FROM PAGE B1

during Ramadan and peak before Eid.

According to central bank data, Bangladeshi migrants sent home $153 million in the last two days of February (27-28), indicating a surge in remittance inflows ahead of Ramadan.

“On the other hand, informal money transfer channels such as hundi and hawala have been disrupted since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government, leading to more remittances being sent through formal banking channels,” Rahman added.

In the last five and a half years, around 46 lakh Bangladeshis have gone abroad, contributing to the increase in remittance inflows. Initially, some struggled to find stable jobs, but many have now settled into their roles and are sending money home regularly.

According to central bank data, Bangladesh recorded its highest-ever monthly remittance inflow of $2.64 billion in December last year.

The second-highest monthly inflow was $2.59 billion in July 2020, while the third-highest was $2.54 billion in June 2024, the data showed. To further increase remittance inflows, Professor Rahman suggested focusing on sending skilled workers abroad and ensuring they are placed in suitable jobs.

“The government needs to identify which countries require specific skills and send trained workers accordingly,” he said.

For instance, Saudi Arabia is set to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034. To organise such a large event, it will make significant investments, creating job opportunities. Bangladesh should anticipate this demand, he added.

The economist also emphasised market diversification, suggesting that Bangladesh explore opportunities in countries such as South Korea and Japan.