Bangladesh has seen an encouraging surge in remittances, with expatriates sending $1.97 billion in just the first 21 days of April 2025. This marks a remarkable 40% growth compared to the same period last year. The news, shared by Bangladesh Bank on Tuesday, brings a sense of optimism, especially as remittances play such a significant role in the nation’s economy.
Remittances Flowing Strong Even After Eid
Each year, Bangladesh witnesses a spike in remittances during Eid, as millions of expatriates send money back home to their loved ones. But this year, the flow hasn’t slowed down after Eid-ul-Fitr. In fact, the momentum has continued well into the month of April. It’s a testament to the ongoing financial support from Bangladeshi workers abroad, who, even after the holiday season, continue to send funds home. It’s not just about the money it’s about the commitment to family, stability, and building a better future for their loved ones back in Bangladesh.
According to the central bank, remittances in the first 21 days of April 2025 were $1.97 billion, up from $1.40 billion in the same period of April 2024. This marks an impressive growth of 40.7%. It’s a sign of how committed the expatriate community is to supporting their families and contributing to the national economy, even during challenging times.
A Record High in March
It’s been a strong year for remittances, with March 2025 setting a new record. Bangladesh received a staggering $3.29 billion that month, further strengthening its foreign exchange reserves. This growth is crucial for the country’s financial stability, providing the central bank with more flexibility to manage the nation’s currency and broader economy.
Year-on-Year Growth
The total remittance Bangladesh has received between July 2024 and April 21, 2025, has now reached $23.75 billion. When compared to $18.47 billion during the same period last year, it’s clear to see the trend are growing, and they’re playing a pivotal role in the country’s financial stability. This growth an increase of $5.28 billion gives the economy the cushion it needs to navigate global economic uncertainties and local challenges.
A Steady Climb in Foreign Reserves
Thanks to these ongoing remittance flows, Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves have remained steady, with the total gross reserves now around $27 billion. This healthy reserve is vital for maintaining the value of the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) and for ensuring the nation can handle any external shocks, such as changes in global commodity prices or economic fluctuations abroad.
Monthly Breakdown: Remittances Keep Coming In
Looking back over the last few months, the steady inflow of remittances is clear:
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March 2025: $3.29 billion
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February 2025: $2.53 billion
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January 2025: $2.19 billion
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December 2024: $2.64 billion
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November 2024: $2.20 billion
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October 2024: $2.39 billion
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September 2024: $2.40 billion
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August 2024: $2.22 billion
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July 2024: $1.91 billion
Each of these figures represents more than just numbers they represent families, dreams, and the hope that every remittance brings back home.
Read more: Government Borrowing in Bangladesh Jumps 60% in FY 25, Empowering Economic Growth
Why it Matter to Bangladesh’s Economy
For many families in Bangladesh, remittances are more than just extra cash. They’re the foundation on which families build their futures. From supporting children’s education and healthcare to helping with housing and business ventures, remittances empower families to improve their lives. In many ways, they’re also an anchor for the national economy, contributing significantly to GDP and stabilizing the local currency.
This year, the total remittance sent by expatriates from July 2024 to March 2025 stands at $21.77 billion, up from $17.07 billion during the same period in FY2023-24. The steady growth of remittance inflows reflects not only the ongoing contributions of expatriates but also the growing confidence in Bangladesh’s economic prospects.
As Bangladesh continues to see this impressive growth in remittances, the benefits are clear: the economy stays strong, foreign reserves are bolstered, and the people of Bangladesh—both at home and abroad—continue to demonstrate a sense of shared responsibility. The $1.97 billion sent in the first 21 days of April is just one example of how, together, Bangladeshis whether in Dhaka or New York, London, or Riyadh are shaping a stronger future for their country.
As we move forward, the hope is that this momentum will continue, creating a ripple effect that positively impacts everything from small businesses to large-scale infrastructure projects. Remittances are not just about money they’re about building the future of Bangladesh, one remittance at a time.
