Business sector pins hopes on election stability

Business leaders in Bangladesh expressed measured optimism about elections scheduled for early February 2026, following a year of economic challenges and uncertainty. High interest rates and weak demand forced more than 185 factories to close while unemployment reached 3.7 percent. Private sector credit growth fell to its lowest point in 22 years as entrepreneurs faced legal pressure and energy shortages that discouraged expansion plans.

The election announcement eased concerns among domestic and foreign investors who had delayed major decisions in the absence of political clarity. Dollar prices climbed to 122.50 taka from 121.89 over four days as import costs continued rising. Former World Bank economist Zahid Hussain said the scheduled vote should help restore confidence after prolonged stagnation, which has affected growth and employment across multiple sectors.