The forecast was made in the IMF's October 2026 ‘World Economic Outlook’ report. It said that in 2026 Bangladesh's growth could be 3.6 percent, slightly higher than 3.5 percent in 2025.
According to the report, average inflation may fall to 8.7 percent in 2026. However, in 2027 it may rise again to 10.9 percent. As a result, there is a risk of increased expenditure on essentials including food, transport, housing, and healthcare.
The IMF also forecast that in 2027 Bangladesh's current account deficit may reach 2.1 percent of GDP. If fuel and food prices rise in the international market, pressure on import costs, production costs, and foreign transactions may increase.
To tackle economic risks, the organization emphasized targeted support for poor and vulnerable populations, increasing government revenue, investment in alternative fuel sources, and diversification of export products.
