DHAKA, April 09, 2026 (BSS) – Bangladesh’s external sector in early 2026 showed strengthening phase with a significant improvement in foreign exchange reserves and robust remittance inflows, according to a report by the General Economics Division (GED) of the Planning Commission. The "Economic Update & Outlook (March 2026)" report, released today showed that a notable improvement in gross foreign exchange reserves, which climbed from US$ 33.19 billion in December 2025 to $35.11 billion in February 2026.  Under the BPM6 manual, reserves also showed a healthy upward trajectory, reaching $30.36 billion over the same period.  This accumulation has significantly enhanced external liquidity and provided much-needed short-term stability to the country's balance of payments. This notable improvement is attributed to strong inward remittances. According to the report, remittance inflows remained a key stabilizing factor, totaling $3,020.76 million in February, reflecting what experts describe as a robust structural improvement.  These inflows continue to play a critical role in offsetting higher import payments and supporting reserve accumulation. The report further noted that the Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER)-based exchange rate has adjusted downward, signaling modest gains in external price competitiveness. This adjustment is expected to support the export sector while the stable bilateral exchange rate against the US dollar reflects the success of recent stabilization efforts by the Bangladesh Bank. In a major boost for food security and consumer welfare, rice inflation has seen a sharp moderation. From a high of 14.24% in September 2025, rice inflation plummeted to just 2.39% in February 2026.  Specifically, coarse rice—a staple for many—registered negative inflation, while medium and fine varieties also saw substantial price eases,. This downward trend is supported by improved supply conditions, seasonal harvests, and effective public stock releases. On the domestic front, revenue mobilization continues to show steady year-on-year progress.  Total revenue reached Taka 30,559 crore in February 2026, marking an 8.15% increase compared to the same month last year.  Furthermore, February data revealed a sharp increase in both expenditure and utilization rates for the Revised Annual Development Programme (RADP).  This concentrated acceleration of spending indicates that executing agencies are intensifying efforts to implement key infrastructure and development projects across the country. The banking sector maintains a steady path, with deposit mobilization remaining strong at a year-on-year growth rate of 10.44%.  This suggests sustained public confidence and a stable environment for savings.  In the trade sector, recent adjustments in the Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER) have signaled modest gains in external price competitiveness. These adjustments are expected to support Bangladeshi exporters in international markets despite ongoing global economic fluctuations.  While global energy constraints persist, the report mentioned that the Government of Bangladesh is pursuing a cautious and proactive policy framework to maintain this positive momentum and ensure long-term macroeconomic stability.