Dhaka, June 26 — After a period of recent turbulence, Bangladesh's economy is showing signs of improvement. Despite persistent high inflation, the country's foreign exchange reserves have stabilized, and the value of the Bangladeshi Taka has begun to recover. Additionally, the export sector is gaining positive momentum. Standard Chartered Bank’s Global Research Team forecasts that Bangladesh’s GDP growth could reach 5 percent in the upcoming fiscal year.
The bank hosted a Global Research Briefing on Bangladesh at a hotel in Dhaka yesterday, attended by representatives from both government and private sectors, along with bank clients.
Naser Ejaz Bijoy, CEO of Standard Chartered Bangladesh, stated, “Although there are indications of short-term fluctuations, our confidence lies in the long-term fundamentals. The current stability presents an opportunity for sustainable future growth. However, this requires well-planned policies, ongoing foreign assistance, and key structural reforms that will help maintain growth even amid global political uncertainties.”
Sourav Anand, an economist at Standard Chartered, added that various policy reforms implemented over the past year have strengthened Bangladesh’s economic fundamentals, positioning the country robustly despite global instability. “Growth indicators are improving, inflation is beginning to decline gradually, the dollar-to-Taka exchange rate remains stable, and foreign currency reserves are increasing,” he said.
The research highlights areas requiring continued monitoring, such as a slowdown in private sector credit growth and a still-high level of non-performing loans. Although foreign debt repayment remains under control, signs of declining revenue collection have emerged. These issues call for increased vigilance in the coming days. Ensuring long-term economic growth will also necessitate fiscal discipline alongside policy reforms, particularly in revenue generation and subsidy management.
Lutf Siddiqui, Chief Advisor’s International Affairs Envoy, who was the chief guest at the event, emphasized the urgent need to manage risks associated with foreign currency and interest rates amid current global volatility. He underscored the government’s commitment to simplifying business operations and increasing foreign investment. “To achieve sustainable and inclusive development while facing global economic challenges, all stakeholders must collaborate to implement sound policies,” he said.
This positive outlook from Standard Chartered underscores Bangladesh’s resilience and the importance of strategic reforms to sustain economic progress amid ongoing global uncertainties.
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