Economics
Effective trade agreements: Why and how?
The most powerful trading nation is flouting the core principles of the multilateral trade arrangement that has been in place under the GATT and now under the World Trade Organization (WTO) for decades. The arbitrary and capricious tariff actions of the Trump Administration violate the core principle of Most Favored Nation (MFN).
ADB cuts Bangladesh's FY2026 GDP growth forecast to 3.7%
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has lowered Bangladesh's economic growth forecast, projecting the country's gross domestic product (GDP) to expand by 3.7 percent in fiscal year (FY) 2026, down from its previous estimate, reflecting a slower-than-expected economic recovery.
Country's economic growth slows to 3.49pc in FY 2024–25
The country’s economic growth slowed to 3.49% in the 2024–25 fiscal year, down from 4.22% in 2023–24, according to the final national accounts data released by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS).
Inclusive development and restoring human dignity
Every year on February 27th, World NGO Day is commemorated in various countries across the globe. This day has a brief yet significant history. World NGO Day serves as a global event for non-governmental development organizations that tirelessly strive for social advancement worldwide. It acknowledges the importance of NGOs and their collaborative role as social institutions in development. Presently, this occasion is celebrated with great enthusiasm in over 89 countries. However, it is regrettable that despite Bangladesh being a hub for NGOs, the day is not observed with the respect it deserves.
Cost audit being mandatory for state-owned companies
The government has taken steps to make cost audits mandatory for state-owned companies to enhance financial transparency and operational efficiency, citing long-standing inaction on cost audits has been a major reason for continued losses in many public enterprises.
How Bangladesh can learn from U.S. GENIUS Act
Remittances are a vital pillar of Bangladesh’s economy. In 2024-25 alone, the country received over USD30.00 billion from its diaspora, supporting millions of families and fueling domestic consumption. For many households, these funds are not just supplemental income—they cover essential expenses such as food, education, healthcare, and housing. Despite their importance, sending money home remains expensive, often costing between 5% and 7% per transaction, significantly above the global average. Slow transfers, high fees, and reliance on traditional banking corridors continue to limit the effectiveness of remittances, reducing their potential impact on the broader economy. Reducing costs while increasing remittance volume is no longer optional; it is a strategic necessity.
We have fallen into a debt trap: NBR chairman
“We have already fallen into a debt trap, and unless we accept this truth, it will not be possible to move forward,” said Md Abdur Rahman Khan, chairman of the National Board of Revenue.
Inflation rises to 8.29% in Nov
The country’s overall inflation saw a slight increase in November, reaching 8.29%, according to the latest data released by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS).
No dollar crisis in Bangladesh: BB Governor
Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H Mansur has said the country is not facing any dollar shortage.
The moral geography of livelihoods
In the daily landscape of Bangladesh’s economy, millions sustain the nation not merely through labor, but through moral discipline, integrity, and human endurance. Some open shop shutters at dawn, others pedal rickshaws through narrow lanes, while others work abroad sending remittances home.