DHAKA, April 22, 2026 — Bangladesh’s government has borrowed approximately Tk 73,000 crore (about $6.7 billion) from the domestic banking sector over the past two months, a senior government adviser said, raising concerns about potential inflationary pressure and fiscal strain.
Dr. Jahed Ur Rahman, Information and Broadcasting Adviser to the Prime Minister, told reporters on Tuesday that while the increased borrowing could exert some pressure on the economy and affect citizens, the situation remains under control and has not reached a “red zone.”
“The government is closely monitoring macroeconomic indicators. At this stage, the situation is manageable,” he said during a media briefing at the Secretariat in Dhaka.
The borrowing comes at a time when Bangladesh is navigating external economic headwinds, including volatility in global energy markets and rising import costs. Economists have previously cautioned that excessive reliance on bank financing could crowd out private sector credit and fuel inflation.
Rahman, however, said the borrowed funds are being directed toward public welfare and development activities.
On energy security, he dismissed concerns over supply shortages, stating that Bangladesh’s fuel reserves remain stable. As of April 19, the country held 122,633 metric tons of diesel in stock, which he said is sufficient to meet current demand.
The real challenge is not supply, but rising demand and a degree of public anxiety,” he noted.
He acknowledged that fluctuations in international fuel prices are impacting the domestic market, but said the government is attempting to mitigate the effects on consumers through policy measures.
“The global energy market is unstable, and Bangladesh is not immune. Still, we are working to ensure that the burden on ordinary citizens is minimized,” he added.
In a separate announcement, Rahman said Bangladesh is planning a regional cultural initiative to celebrate the Bengali New Year, or Pahela Baishakh, in coordination with Myanmar, Cambodia, and parts of southern India. Authorities aim to finalize a comprehensive plan ahead of next year’s festivities, with month-long cultural programs under consideration.
