Rising prices hurt the poor, forcing cuts to necessities and increasing poverty in Bangladesh.
The caution comes as consumer prices, despite easing in the last two months, have stayed over 9 percent for the 24th month in a row
Inflation declined to 9.32% from January's 9.94%
Bangladesh inflation soared (5.86 percent to 11.38 percent in 2022-2024), driven by global shocks and food prices.
In its latest report released today, the organisation projected inflation will stabilise between 8.5% and 9.5% by June but fall to 6-7% by December
Ministers and members of parliament of the previous government relentlessly blamed “syndicates” for increasing the prices of chicken, eggs and other foods.
Inflation in Bangladesh eased for the second consecutive month in January, driven by stable food prices due mainly to an abundant supply of winter vegetables to the local market.
Bangladesh's high inflation is straining households financially and mentally. Financial stress disrupts mental balance, leading to burnout, impaired relationships, and physical symptoms. Coping strategies include exercise, budgeting, support systems, reframing thoughts, and fostering mental resilience.
Arrival of winter vegetables contributes to the decline
Bangladesh Bank Governor Ahsan H Mansur yesterday said it would be possible to lower the policy rates within about six months if inflationary pressure in the country is reduced to a tolerable level.
Inflationary pressure is being felt severely in the face of wage growth declines.
It is the highest in at least a decade
The problems are economic, social and political in nature.
Inflation, which erodes the purchasing power for consumers as well as businesses, happens in two ways.
The latest inflation rate is the highest at least since 1984
The annual average price spike in Bangladesh surged to its highest level in 12 years in the just-concluded fiscal year despite easing in June, reflecting the persistent erosion of real income and the deterioration of the living standards of low-income groups.
Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics releases data today
Finance Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali yesterday expressed hope that the government would be able to curb high inflation on the back of budgetary measures and the central bank’s steps.
The proposed national budget for fiscal 2024-25 lacks concrete measures for addressing the current economic concerns, such as runaway inflation and depleting foreign exchange reserves, the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) said yesterday.
