Jobs

In a landmark economic achievement, Bangladesh has recorded its highest ever annual remittance inflows in calendar year 2025, with workers abroad sending home a staggering US $32.82 billion – a level not seen before in the nation’s history.

Under the revised framework, foreign nationals granted permanent work quotas will face stricter documentation requirements when registering their workplace locations.

The decision to halt salary payments has drawn concern from civil society groups and international observers, who warn that continued economic contraction could fuel social unrest or increased migration out of the country.

International development partners, including the World Bank, have also entered the picture with initiatives designed to boost jobs and trade, although such efforts are longer-term in nature and their impact on immediate job creation is still unfolding.

While male participation in the labour market remained largely steady, dipping only slightly from 48.1 million to 48.0 million, female participation plunged more markedly – from 25.3 million in 2023 to 23.7 million in 2024.

The decision has drawn fire not only for protecting the accused, but also for potentially emboldening malicious actors.

According to the survey, 27.93 per cent of Bangladesh’s population now lives below the upper poverty line, a sharp rise from 18.7 per cent in 2022.

Nepal’s brick industry – valued at several million dollars and employing approximately 300,000 workers – thrives during its limited work season.