April 11, New Delhi – Bangladesh is facing increasing pressure from external factors as its trade deficit widened sharply to $16.91 billion during the first eight months of the 2025-26 fiscal year.
According to data released by the Bangladesh Bank, the deficit increased by more than $3 billion compared to the same period last year, driven by higher imports and declining export earnings.
Exports fell 2.6 per cent year-on-year to $29.26 billion, largely due to weak performance in the ready-made garments sector, a key pillar of Bangladesh's export economy.
In contrast, imports rose 5.6 per cent to $46.17 billion, fueled by elevated global prices of food, fuel, and essential commodities.
Analysts say the rising import bill underscores Bangladesh's dependence on external markets, leaving its economy vulnerable to global shocks and geopolitical uncertainties.
Photo: File/Representational