Forex Reserves at $30b, IMF Figure Lower at $24.99b

Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves currently stand at $30 billion, according to the latest data released by the central bank.

However, when measured using the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual (BPM6) methodology, the reserves amount to $24.99 billion.

The difference arises because the IMF’s BPM6 framework excludes certain assets and liabilities that are included in the traditional calculation method used by the central bank. This approach offers a more standardized and internationally comparable measure of reserves.

The dual reporting reflects Bangladesh’s commitment to transparency and alignment with global accounting standards, especially amid efforts to maintain economic stability and meet conditions under IMF programs.

Foreign exchange reserves are a critical indicator of a country’s financial health, impacting exchange rate stability, import capacity, and investor confidence. Despite challenges such as rising imports and fluctuating remittance flows, Bangladesh continues to maintain substantial reserves to support its economy.