Bangladesh's Forex Reserves Stay Above $36.5B Despite $1.48B ACU Payment

Dhaka, Bangladesh (BBN)- Bangladesh's foreign exchange reserves have once again demonstrated resilience. Despite settling US$1.48 billion in import payments to the Asian Clearing Union (ACU), gross reserves remain comfortably above $36.5 billion, underscoring the country's improving external sector position.

Key Highlights

📌 Gross reserves: US$36.52 billion (after ACU payment)

📌 BPM6 reserves: US$31.87 billion

📌 ACU payment: US$1.48 billion (down from US$1.51 billion previously)

📌 Bangladesh Bank purchased: US$6.42 billion from commercial banks since adopting the market-based exchange rate regime in July 2025.

Why are reserves improving?

The stronger reserve position is being supported by several factors:

• Record remittance inflows, which continue to strengthen foreign currency liquidity.
• Lower import payment obligations, reflecting subdued import demand and easing pressure on the external account.
• Higher external financing, including government borrowing from development partners.
• Bangladesh Bank's dollar purchases from commercial banks, which have helped rebuild reserves while maintaining exchange rate stability.

Why does it matter?

Maintaining reserves above US$36 billion even after a large ACU settlement signals a stronger external buffer. According to Bangladesh Bank, the current reserve level is sufficient to cover more than six months of imports, reinforcing confidence in the country's ability to manage external payment obligations.

Bottom Line

Bangladesh's external sector is showing signs of gradual strengthening. While challenges remain—particularly export performance and global uncertainties—the combination of strong remittance inflows, prudent reserve management, moderated imports and sustained external financing is helping rebuild the country's foreign exchange cushion.

BBN/SSR/AD