Bangladesh Bank reported that remittance inflows rose sharply in January 2026, reaching USD 3.17 billion, a 45.10 percent increase compared to USD 2.185 billion in January 2025. Sector insiders attributed the surge to funds sent ahead of the upcoming national election and Ramadan, as many candidates and families transferred money from abroad. The data was published in the central bank’s latest report.

From July 2025 to January 2026, total remittances amounted to USD 19.43 billion, up 21.80 percent from the same period of the previous fiscal year. Bankers explained that the decline in money laundering and increased use of formal channels have boosted remittance inflows, improving dollar supply and strengthening foreign exchange reserves. Bangladesh Bank has purchased USD 3.93 billion since July to maintain market balance.

As of January 29, 2026, the country’s foreign exchange reserves stood at USD 33.18 billion, or USD 28.68 billion under BPM-6 standards. The central bank noted that higher remittance inflows and dollar purchases have contributed to the recent rise in reserves.