Inflation declines, but people feel no relief

The overall inflation in Bangladesh was reduced to 8.71 per cent in March 2026, down from 9.13 per cent in the previous month. Although this suggests some easing, in reality wages remain very low compared to the inflation rate, standing at less than 8 per cent. As a result, the relief is hardly felt in practical terms.

There are concerns that inflation may rise further if the Middle East conflict continues. While a revision of wages may offer a temporary solution to cope with the situation, it could also lead to currency devaluation. In many cases, supply remains inadequate relative to demand. Consequently, purchasing power may merely reflect the nominal value of money rather than its real worth.

At this juncture, it is imperative for the government to curb the illegal hoarding of essential commodities by syndicates, which often leads to artificial price hikes despite adequate availability. If the prices of daily necessities cannot be controlled, the decline in the inflation rate will remain a matter of rhetoric rather than reality.

Kawsik Azad Pronoy

A Banker