Card-based transactions in Bangladesh have surged by about 143% over the past five years, according to the latest report by Bangladesh Bank, reports UNB.
Data from the central bank shows that total card transactions stood at Tk 20,625 crore in January 2021. The figure rose sharply to Tk 50,044 crore by December 2025, reflecting the rapid expansion of cashless payments across the country.
The report also highlights a significant increase in the number of cards in circulation.
In January 2021, the total number of cards stood at 2.40 crore. By December 2025, the figure had climbed to more than 5.18 crore, marking a 115% growth during the period.
Currently, 61 banks and one non-bank financial institution (NBFI) provide card services in Bangladesh. Among them, 55 banks offer debit card facilities to their customers.
An analysis of consumer spending patterns shows that credit card holders spent Tk 3,930 crore within the country in December last year alone.
Of this amount, the largest share—Tk 1,740 crore—was spent at departmental stores.
The report also analysed spending by foreign cardholders in Bangladesh, showing that citizens of the United States accounted for the highest expenditure in the country.
Nationals from the United Kingdom, India, Mozambique, Australia, Canada and Saudi Arabia also made notable contributions to foreign card spending in Bangladesh.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
