FDI surges over 200% in Q3 despite global uncertainty

Infographic: TBS

Bangladesh saw a robust rise in net Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) during the third quarter of 2025, reflecting growing investor confidence despite global economic uncertainties. 

According to Bangladesh Bank data, net FDI inflow for July–September reached $315.09 million, marking a 202% year-on-year increase from $104.33 million in the same period of 2024. 

Cumulative net FDI for January–September 2025 stood at $1.41 billion, up 80% from $780 million during the corresponding period of the previous year.

All major components of FDI showed significant improvement in Q3. 

Equity investment rose to $101.12 million from $76.79 million a year earlier, while reinvested earnings jumped nearly threefold to $211.47 million from $72.90 million. Intra-company loans also reversed course, moving from a negative $45.36 million to a positive $2.49 million.

The strong Q3 performance built on a solid H1 showing, when net FDI in April–June reached $303.27 million, up 11.4% from $272.22 million in the same quarter of 2024. 

Overall, net FDI in the first half of 2025 rose more than 61% compared to H1 2024.

Ashik Chowdhury, executive chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida), said, "Bida's core focus is improving the business climate and building a credible investment pipeline. It is encouraging to see these pipelines convert into actual inflows.

"While Q4 may see some moderation ahead of elections, we expect a rebound afterward, supported by a strong investment pipeline." 

He added that Bida's dedicated investment pipeline for 2025 has already exceeded $1.5 billion, in addition to traditional registered proposals, signaling continued optimism among investors.