange reserves, which in turn stabilises the exchange rate and strengthens economic growth.

Top sending countries include the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. Analysts note that a growing number of skilled and semi-skilled workers are employed abroad, which has widened the flow of remittances.

Bangladesh Bank officials said the upward trend is expected to continue if global economic conditions remain favourable and if expatriates continue to rely on formal channels for transferring money. Economists also emphasised that sustaining this growth could help the country manage trade deficits and bolster economic stability.

The early January surge has raised optimism among policymakers, who view remittances not just as a source of foreign exchange but also as a lifeline for millions of households across Bangladesh.