Inflation rose to 8.29 percent in November, according to new figures from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS). Food inflation stood at 7.36 percent, while non-food inflation reached 9.08 percent, marking the second consecutive month of rising food prices.
Bangladesh has been grappling with high inflation for the past three years. The average inflation rate for the 2024–25 fiscal year was 10.03 percent, placing sustained pressure on household budgets.
Economists often describe inflation as a hidden tax. When incomes fail to rise in line with prices, families are forced to borrow or cut spending on essentials such as food, clothing, and transportation. As a result, real incomes decline and financial hardship increases for ordinary citizens.
In November, the national wage growth rate was 8.04 percent, BBS reported—still lower than the inflation rate. This indicates that wage earners are losing purchasing power despite nominal increases in income.
A reduction in the inflation rate does not imply falling prices; it only means that prices are rising more slowly. For example, if goods and services worth 100 taka in November 2024 cost 108 taka 29 paisa in November 2025, the increase reflects the year’s 8.29 percent inflation rate.
Controlling inflation has remained one of the economy’s major challenges for two to three years. Since taking office, the interim government has raised interest rates to curb demand, while the National Board of Revenue has reduced customs duties and taxes on essential items such as edible oil, potatoes, onions, and eggs. Efforts continue to ensure steady imports and a stable supply of daily necessities in the market.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
