Sohel Parvez

Bangladesh’s private investment fell for the third consecutive year, reaching 22.03 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the fiscal year 2024-25, the lowest level in 11 years, amid a weak investment climate and macroeconomic stress.

TakaPay card, the first-ever national debit card, has failed to secure a significant foothold in the two years since its launch by the central bank, aimed at reducing dependency on global payment networks such as Visa and Mastercard.

Bangladesh has met the criteria to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, but serious gaps in trade readiness, macroeconomic stability and institutional strength could threaten a smooth transition in November 2026, according to a new independent assessment commissioned by the United Nations (UN).

Bangladesh has recorded a sharp jump in hybrid rice coverage as many farmers gradually move away from farming inbred and local varieties, looking for higher yields and profits.

The reciprocal trade deal signed by the interim government with the United States has raised questions regarding the economic sovereignty of Bangladesh, especially in decisions on trade, energy and security.

Over the past three and a half decades, Bangladesh has seen the entry of several dozen private airlines and helicopter operators, driven by the ambition to capture a share of the country’s growing passenger and cargo market.

The interim government’s net borrowing from the banking system rose almost fivefold in the first seven months of the current fiscal year 2025-26, as spending raced ahead of sluggish revenue collection.

Banking is no longer limited to brick-and-mortar branches. People are banking remotely using the internet more and more. Of late, mobile applications have come up as a new and inviting option, and a growing number of customers are using apps for banking in Bangladesh.