ADB Commits US$ 5 Billion To Support Bangladesh’s Growth
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has pledged US$ 5 billion over the next five years to support Bangladesh’s economic growth and resilience, following talks between ADB President Masato Kanda and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in Dhaka.
During the visit, ADB signed US$ 1.4 billion in loans under its 2026 annual commitment programme and increased immediate support by US$ 250 million to help Bangladesh address financing pressures linked to the economic fallout from the Middle East conflict.
The additional funding aims to ease rising import costs for fuel, liquefied natural gas, fertilisers and shipping, as Bangladesh continues to face inflationary pressures and banking sector challenges.
ADB also unveiled the Integrated Growth Network Development Initiative, a five-year programme expected to channel around $1 billion annually into infrastructure, job creation, regional connectivity and balanced economic development.
As part of its expanded engagement, ADB plans to raise its annual sovereign commitments to Bangladesh by 20 per cent, from US$ 2 billion to US$ 2.4 billion over the medium term.
The bank will also provide US$ 2 million in technical assistance to support Bangladesh’s medium-term development framework and its transition from least developed country status.
Kanda said ADB remains committed to helping Bangladesh strengthen economic stability, diversify growth drivers and build a more resilient economy. Discussions with Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury focused on reform priorities, external financing needs and strategies to attract greater private investment.
