The macroeconomic picture of Bangladesh has been positive. In 2006 GDP was $62bn (6.7% GDP growth), with the GDP growth forecast to continue above 5% in 2008 and 2009. Inflation increased to 9% in 2007 from 7% in 2006, but is forecast to fall to around 6% by 2009.
Bangladesh adopted a floating exchange-rate system in 2003. The Bangladesh Bank has ensured erratic movements in the taka have been prevented. The taka depreciated gradually against the US dollar in 2003-06. Owing to record levels of remittances and weakness of the US dollar, the taka showed little overall change in value against the US currency in 2007. This stability is expected to continue over the near future, although the taka is expected to depreciate slightly against the US dollar.
Official remittances from NRBs have averaged $4bn over the last 4 years, peaking at $4.9bn in 2007. Foreign exchange reserves have grown steadily reaching a peak of $5bn in 2007. Foreign Direct Investment has been generally increasing reaching approximately $800m in 2006.
