Dhaka, Nov 15 (V7N)- The Bangladeshi taka has depreciated by 60 per cent against the US dollar over the past 10 years, contributing to rising inflation, Bangladesh Bank Governor Md Mostaqur Rahman has said.
He made the remarks at the Fifth Bangladesh Economic Conference 2026, held at a hotel in the capital on Saturday (November 14).
The conference focused on Bangladesh's macroeconomic stability, investment expansion and energy security strategies amid global geopolitical conflicts, volatility in energy markets and uncertainty in supply chains.
The theme of the event was 'Economic Roadmap in Global Uncertainty: Macroeconomic, Investment and Energy Security Strategies'.
Addressing the conference, the governor said the depreciation of the taka was one of the factors behind the increase in inflation.
"If commercial banks are asked, it is possible to supply dollars to importers at a lower price," he said.
He also identified high interest rates as one of the reasons for sluggish private-sector credit growth and indicated that the policy interest rate could be reduced in the future.
The governor urged banks to take necessary steps to revive closed factories.
Energy shortages were also highlighted as a major obstacle to investment alongside financing constraints.
Speaking at the event, Energy Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud said there was currently no threat of gas or electricity shortages in the country. He added that preparations were also under way to ensure adequate supplies next year.
END/SMA/AJ
